Suzuki​

Suzuki motorcycles in India start at a price of Rs 81,700, with the Access 125 being the most affordable model. On the other end of the spectrum, the premium Suzuki Hayabusa is priced at Rs 17.70 lakh, making it the costliest offering from the brand. Suzuki’s lineup in India includes a mix of scooters, sportbikes, adventure tourers, and superbikes, catering to a diverse audience. With a legacy spanning from the days of the Shogun and Samurai to modern icons like the Gixxer and Hayabusa, Suzuki has garnered a loyal fan base in India since its entry into the market in the 1980s.

Suzuki’s Journey in India: From Collaboration to Independence

Like other major Japanese manufacturers such as Honda and Yamaha, Suzuki saw immense potential in India’s rapidly growing two-wheeler market during the 1980s. At the time, most foreign brands entered India through joint ventures, and Suzuki followed suit by collaborating with TVS in 1982. This partnership allowed Suzuki to provide technical expertise while TVS gained access to the brand’s advanced engineering.

The collaboration led to the launch of popular two-stroke motorcycles like the Suzuki Shogun and Samurai in the 1990s. These bikes, known for their lightweight build and quick acceleration, were favorites among enthusiasts, standing tall alongside the legendary Yamaha RX100. Notably, Suzuki introduced several firsts in India, including the Shogun as the first bike to feature a catalytic converter and the Shaolin as the first motorcycle with a 5-speed transmission.

However, by 2001, the partnership ended due to differing business perspectives, as well as Suzuki’s limited presence in the four-stroke segment.

Suzuki’s Solo Venture in India

In 2006, Suzuki made a comeback as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Suzuki Japan. Initially, it ventured into the 125cc segment with models like the Heat and Zeus, followed by the GS150R in the 150cc segment in 2008. Despite introducing unique features like a sixth gear and a gear position indicator, these motorcycles struggled to make a significant impact in the Indian market.

On the other hand, Suzuki’s scooter segment witnessed remarkable success. The launch of the Access 125 in 2007 revolutionized the 125cc scooter category, much like how the Honda Activa dominated the 110cc segment. With a refined engine, comfortable ride quality, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Access 125 quickly became the best-selling scooter in its category—a title it continues to hold today.

Suzuki also experimented in the premium segment with the Inazuma in 2014, a quarter-liter bike known for its smooth engine and highway cruising abilities. However, its conservative styling and steep price tag of Rs 3.1 lakh (ex-showroom) limited its success, even after a drastic price reduction of Rs 1 lakh.

The Gixxer Era: Suzuki’s Game-Changer

Suzuki’s fortune turned around with the launch of the Gixxer in 2014. Unlike previous models, the Gixxer was developed specifically for India, featuring a muscular yet elegant design, a well-balanced chassis, and a refined engine. The bike quickly became a benchmark in its segment, leading to the launch of its faired sibling, the Gixxer SF. For years, the Gixxer SF remained the most affordable fully-faired motorcycle in India.

In the premium segment, Suzuki’s big bikes such as the GSX-R1000R, GSX-S1000, and Intruder M1800R found a niche audience. However, no bike gained as much recognition as the Hayabusa, which achieved legendary status in India after being featured in the Bollywood blockbuster Dhoom (2004). Recognizing its popularity, Suzuki started local assembly of the Hayabusa in 2016, making it significantly more affordable. The Hayabusa continues to be one of the most competitively priced superbikes in India today.

Suzuki also expanded its CKD lineup with the GSX-S750, followed by the off-road-oriented V-Strom 650, catering to adventure touring enthusiasts.

Recent Developments & Future Prospects

After the discontinuation of the Inazuma, Suzuki made a strong comeback in the 250cc segment with the launch of the Gixxer SF 250. This was followed by updates to the Gixxer SF and the introduction of a new-generation Gixxer. Suzuki has also tapped into the premium 125cc scooter space with the Burgman Street, though it has yet to match the popularity of the Access 125.

Looking ahead, Suzuki is expected to launch new models, including a larger-capacity scooter and possibly an Intruder 250. With increasing emphasis on electric mobility, Suzuki is also developing an electric vehicle, though details on whether it will be a motorcycle or scooter remain under wraps. The company is likely to showcase EV concepts at the upcoming Auto Expo.

As the Indian market evolves, Suzuki continues to adapt, ensuring that its lineup remains competitive across different segments. Whether it’s expanding its commuter portfolio or strengthening its presence in the premium market, Suzuki’s journey in India is far from over—exciting times lie ahead!