The introduction of the new Alto city car marks 30 years since Suzuki first launched the name in 1979.
Originally the Alto was designed for the Kei class in Japan to provide motorists with low cost and enjoyable motoring, an ethos which has remained a core feature of the car’s DNA over three decades. This is a double milestone for Suzuki as it is also celebrating 30 years of sales and operations in this part of the world.
Following the introduction of the first 500cc Alto in Japan, the car proved to be a huge success, surpassing the initial sales target of 5,000 units per month by over 300 per cent in just four weeks of the model hitting dealer showrooms. The success of the Alto sparked a massive growth of the compact car segment as other manufacturers set out to take advantage of the phenomenon, but the Suzuki remained the top selling mini-vehicle for 14 years.
The Alto was first exported to Europe in 1981, and has recorded sales of 250,000 units during its 30 year presence. Mirroring the success which the car achieved in Japan, the Alto became the most popular A-segment purchase in a number of European countries.
The new seventh generation Alto, now available at the Suzuki retail network, celebrates its return as one of the greenest petrol family cars on sale today.
The five-door Alto, available with both manual and automatic transmission, comes complete with a three-cylinder 67bhp 1.0-litre engine returning a combined fuel consumption of 4.4 litres of fuel per 100kms or 64.2mpg and producing CO2 emissions as low as 103g/km. This qualifies the car for €104 annual road tax (Band A ), the cheapest classification available.
The seventh generation and stylish Alto this year celebrates its 30 year anniversary, with prices starting at €11,500 and €13,295. Standard equipment includes front electric windows, air conditioning, front and side airbags, ABS with EBD, remote central locking, and iPod connection.
The Alto continues to provide consumers with a product offering which combines fun, style, and good value for money.
