The Suzuki Alto is a small car (kei car) designed by Suzuki. Its selling points have long included a low price and good fuel economy. The model, currently in its seventh generation, was first introduced in 1979 and has been built in many countries worldwide. The Alto badge has often been used on different cars in Japan and in export markets.
| Suzuki Alto | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Suzuki |
| Also called | Suzuki Mehran Suzuki Hatch Maruti 800 Maruti Zen Maruti Alto Daewoo Tico Nissan Pixo Suzuki Cervo Mode Suzuki A-Star (India) |
| Production | 1979–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Kei car City car |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 3-door van |
First generation (1979–1984)
| First generation (SS30/SS40) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Suzuki Fronte Suzuki FX Suzuki Hatch Maruti 800 |
| Production | 1979–1984 |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan[1] Whanganui, New Zealand[2] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 3-door van |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 539 cc (0.5 L) T5B two-stroke I3 (SS30) 543 cc (0.5 L) F5A SOHC I3 (SS40) 796 cc (0.8 L) F8B I3 (SS80, export only) |
The first generation (SS30V/40V), introduced in May 1979, was a three-door cargo version of the Fronte passenger car, equipped with a folding rear seat. On introduction, the Alto received the T5B two-stroke 539 cc (SS30) three-cylinder engine, producing 28 PS (21 kW) at 5,500 rpm. The Alto was a "micro sensation" when introduced, largely due to its rock bottom price of ¥470,000 (circa $1,900 in 1979, at a time when the cheapest Ford Pinto cost $4,999 in the US). This bargain price was made possible by a number of Japanese special concessions for commercial vehicles: The engine did not require twin catalysts, unlike in the Fronte. Two less doors provided another saving, as did the exemption from commodity tax. The Alto was a sensation, and other producers such as Subaru (with the "Family Rex") quickly followed suit with cut-priced "commercial" vehicles really intended for private use. The Alto propelled Suzuki into seventh place in Japanese production (cars and trucks).
In January 1981, the F5A four-stroke 543 cc known from the Fronte was also installed (though with only a single-barrel carburettor), it too put out 28 PS (21 kW) but at 6,000 rpm. Torque was considerably lower, down from 5.3 to 4.2 kg·m (52 to 41 N·m; 38 to 30 lb·ft). 1981 saw also the year that it became available on the United Kingdom market, as Suzuki began selling cars there that year.
In export markets, the Alto name was used for the passenger car versions (chassis codes with trailing letter "S") as well as on commercials (ending in"V"), while the van was marketed as the "Suzuki Hatch" in Australia. The four-doors were not proper hatchbacks, only featuring an opening rear window. Export cars were also available with twelve-inch wheels, unlike the domestic versions which only used ten-inch units until the introduction of the 4WD version in October 1983. The 4WD "Snow Liner" thus gained an extra 2.5 cm (1 in) of ground clearance.
Most export Altos were passenger car versions (which used the "Fronte" badge in the Japanese domestic markets), and usually received the 0.8 litre F8B engine and the SS80 chassis code. The SS80 was also built in New Zealand, by South Pacific Suzuki Assemblers at a rate of six per day. It was introduced in New Zealand in March 1980.
Second generation (1984–1988)
| Second generation (CA71) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Suzuki Fronte Maruti 800 Suzuki Mehran |
| Production | 1984–1993 |
| Model years | 1985–1988 (Japan) 1985–1993 (Europe) |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan Jiangnan, China Chongqing, China (Changan Suzuki) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 2-door coupé |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 543 cc (0.5 L) F5A I3 796 cc (0.8 L) F8B I3 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual 5-speed manual 2-speed automatic 3-speed automatic |
The second generation (CA71) was introduced in September 1984. It continued with the SS40's F5A engine, but also became available with turbocharged and multi-valve engines thereof, mainly in the "Works" series. In December 1984 a four-wheel-drive version (CC71) was added. Performance versions of the Alto first appear in 1985 when a turbocharged engine was made available. It gradually acquired more performance-related modifications until the Works version was introduced in February 1987. The Alto Works was the first kei-car to reach the legal limit of 64 PS (47 kW). It acquired considerable popularity, with models of it still made by Fujimi. A 5-door body (identical to the Fronte's) became available in October 1985.
