18 July 2001: The Suzuki Liana has now arrived in Ireland and significantly extends the range of modern Suzuki cars in this market.

The 5-door hatchback is aimed to compete in the Astra/Focus 'C' segment where the marque previously only had the Baleno saloon. It is available here with 1.3- and 1.6-litre engine options, both of which are brand-new 16v units.

Both cars have electric windows and door mirrors as standard, and security is helped by the provision of engine immobiliser systems and deadlocks. The 1.6-litre Liana GLX adds alloy wheels, ABS, aircon and front side airbags.

The Liana prices are £13,500 and £15,500.

According to Niall O'Gorman, general manager of Suzuki Ireland, the 'C' segment will sell some 50,000 units in total this year, with the 5-door hatchback element representing 40% of the total segment.

"The arrival of the Liana is a major introeduction and an indication of the future direction of Suzuki automobile design and technology," he said at the Irish launch last week.

Initial impressions of the Liana indicate that it is a comfortable and quiet car, able to hold its own in mixed road conditions. It is roomier than the class leader Ford Focus.

Niall O'Gorman said that the Suzuki Swift is still being sold alongside the other more modern Wagon R+, Ignis and now the Liana. But he indicated that the aging veteran might not be available on the Irish market for much longer.

The Wagon R+ recently gained a 1-litre engine along with its initial 1.3-litre unit, and effectively represents the entry-level Suzuki here.