It’s brand new. And it’s a proper improvement…
Launched in SA only a few weeks ago, the new Suzuki Celerio arrived for a full test. Powered by an updated version of the 3 cylinder 1L petrol engine, it is the typical lightweight Suzuki construction that makes the difference.
Based on a version of the “Heartect” platform, performance figures of 49kW and 89Nm may not sound like much. But this little cat boasts a better power to weight ratio than most providing surprising performance for this category. The Celerio has grown up from the previous generation and I consider it to now be a baby Swift in many ways.
What Suzuki have done is endow the car with many features that you do not expect from a car in this category and price point. GL spec provides you with a 7″ infotainment screen that includes Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Keyless entry, push-button start and even stop/start technology are included. Suzuki SA are also very proud of the fact that the Celerio is the only range under R200 000 that includes ESP as standard.
Although there is a base GA model available, the GL as tested is the one to have. In addition to the features mentioned above, it adds items like 15″ black mag wheels which makes it look quite sporty. In typical Suzuki fashion, the fuel economy of 5.3L/100km for mainly urban driving is exceptional but expected. When freeway cruising, the car feels stable and comfortable and as long as you keep the buzzy little 3 cylinder at slightly higher revs, then performance here is quite acceptable. Overall, at R194 900 as tested, this is a real contender.
A 2 year/ 30 000km service plan and 5 year/ 200 000km warranty are included.
Alan Rosenmeyer