The Maruti Suzuki Alto is a city car manufactured and marketed by Suzuki through its subsidiary Maruti Suzuki primarily for the Indian market since 2000. The first-generation model was essentially the Indian version of the fifth-generation Suzuki Alto kei car (with larger engine options). The second generation was made as a standalone model, which was built on the same platform as the first generation. The third-generation model is built on the same underpinnings as the S-Presso .
95-563: The Suzuki Mehran is a rebadged version of the second-generation Suzuki Alto CA/CC71, manufactured by Pak Suzuki Motors . It was introduced as the successor to the classic Suzuki FX , a rebadged First Generation Suzuki Alto (SS80S) . Upon its introduction to the Pakistani market in 1989, the Suzuki Mehran had a retail price of PKR.90,000. In November 2016, the Suzuki Mehran sold for around 650,000 Pakistani rupee ($ 3892). In 2013,
190-620: A commercial vehicle derivative of the Fronte , but over time the Alto nameplate gained in popularity and by 1988 it replaced the Fronte name completely. The Alto badge has often been used on different cars in Japan and in export markets, where it is considered a city car . In Japan, the Alto badge was originally meant to be for the commercial use version of the Fronte passenger car. The word " alto "
285-549: A single-cam 12-valve 42 PS (31 kW) version. This engine was upgraded to 52 PS (38 kW) in January 1991. 4WD versions with the three-speed automatic transmission were fuel-injected and offered three more horsepower. The F6A-engined Works RS/X and RS/R still claimed the legally limited 64 PS (47 kW) with 8.7 kg⋅m (63 lb⋅ft) of torque, but the lower grade i.e. Turbo (introduced in July) received
380-538: A three-link rigid setup. Some lower end models retained the earlier leaf sprung rigid axle; those with ITL received the CA/CC72 chassis code. 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 (33.4 cu in) F5B engine. In August 1987, higher spec Altos became available with
475-556: A 3- or 5-door hatchback body. A 3-door van version remained available. Passenger model production was discontinued in August 2004 to make room for the succeeding generation, but a decontented Van version was kept in production until January 2005. These forwent the VVT system and the automatic only had three forward speeds rather than four as before. This model also entered production in India as
570-415: A 3-speed automatic in addition to the standard 5-speed manual. This generation was very successful at home, with Suzuki's kei car sales tripling in 1989 versus the year before. It was, however, not generally exported, and was never built by Suzuki with engines of more than 660 cc nor with left-hand-drive. Export models arrived late, only by 1993 after the earlier export version had been retired, and it
665-403: A 55 PS (40 kW) fuel injected version, as was the case since the third generation Alto. The l'Èpo models also received a new (optional) airbag . The Works models only received smaller changes at this time, such as white-backed meters in the dashboard. The RS/Z also received 14-inch wheels and fuller equipment. In November 1997, the even better equipped l'Èpo Limited model appeared, with
760-501: A 6-valve SOHC-engine producing 61 PS (45 kW) and 9.2 kg⋅m (67 lb⋅ft) of torque (slightly more than the high-revving, twin cam RS). Reflecting decreased tax benefits for commercial Kei cars, the Works series were now classified as passenger vehicles, allowing for a real back seat. The lineup was reorganised in January 1991, with a lot of new engine specifications. In September 1991, responding to increasing safety demands,
855-576: A Euro-II model was introduced, the only notable difference was the use of an electronic fuel injection system that replaced the already long-outdated carburettor that came installed in models up until 2012. The car was badged with a "euro-II" mark on the rear and sold at a higher price. In 2015, press reports indicated the car sold for US$ 6,500-7700, despite lacking essential and basic safety features such as airbags, ABS, rear window defogger, side air conditioner vents, seat belt reminder and even rear seat belts. Front row seat belts first came preinstalled during
950-587: A bigger opening. In May 1996, the l'Èpo model appeared, this three or five-door sedan was based on the Se/Le model and was also available with four-wheel drive. This version received full power equipment, remote key entry, distinctly upholstered full fabric seats (rather than the vinyl backed units of the Se/Le), hubcaps and many other amenities. The Works Turbo F Limited ie/s version appeared in November 1996, offering
1045-500: A bygone era, having an outdated and obsolete look. Towards the end of production, local parts content had increased to 72 percent. Maintenance on the Mehran was relatively cheaper, this is what allowed it to have a higher resale value than most other vehicles in the market. Despite being obsolete, the car still had a high demand. In September 2018 (the highest selling year for the model), Pak Suzuki accounted for having sold 47,199 units in
