All new Suzuki Celerio – SA’s most fuel-efficient Hatchback
May 26, 2022
The second-gen Suzuki Celerio has arrived here. This is an all new Celerio that was redesigned inside and out and also built on an all new platform.
I must say the new Celerio is visually more appealing, it looks modern and dare I say sporty as well. As a bonus it is also slightly wider at 55mm more which adds to interior space and comfort.
It is now built on Suzuki’s Heartect platform and equipped with front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension. This is the same platform currently used for all the new Suzuki hatchbacks.
The interior is totally redesigned, the new dashboard really looks stylish for a vehicle in this class. It gets a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system in the GL models, which is in keeping with the modern trends.
It is definitely a bit larger than the outgoing model and more practical. You get cupholders, door pockets and a larger centre console.
There is much more of a quality feel to the interior which just makes the Celerio a more attractive purchase.
Seating in general is also more comfortable. There are more than enough legroom at the back adding to the comfort levels of the rear passengers.
One negative might be the small headrests at the back, which does not give much support. Adults might find it uncomfortable, but children should not have an issue.
Another bonus is the boot space, the capacity has been increased to around 313 litres. Rear seats now also split 60:40. The boot’s loading lip at the back is a bit high, so you would need to lift your heavy suitcases a bit higher than usual.
There are three model variants in the range which are all powered by 1.0l VVT naturally aspirated engine, which is good for 49kW and 89Nm.
It does not sound like much but considering the light weight of the Celerio it works well.
Fuel consumption is claimed at 4.2l per 100km which is excellent and will save a few Rands on fuel.
There are GA and GL trims available.
The GA, which is the entry level spec, gets quiet a bit of kit which includes: Info display, ABS with EBD and BA, ESP, Engine Auto Start Stop, Rear Parking sensors, dual airbags up front and ISOFIX points. The GA is only available with a manual transmission.
The GL gets a few more goodies over and above the GA which includes: Electrically adjustable side mirrors, Smart infotainment system, front USB port, Remote central locking and you can choose between an manual or AMT transmission.
The little Celerio drives well and is a pleasure to drive around town, highway driving is not bad, but it needs some planning to overtake due to the small engine capacity. The AMT transmission might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it really works well in city driving
So should you buy one?
If you are in the market for a city run-about then the Celerio is for you. It is a great A-to-B car and is priced well. I would however suggest skipping the GA model and go for the GL.
Suzuki has come a long way here in South Africa and has been proven to be reliable value for money vehicles and proven exceptional aftersales service.
Pricing:
1.0 GA MT – R174,900
1.0 GL MT – R194,900
1.0 GL AMT – R209,900
*Pricing as listed by Suzuki as at time of publication
The Suzuki Celerio comes standard with a 2 year / 30 000 km Service Plan and a 5 year / 200 000 km Promotional Warranty. For the best Suzuki experience, your Suzuki Celerio must be serviced once every twelve months or every 15 000 km, whichever comes first.
Murray On Cars
