‘CASH FOR CLUNKERS’ schemes have launched in Germany, the UK and most recently the US, but with no sign of such a plan for the Australian market, Suzuki has announced its own scrappage scheme for local owners.

Running until July 31 and dubbed the Suzuki Upgrade Bonus, buyers trading in their old vehicle for a new Suzuki may be eligible for a ‘bonus upgrade’ ranging from $1500 to $4000.

“We have been pushing hard for Australia to adopt a scrappage scheme similar to those being employed with great success around the world,” Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers said.

“Customers in Europe, the US and even New Zealand are being encouraged with cash incentives to trade in their old cars for a new car with higher levels of safety and superior fuel economy.

“Suzuki Australia has decided to offer its own scheme with the Suzuki Upgrade Bonus.”

Starting with the Swift range, the offerings start with a $1500 bonus on the Swift and Swift S range, through to $2000 for the Swift Sport.

(See TMR’s review of the 2009 Suzuki Swift here)

The SX4 gets buyers a $2500 upgrade bonus across the range.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara range, which features six airbags and ESP stability control, offers a $2000 bonus on the three-door model, while the five-door petrol and turbodiesel models offer a $2500 bonus.

The four-cylinder Prestige model offers a $3000 bonus, and the range-topping V6 Prestige gets buyers a $4000 upgrade bonus.

(See TMR’s review of the 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara Three-Door here, and the Five-Door four-cylinder here)

Buyers looking at the Jimny Sierra will get a $1500 upgrade bonus across the range.

The APV gets commercial buyers a $1500 upgrade bonus as well.

“Unlike scrappage schemes which only reward buyers trading in a car at least nine years old, the Suzuki Australia scheme is available to registered trade-ins of any vintage.

“There has never been a better time to upgrade to the safety, reliability and environmental friendliness of a new Suzuki,” said Devers.

The Suzuki Upgrade Bonus Scheme will finish on July 31. Customers wishing to take advantage must trade in a registered vehicle.