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#17327981170961140-503: A carbon panel, special alloy wheels, and more spoilers. In April 1997, the range received a facelift with side door impact beams and a new front design, with new marker lights beneath the headlights and a redesigned trunklid. The Alto l'Èpo P2 appeared at the same time, using a fuel injected version of the 12-valve engine with 55 PS (40 kW) rather than the usual 52 PS (38 kW) carburetted unit. All 12-valve models fitted with four-wheel drive and automatic transmission received
1235-548: A larger HT06/RA12 turbocharger was fitted, along with 260 cc injectors and a larger intercooler (necessitating a hood scoop nearly as wide as the bonnet itself). The weight savings were only 10 kg (22 lb) over the Works RS/Z for this model. This was the end of the Works R series of cars, foreshadowing the end of the Works badge in 2000. The fifth-generation Alto ( HA12/22 ) was introduced in October 1998. The styling
1330-694: 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 (53 hp; 40 kW) version. In Japan, this version of the Alto was not only rebadged as the Mazda Carol, but also by Nissan as the Pino. The seventh-generation Alto
1425-575: A limited sporty edition based on the well-equipped Sf model (also with four-wheel drive) with a front and rear spoiler, appeared in June 1995. In July 1995, a version of the Works Turbo ie/s called the Limited appeared; this had special stereo equipment and keyless entry and power locks. It was developed by AddZest (Clarion) . In November 1995, the Works model received a new grille and front bumper, with
1520-497: A more powerful stereo system including a CD player. In January 1998, the Works Sports Limited model appeared, a Works ie/s with 14-inch wheels and special seats. In May the "Alto Beam" special model appeared, with UV reflecting glass and extra large seats. In March 1995, a second iteration of the Works R arrived, again a limited production vehicle with a close-ratio transmission, built for competition purposes. Like
1615-438: A new chrome fitted front grille, new swept back headlamps, and a redesigned bonnet line. There are also amendments for tail lights, restructuring of bumpers, 13-inch wheels, door mirrors, door moulding and some other minor modifications. Interiors too have been updated, with a new dashboard, three-spoke steering wheel, refined upholstery, black finished music system and a better looking instrument cluster. Other added features inside
1710-482: A new standard for the Chinese auto industry. In 1993, Changan Automobile took over production of the Alto. The Changan 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
1805-478: A raised roof behind the front seats. This was unusual in that it used a modification of the five-door Alto's body rather than a completely new body, allowing Suzuki to market it as part of the Alto family. Its appearance was similar to the Nissan AD Max van . The Hustle was short-lived, only being offered between November 1991 and October 1993. The engine options were mostly as for other Altos, albeit without
1900-805: A redesigned front end, with more sculpted headlights. This spelled the end for the F10-engined model, while the F8-engined Alto was replaced by the all-new Alto 800 in late 2012. The Alto K10 remained in production until 2014. This model, using the fuel injected 1061 cc F10D engine , entered the European market at the March 2002 Geneva Motor Show . Being built in India by Maruti, it was only available with five doors, unlike earlier Maruti Zen-based Altos in Europe. Unlike in India, European model Alto
1995-465: A single-carburetted 543 cc (33.1 cu in) engine with 19.2 kW (26.1 PS; 25.7 bhp) at 6000 rpm and 35 N⋅m (26 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm. The side rear windows were covered with fibreglass by default, with a glass panels optional. The only other option was air conditioning. The Hatch was by far the cheapest new car sold in Australia at the time, although equipment
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#17327981170962090-484: A standard five-speed transmission. A three-speed automatic was also available. In a period test, this model reached the 0–100 km/h benchmark in 15.9 seconds and a top speed of 148 km/h (92 mph). A very limited production version for competition purposes arrived in 1992, called the Alto Works R. This was a lightened, strict two-seater with four-wheel-drive, a close-ratio five-speed transmission, and
2185-474: A three-door van. The Works model was also reclassified as a sedan, as many advantages for light commercial cars had vanished. The tailgate and rear doors are still fairly angular, but the front was more rounded than previous models. In March 1995, the Alto Sv model appeared. This was a special fuel economy model, well equipped with air conditioning, power steering, AM/FM cassette stereo, etc. The "Alto With",
