Suzuki New Zealand is reinforcing its position in a rapidly evolving automotive market, with new electric vehicle technology, strong customer satisfaction results and a continued commitment to its Whanganui base. General Manager of Finance, Admin and IT Liz Maddox-Strong says the business is experiencing significant momentum, led by the launch of its first fully electric vehicle, the e Vitara.
“There is quite a bit going on at Suzuki. We launched our e Vitara in April, our first fully electric vehicle in New Zealand, and before the first shipment landed, we already had more than 500 people register their interest across the country,” Liz says.
Demo vehicles are now being distributed to dealers nationwide, marking a key step in Suzuki’s transition into the EV market. Alongside this launch, the company continues to perform strongly across its existing vehicle lineup. The Suzuki Swift remains New Zealand’s top-selling small car, valued for its compact size and efficiency, while SUVs such as the Suzuki Vitara continue to appeal to lifestyle-focused buyers.
This strength extends beyond passenger vehicles, with Suzuki holding a solid third position in the New Zealand market for motorcycles and ATVs, reflecting consistent demand across both recreational and rural sectors. Outside of its vehicle range, Suzuki’s marine division is also experiencing strong growth, and last year achieved the highest growth of all the marine brands available in New Zealand. Liz says this is a major coup for Suzuki Marine, and is supported by a loyal customer base and reputation for reliability.
“We are a very personable company, and we are careful about choosing dealers to represent the Suzuki brand.”
Suzuki New Zealand has also recently been recognised with the Canstar Blue Award for customer satisfaction for the third consecutive year, a result Liz attributes to both product quality and dealer relationships.
“We do look after our customers and provide a good product. We also have a team of great dealers who support our customers with warranty and service. We are a very personable company, and we are careful about choosing dealers to represent the Suzuki brand.”
The business operates with a network of selected dealers, working closely with partners who align with its customer-first approach. While the automotive sector has traditionally been male-dominated, Liz says Suzuki’s workplace culture is inclusive and supportive.
The Whanganui head office employs 45 staff, with an additional team member based in Auckland. Suzuki’s long-standing presence in Whanganui remains a defining feature of the business. Originally established as Coleman Brothers before being acquired by Suzuki Motor Corporation in the early 1980s, the company has operated from the same site ever since.
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