Suzuki Alto

Introduction

The Alto is a compact hatchback produced by the Japanese automaker Suzuki. It was initially introduced in 1979 and is currently in its eighth generation (Introduced in December 2014). The Alto badge has been used on different cars in export markets, considering it as a city car. In International auto markets, this small family car is popular with different names such as Suzuki Celerio or Suzuki A-star (Alto-Star). This car is made for easy cruising in traffic and congested spaces and hence comes with minimal dimensions.

Engine, mileage & variants

The easy-to-drive Alto is best fitted for town and city motoring, with its highly efficient 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine named K10B. The newly-developed K10B engine is light and compact which helps in keeping the friction low, resulting in low fuel consumption, low emissions and great performance. It produces maximum power of 68 PS at 6000 rotations per minute, along with a peak torque of about 87 Nm at 4500 rpm. This fuel efficient engine is very light on pocket as it keeps running costs low by delivering a brilliant mileage in the range of 22km/l to 24.7 km/l with CO2 emission as low as 99 g/km making it exceptionally economical and eco-friendly. It takes 17 seconds to achieve the mark of 100 km/h from a halt.

Exteriors

The stylish and well-built hatchback by Suzuki shows its strong and rebellious character, leaving all of its conventions behind. Its sporty and solid exterior design conveys a welcoming warmth to its occupants. This aerodynamic hatchback with striking body lines, sporty front bumper, fog lamps and appealing side mirrors creates an outstanding impression on others. This hatchback encloses an aerodynamically efficient form, fitted with a number of equipments that accentuates its overall appeal. Being a hatchback, the Alto offers compact space to its occupants with its dimensions measuring at 3500mm x 1600mm x 1470 mm (L x W x H), and the wheelbase remains as 2360 mm. Anchored with 14-inch alloy wheels, the 155/65 R14 sized tyres add sportiness to this compact car.

Interiors

In recent years, the interior quality and refinement has improved drastically for the convenience of its occupants. The highly legible meter cluster and superb-quality audio system with USB connectivity let you enjoy your ride. This hatchback is fitted with comfortable seats that have ample support and refined comfort. For easy access, this hatchback is fitted with a wide tailgate that makes loading and unloading of luggage easy. Other than this, it offers appealing cabin lights that creates harmonious ambiance inside, with a number of storage features including cup holders, bottle holders, storage pockets and silver colored door opener.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

For safety and reliability, this 4-door hatchback offers a number of safety features. It includes dual SRS airbags (front) to keep the driver and front seat passenger safe at the time of collision. Also, it is equipped with stopping power feature which encloses the large front disc and rear drum brakes with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce distribution (EBD) which ensures confidence-inspiring control on the vehicle. For a comfortable ride, the Alto is fitted with McPherson strut suspension on front axle and three-link rigid axle with coil spring at rear.

Verdict

Henceforth, this small family hatchback offers easy to drive experience and low running costs. However, the confined boot space and low plastic quality used inside, might make for a lack luster appeal.