2280-406: A three-speed automatic rather than the two-speed unit that had been used before. Most export markets received the passenger car version, which would have been badged "Suzuki Fronte" in Japan, but were usually sold as Altos abroad. When equipped with the 543 cc F5A engine, the export model code is SB305 . Most cars sold outside of Japan, however, received the larger (0.8 litres) F8B engine and
2375-463: A tuned engine - although official output remained 64 PS (47 kW), as required by the Kei regulations. The car has an adjusted ECU and a free-flow Suzuki Sport RHB31 turbocharger, as well as a different throttle body. Less than a hundred were built, although it continued to be available until the arrival of the next generation Alto. This model, without a backseat and with racing bucket seats in front,
2470-407: Is a musical term. When introduced, the Alto was only available as a three-door "light van" and with bare-bones equipment. However, Suzuki generally did not use the "Fronte" badge in export, usually calling all versions "Alto" abroad. Most early export Altos were thus technically speaking rebadged Suzuki Frontes. These were exported with changes such as enlarged engines, sometimes modified bodywork. Thus
2565-491: Is a three-door cargo version of the Fronte passenger car, equipped with a folding rear seat. Front suspension comprised coils struts , with leaf springs at the back. The steering was of the recirculating ball type, and four-wheel drums were used. On introduction, the Alto received the T5B two-stroke 539 cc (32.9 cu in) (SS30) three-cylinder engine, producing 28 PS (21 kW) at 5500 rpm. The Alto
2660-772: Is actually a different car from the Japanese market one although they share the same name. The car is manufactured exclusively in Haryana , India and is exported worldwide. It is available in some European markets with a somewhat different front end as the Nissan Pixo. The car was rolled out to the Indian customers in December 2008 and exports began in April 2009. With a totally new body and engine, Maruti hopes to bring freshness to
2755-420: Is not equipped with airbags, front seatbelts with pretensioner, ISOFIX or ABS. A new version of the Alto called the Alto 800 was released in the Indian car market on 16 October 2012. The Alto 800, model code AOD308, is still based on the previous generation's platform (which is still based on the 1998 Alto kei car ) and has all-new bodywork and interior. It replaced the first generation Maruti Alto (although
2850-537: The MLIT requirements to be classified as an "excellent low emissions vehicle". The retro-style Alto C was also discontinued. In February 2001 a new retro version was introduced, the Alto C2. Unlike the earlier C, this one had the same headlights as other Altos and did not have the chrome detailing of the earlier version. Front- or four-wheel-drive, manual and automatic transmissions were available (no more CVT ), in either
2945-634: The Maruti Suzuki Alto (model code RF) in September 2000 and was built there until 2014. From 2002 until 2009 Maruti-built Altos were exported to Europe as Suzuki Altos; sales continued in Latin America and other markets until the next generation Maruti Alto took over in 2012. The car is powered with 0.8-litre F8D three-cylinder and 1.1-litre F10D four-cylinder engines with fuel injection. Pakistani production began in 2000 utilizing
Suzuki Mehran - Misplaced Pages Continue
3040-636: The Maruti Suzuki Zen to Europe from India since around 1994, having captured over 40% market share in Belgium and 33% in Netherlands by 1998. The original Alto 800 carries the RF308 chassis code while the three-cylinder K10 is RF310; the four-cylinder export version is RF410. The Alto was seen as a natural successor to the time-tested and equally popular Maruti 800 (MB 308). It included all
3135-645: The R06A engine lifted from the Suzuki MR Wagon and an idling stop function. It is capable of reaching 30.2 km/L (85 mpg ‑imp ; 71 mpg ‑US ) 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
3230-509: The S-Presso . The 800 cc variant was later discontinued in 2023 due to new emission standards. In 2014, an Alto 800 with no airbags and no ABS was crash tested by Global NCAP (similar to Latin NCAP 2013). The car received 0 stars for adult occupant and 2 stars for child occupant. The Alto K10 was launched in India as a new generation on 18 August 2022 after two years of hiatus. It
3325-473: The SB308 model code. The 796 cc, 41 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
3420-420: The " Family Rex ") quickly followed suit with cut-price "commercial" vehicles that were really intended for private use. Suzuki was unable to keep up with demand the first few years, particularly in the home market. The Alto helped Suzuki move into seventh place in Japanese production for cars and trucks. In the last full year of production for this generation, it was still by far the best selling Kei car, with
3515-524: The "Fronte" badge in the Japanese domestic markets), and usually received the 796 cc (48.6 cu in) F8B engine and the SS80 chassis code. The 800 had better performance, and due to the higher possible gearing it saw an improved fuel mileage as well - by about ten percent according to Suzuki. The SS80 was also built in New Zealand, by South Pacific Suzuki Assemblers at a rate of six per day. It
