Suzuki raises full-year profit forecast on brisk sales
Hans Greimel
Automotive News

TOKYO -- Suzuki Motor Corp. raised its full-year profit forecast after second-quarter sales jumped 16 percent on brisk overseas demand and a weaker exchange rate for the yen.

Unit sales in North America climbed 13 percent to 26,000 vehicles in the July-September period, from 23,000 in the same period of the previous fiscal year, Suzuki said Wednesday, Oct. 31.

North American revenue totaled ¥61.5 billion ($516.8 million), up 12 percent.

The regional results were broadly in line with Suzuki’s overall upbeat performance.

Operating profit increased 13 percent to $321.0 million in the second quarter. Revenue rose 16 percent to $7.01 billion.

Global revenues were driven higher partly by the yen’s decline against the euro and dollar, which helped spur overseas demand for Suzuki exports.

Looking ahead, Suzuki lifted its annual operating profit forecast to $1.22 billion for the fiscal year that ends March 31, 2008. It had earlier predicted operating profit of $1.13 billion.

Suzuki also said full-year net income is expected to rise to $689.1 million, higher than its previous outlook for net income of $638.7 million.

I wonder why Suzuki will not bring a Samurai or Jimney style product back to the US. They must know they would sell alot of them.  Are they afraid of Consumer reports?

They are to small and underpowered for our market.  If it doesn't go at least 100, most people won't look at them.  That and since they would be a "new" model they have to meet all current impact and safety standards.

They would probably bring the Swift over before the Jimney...