When we designed the Aerio, we decided that small doesn't mean a severe reduction in style, roominess, power or refinement.
In fact, we completely re-thought the concept of a small car. We gave it everything you expect in a bigger, more expensive car,
but without the dollar and size penalty. For starters, we gave Aerio one of the biggest interiors in its class. That means plenty of
head-, leg- and hip-room so passengers can enjoy the ride and not wonder, "Are we there yet?" To complement the big room,
we gave it big power. As in 145 hp to get quickly up to speed on highways and good reserves for safe passing. In addition to
more-than-ample cabin room, you'll find standard air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, and an in-dash CD player with
six speakers. The GS model has a six-disc in-dash CD changer and power door locks. Some cars in this class don't even offer
many of these items as options. With Aerio, it's the basis of what we consider new thinking. For occupant protection, Aerio's
reinforced passenger compartment uses high-tensile-strength steel and side-impact door beams. Additional safety features
include front and rear energy-absorbing zones, second-generation dual airbags and three-point seatbelts for all passengers.
So, if you're thinking about getting a small car, consider one where the thinking isn't limited by its size.
Conventional thinking says that all-wheel drive (AWD) is reserved for more expensive cars. New thinking says absolutely not.
Building on the platform of lively handling and responsiveness, Suzuki designers thought it would be wonderful if Aerio added a
boost in traction to its portfolio of talents. Starting this year, Aerio GS is available with Suzuki's QuadGripTM All-wheel-drive
system, making it the most affordable AWD vehicle on the market. That's because we don't think of added traction as a luxury.
On wet or slippery roads, the system directs the 145 hp of the 2.0-liter DOHC engine to both front and back wheels, grabbing
the best traction available for the conditions. New thinking also says you shouldn't have to physically do anything to get the
best traction. Or even wait for it. Which is why we developed a viscous coupling that automatically transfers power to the rear
wheels if the front wheels start to slip. There are no levers to engage or buttons to push. The added traction is there when you
need it. To enhance visibility, the GS model features standard fog lamps. It also features a rear spoiler with an integral brake
light. For enhanced stability under braking on slippery roads, GS is available with four-wheel ABS. When you add it up, four
beats two. And, Aerio is a winner no matter how you do the math.
Suzuki's quadGrip all-wheel-drive system
The heart of the Aerio's QuadGrip AWD system is the viscous coupling. Under normal driving conditions, power is delivered
only to the front wheels. If the front wheels begin to slip due to poor traction, the viscous coupling takes charge and begins to
transfer power to the rear wheels. It continues to transfer power up to a potential maximum of 50/50 front/rear power distribu-
tion. Best of all, the transition to AWD happens quickly with no action required of the driver. In slippery conditions, this system
not only provides improved traction, but improved handling in corners, resulting in greater directional stability.
Aerio STANDARD Features
Exterior: Body-side moldings · Multi-reflector jewel-type headlamps · Color-keyed front and rear bumpers · Intermittent wind-
shield wipers · GS models add: 15" aluminum alloy wheels · Keyless remote entry · Rear spoiler with brake light · Fog lamps ·
Color-keyed door handles and mirrors · Chrome exhaust tip · Air conditioning · Power windows and mirrors
Interior: In-dash CD player with 6 speakers · Tilt steering wheel · Digital instrument display · Ambient outside temperature dis-
play · Split-folding rear seatbacks · Rear-window defroster - GS models add: 6-disc in-dash CD changer · Power door locks ·
Cruise control · Driver's seat height adjuster · Below-seat storage bin · Map lights · Trunk/cargo light · Front seatback pockets
2003