3610-438: 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
3705-492: The 1 million production figure in February 2008 becoming the third Maruti model to cross the million mark in India after Maruti 800 and Maruti Omni and fourth overall joining Hyundai Santro . As of 2024, the Alto is the only one car in India has ever sold over 5 million units. The first generation was launched to the local Indian market on 27 September 2000 although the Alto nameplate had been successfully used to export
3800-510: 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 later 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 . In December 2000,
3895-537: The Alto K10. The new Maruti Alto K10 is equipped with the company's 1.0-litre, K-series DOHC inline-three petrol engine which also powered the Celerio and Wagon R , mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The 998 cc (60.9 cu in) K10B engine delivers 68 PS (50 kW) of maximum power at 6200 rpm with 90 N⋅m (66 lb⋅ft; 9 kg⋅m) of maximum torque at 3200 rpm. The K10 has
Suzuki Mehran - Misplaced Pages Continue
3990-400: The Alto Works. Citing lower sales and stating that upgrading the design to meet new regulations would not be cost effective, Chang'an ended production of the old Alto on 28 July 2008. A total of 504,861 were built by Chang'an Suzuki between 1993 and 2008. Another version called JN Auto has been built by Jiangnan Auto . As of December 2010 Zotye's Jiangnan Alto is one of the cheapest car in
4085-516: The Alto outselling the passenger-oriented Fronte at a rate of about five to two. In May 1980, a fully automatic two-speed option was added to the Alto SS30. In January 1981, the F5A four-stroke 543 cc (33.1 cu in) from the Fronte was also made available for the Alto; although it only had a single-barrel carburettor , it too put out 28 PS (21 kW) but at 6,000 rpm. Torque
4180-596: 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 re-engineering 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 most of the engines remained as they were, the Alto Van's engines were updated with power output up to 40 PS (29 kW). This
4275-454: 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 a sliding door on the driver's side, the "Slide Slim", intended to simplify entering and exiting in tight spaces. It also made egress easier for
4370-498: The Indian car market, of which it already holds a major share. The 998 cc (60.9 cu in) K10B inline-three engine was developed especially for the new car, and is also used for the Nissan Pixo. The A-Star has a fresh new dashboard, with an available unique protruding tachometer besides the usual meter cowl (only in the ZXi trim). Maruti Suzuki Alto#AOD Since 2006, the Alto has been India's best-selling car and crossed
4465-597: The Japanese SS40 Fronte became the SS80 Alto with a 660 cc engine abroad. The Alto badge gradually took over in Japan as well, as the distinction between kei commercial vehicles and passenger cars was diminished in early 1989. The Fronte line was retired in March 1989. The Alto plate has been used on export versions of various Indian-built derivatives since the early 1990s, as neither cars are restricted by
4560-495: The Japanese and European market from 1984 to 1988. The Mehran remained in production due to its cost effective nature and cheap parts availability. In March 2019, the moniker Mehran officially ended its production after over 30 years of production, replaced by the eighth-generation Alto. Around 1990, the China Ordnance Industries Corporation (COIC, a predecessor company to Norinco ) purchased
4655-480: The Mehran in March 2019, when it was discontinued in favor of the Eighth generation Alto (HA36S) which was introduced later that year. Suzuki Alto The Suzuki Alto ( Japanese : スズキ・アルト , Hepburn : Suzuki Aruto ) is a kei car produced by Suzuki since 1979. The model, currently in its ninth generation, was first introduced in 1979 and has been built in many countries worldwide. The Alto originated as
4750-424: The advantages of the 800 model for Indian car buyers, along with additional features such as power steering, power-assisted braking, and a fifth gear, which the 800 lacked. The Alto's popularity has grown steadily in recent years, largely due to its competitive pricing, which has been reduced thanks to lower excise duties. The Alto became the first car in India to sell over 200,000 units in a single financial year, with
4845-509: The car include front power windows, 12 V power socket, internally adjustable door mirrors, headlamp warning buzzer, key off reminder and gearshift indicator. Powering the 2015 Alto K10 is the same 1.0-litre K10B engine that also powers the Celerio and Wagon R . However, this time it has been tuned to provide better fuel economy, and the new Alto K10 returns an ARAI -certified fuel economy of 24.06 km/L (56.6 mpg US), 15 percent better than
