Automotive News reports that Suzuki may introduce a hybrid version of the Grand Vitara SUV to the United States by 2010.


Suzuki hasn’t decided which model should have a hybrid powertrain – a gasoline engine plus electric motor. But the automaker suggests the SUV would be a good choice, AN reported.


A hybrid system should be on “our own existing model,” says Suzuki President Hiroshi Tsuda. “Given that, there could be no other vehicles than the Grand Vitara.”


He declined to offer details, the report added.


The newspaper noted that the Grand Vitara is a logical candidate as a redesigned version of the vehicle is about to be rolled out in North America ( with an annual sales target of 50,000 units).
 
Globally, Suzuki wants to sell 180,000 units a year – all built at the same plant in Japan, Automotive News said.

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