Suzuki Plans 20 New Models in Three Years

Minicar specialist Suzuki Motor Corp. plans to move upmarket in Japan with 20 new models by fiscal 2019 15 of them larger and more profitable subcompact vehicles.

The shift is intended to move Suzuki's mix of subcompacts from today's 11% of its domestic sales to about 30%. Most of the larger cars will be produced at the company's factory in Sagara in the Shizuoka Prefecture, according to The Nikkei.

The new wave of subcompacts will use a lighter, simplified chassis and feature Suzuki's eNe Charge regenerative braking system to hike fuel efficiency. The company also is consolidating smaller dealerships into larger multi-vehicle stores that will emphasize the company's larger models.