Suzuki Auto South Africa (SASA) has launched its first commercial vehicle in the local market, in the form of the Super Carry ultracompact bakkie.

SASA says South Africa is the first market outside of India – where the Super Carry is manufactured – to introduce the newcomer.

“The light commercial vehicle market represents a significant part of the total industry and Suzuki are always looking to introduce new models into growing market segments,” says SASA product planning and sales manager Charl Grobler.

Now in its eleventh generation, the Super Carry was first launched in Japan in 1961 under the Suzulight banner.

The bakkie, with its cab-over design, is aimed at small business owners and entrepreneurs seeking a lightweight workhorse.

It offers a payload of 750 kg, together with a load bay width of 1.49 m, while ground clearance of 175 mm allows the vehicle to traverse challenging terrain.

The turning circle is 8.6 m.

The Super Carry is 3.8 m long and 1.56 m wide, with a load deck measuring 2.18 m by 1.49 m.

Powering the new Super Carry is Suzuki’s GB14 four-cylinder petrol engine. The multipoint fuel-injected unit has a maximum power output of 54 kW at 6 000 rpm, combined with 101 Nm torque at 3 000 rpm.

The gearbox is a five-speed manual powering the rear wheels.

“We are delighted to introduce the Suzuki Super Carry to the South African market,” notes Grobler.

“It arrives at a time when cost efficiency, affordability and value for money are key requirements for small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking an efficient, versatile and robust utility vehicle.”

SASA hopes to sell 80 Super Carry units a month.

Grobler says SASA is not looking at introducing other commercial vehicle products “at this stage”.

The new Suzuki Super Carry sells for R129 900.

The price includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty.

Thirty-six of SASA’s 43 dealers sell the Super Carry.