Suzuki Liana

Introduction

The Suzuki Liana, produced between 2001 and 2007, was a compact family car available as a hatchback and sedan. Known as the Aerio in some markets, it was designed to provide practicality, affordability, and reliability. The Liana gained popularity in Europe and Asia, and even became well-known globally for being the car used on the TV show Top Gear for its "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car" segment.

Exterior

The Liana featured a simple and functional exterior design with a tall body structure that maximized cabin space. Its clean lines, large windows, and compact proportions made it easy to drive in urban settings. Alloy wheels, roof rails (on some versions), and a high roofline gave it a practical yet understated appearance.

Interior

Inside, the Liana was spacious for its class, offering good headroom and legroom thanks to its tall design. The dashboard was straightforward and functional, with easy-to-use controls. Higher trims offered amenities such as air conditioning, CD players, and optional leather seating. The rear seats could be folded to expand luggage space, enhancing practicality.

Safety Features

The Suzuki Liana came equipped with standard safety features such as dual front airbags, ABS brakes, and side-impact protection beams. Some markets offered side airbags and electronic stability control. Its safety equipment was competitive for an affordable compact car of its era.

Engine Trims

The Liana was offered with a range of petrol and diesel engines, including 1.3L, 1.6L, and 1.8L petrol options, producing between 89–125 hp, depending on the market. A 1.4L diesel engine was also available in certain regions. Transmission options included manual and automatic gearboxes, with front-wheel drive standard.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Liana is affordable and straightforward, with parts widely available in most markets. Regular servicing of the engine, brakes, and suspension ensures reliability. Its simple design and robust mechanicals make it easy to maintain, adding to its appeal as a budget-friendly car.

Competitors

The Suzuki Liana competed with compact cars such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, and Nissan Sunny. It stood out for its practicality, affordability, and spacious interior relative to its size.