Suzuki launches the Ciaz sedan

FROM left, Norminio Mojica, managing director of Suzuki Philippines; Minoru Amano, division general manager of Suzuki Motor Corp.; Kennosuke Ouchi, Asean-Oceania marketing group of Suzuki Motor Corp., and Shuzo Hoshikura, general manager of Suzuki Philippines. Eugene Araneta

Suzuki Philippines has officially launched the Ciaz subcompact sedan. Suzuki is positioning the Ciaz as a sensible and innovative car for the Asian market.

The new Ciaz is available in three variants: the GL manual transmission, GL automatic transmission and the premium GLX.

The name Ciaz stands for “City from A to Z,” describing the intended environment for the new subcompact.

Ciaz reportedly offers best-in-class fuel efficiency.

The exterior design is meant to be sporty and elegant, while the interior aims to provide comfortable cabin space.

The Ciaz shares with the larger Ertiga MPV its four-speed automatic transmission, designed for a good balance between fuel efficiency and driving performance. Aerodynamic body panels minimize air resistance to promote fuel efficiency.

Ciaz features an available integrated audio unit compatible with Android phones. The touch-screen device comes with Bluetooth and USB connectivity for smartphones and tablets. The system is even preloaded with applications such as YouTube, Gmail, Facebook and the ever-useful Waze.

The steering wheel includes remote switches for the audio and infotainment systems. The Ciaz features a keyless push-start system as well.

The Ciaz promises easy entry and exit courtesy of its big door openings and sufficient rear legroom, shoulder room and headroom.

The trunk is a spacious 495 liters with electromagnetic latch and trunk light.

Safety is also a primary concern of the Ciaz, with its impact protection system. It features available ABS brakes with EBD.

Ciaz comes in three variants: the Ciaz GL Manual Transmission at P738,000; the Ciaz GL Automatic Transmission at P773,000; and the Ciaz GLX at P888,000.

Suzuki invited motoring media to drive the Ciaz for a prelaunch event. The drive took a 235-km route to and from Anilao, Batangas, with stopovers at the Suzuki Auto Sucat, Total Service Station Sucat, Nuvali, Tagaytay, and the Aiyanar Beach and Dive Resort in Batangas.

The drive was designed to show the Ciaz’s capabilities in stop-and-go city traffic, highway driving and climbing mountain passes.

For more information on the Suzuki Ciaz, visit suzuki.com.ph/auto, like www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPH, or follow on Twitter at @SuzukiAutoPH and Instagram at @suzukiautoph.