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#17327981170964940-531: The car, in 1992. Jilin Jiangbei lost money on each car built and ended up on the brink of bankruptcy; Xiangtan Jiangnan never got production off the ground, while Xi'an Qinchuan suffered a fire and chose to develop their own design instead (a car called the Qinchuan Flyer ; the company was later made part of BYD Auto ). Chang'an ended up without real competition in the segment. Chang'an's productivity set
5035-518: The car. It was also sold as the Suzuki Alto 800 in many export markets. In May 2016, a refreshed version of Alto 800 was introduced with notable changes to the exterior, interior, features and specifications. The new Maruti Alto 800 comes with improved fuel efficiency and is now capable of returning a mileage of 24.7 km/L (58.1 mpg US) In April 2019, the car received another refresh. The Alto 800 did not comply with BSVI emissions standards and
5130-534: The complete rights and all machinery for manufacturing the SB308 Alto from Suzuki. COIC charged four hitherto military enterprises with manufacturing the Alto: Chongqing Chang'an, Jilin Jiangbei, Xiangtan Jiangnan, and Xi'an Qinchuan were all to switch over to civilian manufacture. Chongqing Chang'an were able to adapt Suzuki's just-in-time manufacturing (JIT) methods and were the first to market
5225-520: The country. From June 1999 to 2018, just under 600,000 Mehrans were sold in Pakistan. The lowest number sold was in 2001, with 5,169 units sold. As compared to other locally assembled cars. By February 2019, Pak Suzuki had taken up the prices to their highest extent, with the basic variant "VX" having a retail price of PKR.825,000 with a choice of three colors – White, Silky Silver, and the darker Graphite Grey. Pak Suzuki finally ended production for
5320-473: The engine was upgraded to the 657 cc (40.1 cu in) ( F6A ), and the Alto became 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 PS (26 kW) engine, while passenger car versions (and the l'Èpo Van) got
5415-402: The exemption from commodity tax. In spite of relentless cost cutting, Suzuki did increase the safety standards with standard equipment not typically found in kei cars at the time, such as three-point belts in front and individually fused headlamps (so that if a fuse were to blow, one headlamp would still work). The Alto's success changed the kei-car market, and other producers such as Subaru (with
5510-463: The fifth generation Alto received a thorough facelift, becoming the HA23 . Front- and four-wheel drive models now used the same chassis number. As the Works and all other turbocharged models were discontinued, naturally aspirated versions of the new K6A became the only ones on offer, with either 54 PS (40 kW) or 46 PS (34 kW) in an especially efficient lean burn iteration. The K6A met
5605-551: The fifth generation Wagon R. With this technology, fuel economy has now improved to 33.0 km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode test cycle. The Suzuki Alto available in international market is known in India as the Maruti Suzuki A-Star (short for "Alto-Star"), but is also known as the Suzuki Celerio in some other countries. It was launched in December 2008 by Suzuki's Indian subsidiary Maruti Suzuki . It
5700-404: The first Works R it was built in less than one-hundred examples, but this one appeared in two series: The Series 2 had sold out by October 1995 and the third series was available from January until September 1998. Unlike the first Works R, this one was a passenger car version (chassis code HB21S) and received the new, lightweight K6A engine. It was lighter than the regular Works RS/R, and the engine
5795-413: The first generation Alto (SS41) on offer. Performance versions of the Alto family first appeared in September 1985, when a fuel injected and turbocharged engine with 44 PS (32 kW) was made available; this could also be had in combination with four-wheel-drive. The Alto Turbo gradually acquired more performance-related modifications until the Alto Works version was introduced in February 1987. This
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#17327981170965890-583: The kei rules and Indian cars are also considerably cheaper than Japanese-built ones. Thus, the European-market models were actually: In 2014, the Suzuki Celerio replaced the Alto in Europe and many other export markets. Outside of the Japanese domestic market, the Alto badge remains used on the second generation of Indian-built Maruti Altos which is generally sold as a Suzuki in export markets. The first generation ( SS30V/40V ), introduced in May 1979,
5985-428: The last 100,000 units sold within just five months. It also became the only car to sell more than 22,000 units in a single month. Maruti's extensive network of dealerships and Authorized Service Centers (MASS) has significantly contributed to the Alto's substantial success in the Indian entry-level car market. Maruti Suzuki India launched a new version of the first generation Alto in the Indian auto market in August 2010,
