Suzuki has announced it will skip the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit because the space it was offered didn't fit its needs, the company and show organizers said Wednesday. First auto maker that announced it will skip the show was Porsche.

Suzuki's acknowledgement that Cobo Center isn't big enough is the first confirmation by an automaker that the convention center doesn't fit carmakers' needs.

"From a Suzuki standpoint they were in need of space -- more than they were allocated," said Rod Alberts, executive director of the NAIAS. "There's a need for additional space at Cobo. It's time for some expansion."

Jeff Holland, a Suzuki spokesman, said the space and location that the company was offered didn't fit its display needs, adding that Suzuki's plans for more active displays couldn't be accommodated. Suzuki plans to introduce three new products in the next 18 months, and other cities better fit their marketing needs, he said.

"It's recognizing that we can't be everywhere and recognizing that opportunities are better in shows in other parts of the country," said David Boldt, product public relations manager for Suzuki.

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