In July 1986 the CA/CC71 became the CA/CC72 after a rather thorough facelift. New wraparound headlights, a new dash and interior heralded the new ITL rear suspension (Isolated Trailing Link), a three-link rigid setup. A "Walkthrough Van"was introduced in January 1987, while at the other end of the spectrum, the personal coupé Cervo on the CA/CC72 base was introduced in 1988 with a new 547 cc F5B engine. In August 1987, higher spec Altos became available with a 3-speed automatic rather than the 2-speed they had been using before.
Other markets
Europe
The 796 cc, 40 hp (30 kW) F8B-engined CA/CB91 was sold in Europe with either a four-speed manual or two-speed automatic transmission. Export Altos were technically speaking Frontes, as this was the name used for passenger versions in Japan. They received larger bumpers, making them 105 mm (4.1 in) longer and 10 mm (0.4 in) wider. European Altos received the same facelift as the CA/CB72 did in late 1986, followed by a market specific facelift in January 1988, unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show. This model remained in production (latterly by Maruti Udyog) for the European market until 1993, when it was replaced by an also Maruti-built 1-litre version of the Cervo Mode.
Pakistan[edit]
This generation of Suzuki Alto still remains in production in Pakistan.Known as Mehran, Available in 800cc Engine (F8B), in 2012 mehran was upgraded to an EFI engine for better fuel consumption. It was also sold in India as the Maruti 800 with a 796 cc MPFI F8B engine till mid 2012 as well.
China
In 1988 production began in China, in cooperation with Chang'an Motors. The Chang'an Suzuki SC7080 Alto was produced with the same F8B engine as used in other export markets, and was replaced by the facelifted SC7081 Alto/City Baby/Little Prince/Happy Prince in 2001. The top of the Line Happy Prince, discontinued in 2007, used the sportier looking front bumper, grille, and bonnet of the Alto Works. Citing lower sales, Chang'an ended production of the old Alto in July 2008, although other manufacturers continue to offer it.
Another version called JN Auto(German) is built by Jiangnan since 1992 and is still in production for the Chinese, Central and South American markets, although now it is called the 'Zotye JN Auto'. As of Dec, 2010 Zotye's Jiangnan Alto is the cheapest car in the world, with a tag price of $2,830. The entry-level model comes with the 796 cc F8B three-cylinder 36 PS (26.5 kW). A four-cylinder with a displacement of 1,051 cc and an output of 52 PS (38.5 kW) is also available. A version of the Jiangnan Alto was assembled until 2005 in Tunisia for African markets, labelled "Peugeot JN Mini".
Third generation (1988–1994)
| Third generation (CL11) | |
|---|---|
1992 Suzuki Alto
| |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Suzuki Fronte Daewoo Tico |
| Production | 1988–1994 |
| Model years | 1989–1994 |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 547 cc (0.5 L) F5B I3 657 cc (0.7 L) F6A I3 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual 5-speed manual 3-speed automatic |
The third generation (CL/CM11) replaced the CA71 in September 1988. This was the last generation of Alto to have an associated Fronte model. It had strikingly angular styling, with an unusual glazed C-pillar on the 5-door. Another curiosity of this generation was the availability of a version with sliding doors, the "Slide Slim", intended to simplify entering and exiting in tight spaces. It also made egress easier for the old and the infirm. When the Fronte name was discontinued in October 1989, the passenger car versions (CN/CP11) became Altos. Initially the CL11 used the 12-valve 42 hp (31 kW) F5B engine known from the SS71 Cervo, but with an added 34 hp (25 kW) 6-valve version in lower-spec versions. A 46 hp (34 kW) DOHC version was also available in the Twin Cam Rl. Passenger car versions had the same engines, but all with 2 hp less due to more stringent emissions controls. The fuel-injected, 12-valve, turbocharged Works models came with an SOHC 58 hp (43 kW) engine (FF S/Xor 4WD S/R) or a 64 hp (48 kW) DOHC version (FF RS/X or 4WD RS/R). The front-wheel-drive Works' were available with a 3-speed automatic in addition to the standard 5-speed manual.
