June 27, 2002

Suzuki to sue Consumer Reports over 1988 Samarai rollover report

San Francisco, California - A U.S. appeals court has ruled that Suzuki Motor Corporation, which is now 20 percent owned by General Motors, can sue Consumer Reports magazine over an article in 1988 which alleged that the Samarai had a propensity to roll over. Suzuki is claiming that Consumer Reports rigged the rollover tests.

Sales of the Samarai dropped sharply after the report, and the vehicle was discontinued a few years later.

"Today's ruling means that CU will now have to answer in court for the false charges it has spread," said George Ball, counsel for Suzuki in a statement. "We look forward to presenting our evidence and moving the case toward final resolution."

Suzuki plans to seek damages from Consumer's Union, publishers of Consumer Reports.

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