Suzuki Alto Officially Launched In Malaysia

Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Suzuki cars, has launched the Suzuki Alto 1.0, a fully imported supermini from India that brings the fight to local heavyweights Perodua Viva, Proton Savvy and Inokom i10. Three variants are available: the GA manual variant at RM 44,888, the GLX automatic variant at RM 49,999, and the GXS automatic variant at RM 54,888 (on-the-road without insurance).

Measuring 3500 mm in length, 2360 mm in wheelbase, 1600 mm in width and 1470 mm in height, the Alto is shorter in length, wheelbase and height but wider in width compared with the Viva. Underpinning the aerodynamic body (0.30 drag coefficient) is a chassis with MacPherson strut up front and three-link rigid axle at the rear. Ventilated discs provide the braking power at the front, assisted by drums behind.

Powering the Alto is a three-cylinder 1.0-litre K10B engine, capable of producing 67 bhp at 6000 rpm and 90 Nm at 3400 rpm, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic gearbox with a gate-type shifter. The Alto has seven more horses (torque is identical) than the Perodua, but weights 70 kg more than the heaviest Viva variant.

The GA manual variant comes with standard equipments such as manual air-conditioner, single-folding bench seat, dual front airbags, three-point ELR front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, two three-point ELR rear seatbelts, and two ISOFIX child seat anchorages at the back.

The GLX automatic variant adds on front fog lamps, coloured side mirrors, two-way adjustable steering wheel, tachometer, front power windows, 50:50 split-folding rear seats, plus ABS with EBD and Brake Assist. The range-topping GXS automatic variant further adds a body kit, window tint, leather seats and door visors.

Offered in six colours and available for viewing at all 29 Suzuki showrooms, the Suzuki Alto is expected to achieve monthly sales target of 150 units, which should further contribute to the 13 percent total sales growth seen in the financial year just past. Local assembly of Suzuki models including Grand Vitara, Swift Sport, SX4 sport crossover, SX4 sedan and Alto would lower prices and enhance sales when it eventually gets underway.