660cc era
Alto/Works
When the Kei car standards were changed in 1990, capacity was increased to 657 cc (F6A) in March, the Alto becoming the CL/CM/CN/CP21 in the process. The new standards also allowed for a 100 mm (3.9 in) longer car, which meant new bigger front and rear bumper, and new headlights and grille. Lower grade Van versions received a 6-valve 36 hp (27 kW) engine, while passenger car versions (and the l'Èpo Van) got a 12-valve, 52 hp (39 kW) version. 4WD versions with the 3-speed automatic transmission were fuel-injected and offered 3 more hp. The F6A-engined Works RS/X and RS/R still claimed the legally limited 64 hp, but the lower grade i.e. Turbo(introduced in July) received a 6-valve SOHC-engine producing 61 hp (45 kW). Reflecting decreased tax benefits for commercial Kei cars, the Works series was now classified as passenger vehicles, allowing for a real backseat.
In September 1991, responding to increasing safety demands, the Alto received side impact protection. Also, the vertical door handles (see picture on the right) on three-door versions were replaced by traditional horizontal ones. The reengineering was extensive enough to necessitate new model codes, with vans becoming CL/CM22 (FF/4WD) and passenger versions (including the Works) now called CR/CS22. While performance engines remained as they were, the "cooking" Alto's engines were updated with power outputs up to 40 and 52 hp respectively (29/38 kW).
Alto Hustle
Suzuki also produced a version (the Hustle) with a high roof behind the front seats, which was unusual in that it used a modification of the five-door Alto's body rather than a completely new body; this made it possible to link the Hustle with the Alto, but made the styling rather unharmonious. Its appearance was similar to the Nissan AD Max van. It was short-lived, only being offered between November 1991 and October 1993.
Fourth generation (1995–1998)
| Fourth generation (HA11) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Production | 1994–1998 |
| Model years | 1995–1998 |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 657 cc (0.7 L) F6A I3 658 cc (0.7 L) K6A I3 |
The fourth generation (HA11) appeared in 1994. The 657 cc F6A engines were joined by a new high-performance 64 PS (47 kW) 658 cc K6A (HA21). The styling displays an interesting blend of features: the tailgate and rear doors are still fairly angular, but the front is beginning to be more rounded - a trend which would be continued in later years.
Fifth generation (1998–2004)
| Fifth generation (HA12) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Chang'an Zen Chevrolet Alto Mazda Carol |
| Production | 1998–2004 (Japan) 2000–2012 (Pakistan) |
| Model years | 1999–2004 |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan Karachi, Pakistan (Pak Suzuki) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 3-door van |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 657 cc (0.7 L) I3 658 cc (0.7 L) I3 1,000 cc (1.0 L) I4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual 5-speed manual 3-speed automatic 4-speed automatic CVT automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,360 mm (92.9 in) |
| Length | 3,395 mm (133.7 in) |
| Width | 1,475 mm (58.1 in) |
| Height | 1,440–1,455 mm (56.7–57.3 in) |
| Curb weight | 630–800 kg (1,400–1,800 lb) |
The fifth-generation Alto (HA12/22) was introduced in October 1998. The styling was generally more rounded, the shape of the cabin showing the Alto's relationship with the new Suzuki Kei. The 658 cc K6A engine was now also available without a turbocharger, joining the turbocharged version and the familiar 657 cc F6A engines. The turbocharged Works models were available with a 60 hp F6A engine (i.e., 5MT/3AT and FF or 4WD) or a 64 hpVVT K6A (RS/Z, 5MT and FF or 4WD). The front-wheel-drive RS/Z was sold with a non-VVT K6A engine when in combination with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it too with a claimed 64 hp. In December 2000, the Works versions were discontinued, as the Alto was realigned as an economy version. The Suzuki Kei Sports picked up the Works' mantle.
