Suzuki Alto tops NRMA Costs Survey

LAVERTON, AUSTRALIA – July 1, 2010: Australia has a new budget beating champion with the Suzuki Alto judged the least expensive car to own and operate in the annual survey conducted by NRMA Motoring & Services.

Based on average car operating costs over a five year period, the Alto GL ranked first amongst all vehicles with a weekly outlay of just $88.82 – almost ten dollars clear of its nearest rival.

With a drive away price of only $12,490, outstanding fuel efficiency of just 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres and low servicing costs, the NRMA survey confirms Suzuki Alto as one of the best value cars on the market.

Its average weekly fuel bill was calculated at $21.14 per week and its overall cost per kilometre a mere 31 cents – taking into account purchase price, depreciation, petrol prices, maintenance and service.

The iconic Suzuki Jimny Sierra also took out top honours in the competitive Compact SUV segment, with an average cost of $127.40 a week to run.

In comparison, the state average for motorists was $183 a week.

“The Suzuki mantra of providing quality, reliable and value-packed products couldn’t be more evident than in these two award-winning vehicles. We are extremely proud of this recognition by NRMA,” said Suzuki Australia general manager, Tony Devers.

“Alto offers consumers the right choice. It was engineered on the basis that people could choose a practical, quality, low-running cost vehicle that also offers great performance, high levels of safety and outstanding fuel economy.

“And Jimny Sierra – the original rugged 4x4 – remains the most affordable four-wheel drive in the country.”

The NRMA survey is Australia’s most authoritative, comparing more than 600 cars on all key cost factors.

A full listing of Australia’s most economical to run cars car be seen at