Suzuki no longer sells cars and SUVs in the US but the company does well enough in other markets where their vehicles are still popular. Just yesterday, I wrote about the Honda N-Box Slash kei car and here is Suzuki releasing their latest Suzuki Alto kei car. Kei car is a special vehicle which is restricted in size and power and very popular in Japan. The Honda Slash and Nissan Dayz at least have good looks going for them despite their small size but this creature from Suzuki is on another level. Looks like Suzuki was going for a retro look but didn’t quite get it right.
This Suzuki Alto is the eighth-generation based on a newly-developed platform which saved 132 pounds in weight when compared to the previous model and also features the lowest fuel consumption in non-hybrid gasoline engines in Japan.
Although the looks are lacking, it may impress you to know that the fuel economy is pretty awesome at 87 mpg US or 2.7L/100km! The 2WD features a five-speed manual transmission and only weighs in at 1,345 pounds. If you’re a “Point A to Point B” type of person, this vehicle would be perfect for you but unfortunately it’s not available for North Americans.
The cabin measures in at 80.32 inches making it the longest cabin length in its class thanks to its long wheelbase of 96.85 inches when compared to the outgoing model. Although a basic car, Suzuki has implemented new safety technologies including Hill Hold Control, Radar Brake Support collision-mitigation braking system, unintended start control system, and an emergency stop signal.
The Japanese Alto (kei car) is powered by a 660cc three-cylinder engine which is available in either naturally aspirated or a turbocharged version. Transmissions offered are either a five-speed manual or a CVT automatic and each is available in both a 2WD and 4WD versions.
The best part of course is the starting price of only $7,060. It would be the perfect budget car for the North American student.
