UK sales of Suzuki cars, 4x4s and commercial vehicles reached a new all-time high of 34,160 in 2002.

This was seven per cent ahead of the total figure for Suzuki sales in 2001, itself another all-time record breaking year.

By the year end the company had exceeded all its full year sales targets and - reflecting continued growth in market demand for Wagon R+, Ignis and Liana and the sustained popularity of the Jimny and Grand Vitara ranges - increased its share of the new car market to 1.22 per cent.

The achievements consolidate Suzuki’s impressive growth in 2001 (the previous best ever year when sales rose to 31,947). They include:

• Total sales UP by 2,200 (7 per cent) on the record set in 2001.

• Annual 4x4 sales reach 12,000 units for the first time ever.

• Total Suzuki share of the passenger car market (including ‘off road cars’ as defined by SMMT) now exceeds 1.2 per cent.

• Total passenger car sales (excluding 4x4s) UP by 1,400 units (8 per cent).

• Total sales of the Carry van and pick-up UP by 35 per cent.

This latest success emphasises Suzuki’s growing strengths.