NEW SUZUKI CELERIO: EXTRA LARGE SMALL CAR:
SUZUKI’s all-new Celerio, which replaces the popular Alto mini hatchback has been created to provide buyers of small cars with a generous and enjoyable motoring experience. The newcomer proves that compact does not need to be cramped and that style does not have to cost a fortune.
Developed for world markets and already a top seller in India, the Celerio reflects Suzuki’s unrivalled expertise as a producer of compact cars and SUVs with a concept that combines the userfriendly dimensions.
At the same time, the Celerio’s efficient drive train delivers zesty dynamics, combined with economical fuel consumption. Its low carbon dioxide exhaust emissions also endow the new Celerio with impressive environmental credentials.
Measuring 3,6 metres long and 1,6 metres wide, the new Celerio is a member of the mini hatchback clan, making it the perfect choice for zipping through city traffic or squeezing into tight parking spaces.
However, the impression of space when stepping into the cockpit of the Celerio is quite at odds with its compact footprint. One of the reasons is a height of 1,53 metres, which ensures an unusual level of headroom and also thanks to an extended wheelbase, short overhangs and space-saving suspension, interior space is maximised.
The Celerio matches its efficient packaging to attractive, modern styling. A prominent chrome grille with broad, horizontal bars is the dominating feature, while bold headlights add to the car’s expressive ‘face’.
The Celerio features Suzuki’s (Curve In, Curve Out) design and strong style lines demarcating the flanks and the shoulder line of the hatchback, contributing to a sleek and streamlined impression.
The rear is dominated by the large tailgate, which opens down to bumper level for convenient access to the cargo compartment.
A further hallmark of the new Celerio is its K10B three-cylinder engine. The 1,0 litre unit combines ample urge with high efficiency, ensuring zippy performance and excellent fuel consumption. The vehicle’s rated maximum power is 50 kW at 6 000 r/min, combined with a torque peak of 90 Nm at a relatively low 3 500 r/min.
Depending on model, the combined cycle fuel consumption figure of the Celerio is as low as 4,6 litres/100 km, with an associated CO2 emissions rating of 108 g/km — well below the emissions tax threshold.
That translates into an operating range of more than 750 km from a single 35 litre tank. The Celerio is the first Suzuki model to be fitted with the marque’s new automated manual gearbox, which allows clutch less opera- tion of a manual gearbox without the energy losses usually associated with conventional torque converter-based automatic transmissions.
Instead, it uses an electro-hydraulic actuator to change gears without the need for a clutch pedal.
The system offers both full auto and manual shift modes, and ensures a smooth shift action by synchronising clutch control, gearshift action and engine speed. A creep function allow smooth operation in stop-start city traffic, too.
Benefits of the automated manual gearbox include reduced weight, greater fuel efficiency, affordability and a fun driving experience. It also ensures that the Celerio becomes the most fuel-efficient automatic transmission car in South Africa.
The Celerio’s efficiency and practicality are linked to a high degree of active and passive safety. Dual front SRS airbags, an ABS anti-lock braking system, inertia reel seatbelts, childproof door locks and a high-mounted third brake light are all standard.
“The new Celerio follows in the successful footsteps of our popular Alto mini hatchback, but offers significant advantages as far as space, practicality, style and overall refinement are concerned,” says Yukio Sato, managing director of Suzuki Auto South Africa.
“It proves that ultra-compact, highly efficient passenger cars can also offer their occupants space, style and comfort, simply by applying intelligent design and packaging.
As such, the Celerio is a further expression of Suzuki’s proven track record in designing and developing exceptional small cars.”
The new Suzuki Celerio is more than just a small car. It’s a thoroughly modern, intelligently designed mini-hatchback designed to exceed expectations at every turn.
The new Celerio has been designed and developed as a global car, and is produced by Suzuki in India and Thailand for export to world markets, including South Africa.