Choose to be Economical. Choose to be Safe. Choose to be Green. Choose Alto

LAVERTON NORTH, AUSTRALIA – July 20, 2009: Suzuki is leading the way in eco-friendly motoring by pioneering a brand new vehicle segment to Australia with the eye-catching sub-light Alto.

The smallest member of Suzuki’s acclaimed range of world strategic models, the new Alto offers the fuel economy of a hybrid for around one third of the price.

Combining European style, easy mobility and outstanding environmental performance in terms of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions, Alto is set to redefine the local car market as the benchmark, low-cost ‘green’ car.

“At the heart of the concept is Suzuki’s belief that people should be able to choose economical, eco-friendly motoring without sacrificing style, comfort, practicality, safety or performance,” says Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers.

“More importantly, Suzuki believes drivers should not have to pay a premium price for the package. This is why we have made a conscious decision not to use costly technology such as a hybrid powertrain in our new sub-light car.”

Devers said the new Suzuki Alto puts a quality, environmentally conscious car within reach of all motorists for the first time.

“Alto offers consumers the right choice. It is the answer for people who want a quality, low-running cost vehicle offering great performance, high levels of safety and outstanding fuel economy.”

“It meets the lifestyle needs of today's motorists and the pressing global need for environmental compatibility.”

“Suzuki is excited to be the first local car company to offer a genuine green car, combining segment-leading safety of six airbags as standard, all for under $13,000.”

“Returning outstanding fuel economy figures of just 4.8 L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 113 grams per kilometre, the Alto is without doubt the most affordable eco-friendly car on the market.”

He added that that the green credentials were only one element of the Alto story.

“It is one of the most fun-to-drive cars available and a great example of Suzuki's ‘Way of Life!’ philosophy.”

Suzuki has long been a pioneer in the automotive industry having introduced the world to light weight four-wheel driving with the LJ10 in 1968. Twenty years on Suzuki did it again by engineering a new breed of vehicle – the compact SUV – with the original Vitara.

Now, with the Alto, Suzuki breaks more new ground with the introduction of an affordable sub-light car.

Already a well-established segment in both Europe and Asia, the sub-light category’s place on the Australian automotive landscape is set to grow in importance as the price of petrol invariably rises and consumers look to make their dollar go further.

Measuring 3500mm in length and powered by a spirited three cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine, the Alto’s package represents everything the company has come to learn as the small-car manufacturing experts.

“The all new Alto reflects the unparalleled knowledge of small car know-how that has made Suzuki the world leader in mini-vehicles and compact cars like the Swift,” said Devers.

“Suzuki is driven by a passion to offer customers eco-friendly cars at the most affordable prices.”

“With a recommended retail price of just $12,490, the Alto epitomises this philosophy as the most affordable five door petrol model, with genuine green credentials, in Australia.”

Manufactured in Suzuki’s award winning Manesar plant in India, the Alto was designed by Suzuki engineers and tuned for production based on an extensive test drive program around the world.

In developing the all-new Alto, Chief Program Designer Tatsumi Fukunaga said the design team’s key aim was to build a sporty, European-inspired model that offered great levels of comfort and convenience within a sub-light car.

“Drawing on our knowledge of the mini-vehicle market, engineering staff travelled extensively to leading design centres including Paris and Milan for styling cues. The end result is a fresh, distinctive looking car ideally matched to modern tastes.”

The Alto is available in two specifications – GL and GLX. Both are packed with features that stay true to the Suzuki promise of outstanding value for money.

Standard features on the GL include air conditioning, CD stereo system with MP3 auxiliary input, remote central locking, ABS brakes, front power windows and six airbags, including head protecting side curtain airbags.

The GLX specification adds alloy wheels, front fog lamps, a six-speaker sound system, tachometer and ESP® stability control.

Available as a five door model for maximum convenience, the Alto is offered with a five-speed manual gear box or an optional four-speed automatic.