The New Suzuki 1.5 Litre Ignis Sport - From The Rally Track To The Road

An exciting new, high performance version of the 3-door Suzuki Ignis - The Ignis Sport - developed as a direct result of Suzuki's entry in the Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) with the Ignis Super 1600 JWRC car, is to become available in the UK later in 2003.

Engineered to provide exhilarating performance at a realistic and competitive price the Ignis Sport will feature an all new 1.5 litre 16-valve, VVT engine, a specially designed sports exhaust system, a close ratio 5-speed manual gearbox and sports tuned suspension.

Bumpers, flared wheel arches, a roof mounted rear spoiler, sculptured lower body panels and white 15 inch aluminium alloy wheels combine to give the Ignis Sport strong and substantial looks, similar to those of the rally cars themselves. Extensive wind tunnel testing has ensured that this styling aids overall performance and is not merely a cosmetic addition.

The sporting theme continues on the inside with front bucket seats specially developed by Recaro for Suzuki, crisp white instrument gauges with black markings back lit by blue LED lighting, carbon-fibre pattern instrument panel trim, a high quality leather Suzuki sport steering wheel and leather gear lever.

High Performance Engine

Specially developed for the Ignis Sport and based on the engines used in the Super 1600 JWRC cars, the all new 1.5 litre, VVT engine - with a maximum power output of 107 bhp [80 kW] at 6,500 rpm and peak torque of 103.2 lbs ft [140 Nm] @ 4,000 rpm - is particularly responsive at mid-range speeds without detracting from the car's overall abilities.

The New Suzuki 1.5 Litre Ignis Sport

Overall performance and engine efficiency is further enhanced by a specially designed sports exhaust system that produces a crisp, rich and distinctive sound.

Sports Handling

The suspension has been tuned to give a tight, precise and sporting feel to the driving experience.

Combined with a centre of gravity almost 2 inches lower than the standard production model and the use of 185/55R15 tyres on the alloy wheels this system ensures that levels of grip and handling match the performance of the engine whilst ventilated disc brakes all round ensure that stopping power is equally as effective.

The Ignis Sport will be available in limited quantities from UK Suzuki dealers during the second half of 2003. Full details of prices and the final specification for this market will be announced shortly before launch.

Suzuki Support

The new 1.5-litre 3-door Ignis Sport will be covered by Suzuki Shield, a 3 year / 60,000 mile new vehicle warranty [whichever comes first], by Suzuki Assistance, providing 24 hour roadside assistance, recovery and associated services for 3 years and by a 12 year perforation warranty.