Several derivatives were produced from this generation. Suzuki produced two "classic-style" versions: the Alto C with a deep chrome grille and a curious headlamp arrangement by which circular main lamps were joined with ovoid sidelights and indicators, which was shared with the Alto Works; and the Alto C2 which had separate headlamps and sidelights and a wider grille. Mazda also sold the standard Alto as the Carol, and Mitsuoka used the Carol as a basis for their Ray. Pakistani production began in 2000 utilizing an old carburetor based F10A engine.
Sixth generation (2004–2009)
| Sixth generation (HA24) | |
|---|---|
2005–2006 Suzuki Alto
| |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Chevrolet Alto Maruti Alto Mazda Carol Nissan Pino |
| Production | 2004–2009 |
| Model years | 2005–2009 |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
The sixth generation (HA24) was introduced in 2004. The bonnet and headlamps curved down at the front, giving a similar effect to the Toyota WiLL Vi or the Citroën C2. The Alto was realigned as a less costly car to accommodate new models such as the Cervo and Alto Lapin. The more powerful engines were moved into the other more upmarket versions like the Suzuki Kei Works and Alto Lapin SS, leaving the Alto with only a 54 PS (40 kW) version. In Japan, this version of the Alto was rebadged as the Nissan Pino and Mazda Carol.
Seventh generation (2009–present)
Japan
| Seventh generation (HA25) | |
|---|---|
2010 Suzuki Alto
| |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Mazda Carol |
| Production | 2009–present |
| Model years | 2010–present |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 796 cc (0.8 L) I3 |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic CVT automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm (94.5 in) |
| Length | 3,395 mm (133.7 in) |
| Width | 1,475 mm (58.1 in) |
| Height | 1,535 mm (60.4 in) |
The seventh generation was first shown at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show alongside its sister car, the Mazda Carol. It is available with a 0.66L engine, a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic or a CVT transmission, in FWD or 4WD variants. Under Japanese 10-15 test cycle, the front-wheel-drive with CVT achieves 24.5 km/litre fuel economy.[30]
In 2011, Suzuki launched the Alto Eco variant, that features the R06A engine lifted from the Suzuki MR Wagon and an idling stop function. It is capable of reaching the fuel economy of 30.2 km/L (71MPG) based on Japan's JC08 Mode test cycle (32 km/L under 10-15 test cycle). This is .2 km/L higher than the Daihatsu Mira e:S.
In 2013, the Alto Eco was updated with the addition of Suzuki's ENE-CHARGE system, first applied on the fifth-generation Suzuki Wagon R. With this technology, fuel economy has now improved to 33.0 km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode test cycle.
Suzuki evolved a New Model "Alto K10". Powered by three-cylinder units displacing 998 cc. The engine is one of the best units in it class and is the only 1.0 litre twin cam engine available in the Suzuki range. The engine produces 68PS at 6200rpm and 90Nm torque at 3500rpm. Car has 5-speed transmissions and is smooth to operate. However the Alto's feels a tad better to use. The engine too is more refined and not as harsh as contemporaries. The power to weight figure is an impressive 88.88PS per tonne.
Nissan Pixo
The Nissan Pixo is the "sister car" to the Suzuki Alto featuring a few obvious differences, including the main grille and headlamps. It was revealed at the 2008 Paris Motor Show and is available in Europe since 2009. Because it is developed and built low-cost in India, the Pixo can be bought new for just under £7,000 and nearly a third of that price for a used one.The main competitors are the Toyota Aygo, Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10, all also small hatchbacks but all offering more luggage space than the Pixo.
- Trim Variants/Engines
The UK has 4 different trims available for the Pixo: N-Tec, Visia, Acenta and Tekna, all available with a 1.0 L Suzuki K10B three-cylinder petrol engine - shared with the Alto and capable of 68 hp (51 kW) and a top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph), reaching 100 km/h in 13.5 seconds. All are five-door hatchbacks, with the option of a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual gearbox, except the Visia, which is only available with the manual gearbox.
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