GOOD news for Suzuki fans.

All models across the range have been given a specification boost, without any extra pounds being added to the price tag.

Radio and CD players, driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock braking, with electronic brake force distribution, are now provided as standard fittings.

There is also a facelift for the Liana range of hatchbacks and sedans.

Air conditioning is to be standard on the Grand Vitara three-door 1.6-litre estate, and there is a price cut for the Grand Vitara 2.0-litre model. The Liana has built quite a strong following, and the latest four-door sedan and five-door hatchback models are likely to add to the appeal.

On the outside, Liana models now take on a bolder road presence with a new two-bar grille sporting Suzuki's new "S" emblem, and body-coloured side mouldings and bumper cornering mouldings. However, the biggest changes are saved for inside, now completely revised with a new fascia with a metallic silver finish to the centre console, air vent surrounds and the door-mounted window switches.

There are also new designs to the analogue speedometer and tachometer, together with digital clock and outside temperature gauge built into the fascia above the centre console.

Seating has also been improved offering more support, while reshaped door pockets have increased the footwell width.

The driver's seat can be adjusted for height, and there is now an armrest provided in the automatic-transmission equipped models.

On top of these, there is now a glasses holder, 12-volt accessory socket, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and heated, power-operated door mirrors.

Liana comes in two specification levels, the GL and GLX, with the latter getting air conditioning, front side airbags and front fog lights as standard.

A 1586cc all-alloy engine producing nearly 105bhp provides the power, and the combined fuel economy figure is 40.9mpg with carbon emissions of 169g/km. On the road prices start at £8,995 for the manual GL sedan and hatchback, and £9,995 for the GLX grade. Automatic GLX models are £10,863 on the road.

Suzuki's 1.1-litre Alto is on special offer at £5,495 on the road, and is now fitted with audio/CD player, anti-lock braking together with electronic brake force distribution, as well as rear head restraints, new seats and new interior trim. The Alto also has a combined fuel economy figure of 57.6mpg.

Moving to the manufacturer's 4x4 range, the Jimny estate Mode special edition becomes a standard model, while the soft top models now includes a leather covered steering wheel and gear knob, silver dials and two-tone cloth upholstery.

The Grand Vitara 1.6-litre three-door SE estate now has air conditioning, with the manual model price remaining at £12,795 and the automatic £13,745 both on the road.

Incidentally, all five-door Grand Vitara models have been kitted out with electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors.

Updated: 10:19 Friday, April 02, 2004