6080-520: The locally made Chevrolet Wagon R+ . GM Colmotores began building it themselves in 2000 and kept it in production until 2003. The Chevrolet Alto was also exported to Ecuador . The sixth-generation Alto ( HA24 ) was introduced in September 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
6175-414: The mid-2000s. Besides the suspension system that was based on a low-cost, obsolete leaf spring rigid axle, the car had remained almost exactly the same over its 32-year production span, with absolutely no significant changes made to the interior or exterior, other than the gradual reduction in build quality over the years. The vehicle during the last two decades towards its end of production was reminiscent of
6270-700: The old and the infirm. The Slide Slim has two regular doors on the passenger (left) side. This door type wouldn't be used for some time until the arrival of the Toyota Porte and Peugeot 1007 . 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 PS (31 kW) F5B engine known from the SS71 Cervo, but with an added 34 PS (25 kW) 6-valve version in lower-spec versions. A 46 PS (34 kW) DOHC version
6365-623: The old carburetted 1.0-litre F10A four-cylinder engine and also available with CNG variant. The production was halted in 2012. Beginning in mid-1999, and originally imported from Japan, the car was also sold in Colombia as the Chevrolet Alto . As the market for two-door cars was minimal in Colombia, it was only available with five doors. The Colombian model was equipped with a one-litre, sixteen-valve inline-four engine with 65 PS (48 kW) at 6500 rpm, an engine it shared with
6460-419: The outgoing model. The Alto K10 facelift is available with two different transmission; 5-speed manual and 5-speed Auto Gear Shift (AGS) transmission. The AGS is an automated manual transmission technology, which shifts gear with the help of an ECU mapped actuator on pre-defined engine speeds. It also allows driver to shift gears when required. The Alto K10 was discontinued in 2020, being temporarily replaced by
6555-497: The predecessor continued to be produced for a little longer), and while keeping the same 796 cc (48.6 cu in) engine, there have been several modifications. The base price of the Alto, already India's best-selling car, was actually lowered with the new model, as it replaced the venerable Maruti 800 . Various methods were found to lower the price, including lowering the weight of each individual component by one gram each, and also by building their own robots for manufacturing
6650-564: The same facelift as the CA/CB72 did in early 1987 (a little later than in Japan), 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 , which was sold as the Alto until 2002. The Maruti 800 did continue to be available under its own name in Europe until 2004, when it could no longer pass emissions and safety requirements. The Suzuki Alto
6745-415: The turbocharged offerings. The standard model has 40 PS (29 kW), while a 12-valve version has 52 or 55 PS (38 or 40 kW) depending on if it was carburetted or fuel injected. The lowest and highest-powered versions were also available with four-wheel-drive, and there was a bare bones two-seater version (Hu-2) on offer. The fourth-generation Alto ( HA11 ) appeared in November 1994. The design
6840-475: The world, with a price tag of $ 2830. The entry-level model comes with the 796 cc (48.6 cu in) F8B three-cylinder 36 PS (26.5 kW). An inline-four engine with a displacement of 1,051 cc (64.1 cu in) and an output of 52 PS (38.5 kW) was also available. The Jiangnan TT was eventually replaced by the Zotye Z100 in 2010. The third generation ( CL/CM11 ) replaced
6935-492: 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 low price was made possible by a number of Japanese special concessions for commercial vehicles: most notably, the engine was subject to less stringent emissions rules and did not require expensive twin catalysts. Two fewer doors provided another saving, as did
7030-463: Was also available in the Twin Cam Rl . Passenger car versions had the same engines, but all with 2 PS less due to more stringent emissions controls. The fuel-injected, 6-valve, turbocharged Works models came with an SOHC 58 PS (43 kW) engine (FF S/X or 4WD S/R ) or a 64 PS (47 kW) DOHC version (FF RS/X or 4WD RS/R ). The front-wheel-drive Works' were available with
7125-625: Was available with a 3-speed automatic transmission option. The car was discontinued in 2006. Until the late 2010 introduction of the K10 Alto, it was powered by a three-cylinder 796 cc (48.6 cu in) gasoline engine with four valves per cylinder, MPFI and a 32-bit ECM. All models have a five-speed manual transmission. There also used to be a VX/VXi model (RF410) with a four-cylinder 1061-cc engine with 63 PS (46 kW) and 85 N⋅m (9 kg⋅m; 63 lb⋅ft) torque, launched in April 2001. This has now been discontinued, although it
7220-707: Was built in India as the Maruti Suzuki 800 . By 1984, the 800 cc Alto/Fronte (called "FX") were introduced in Pakistan and were locally manufactured by Pak Suzuki Motors along with the 1000 cc Jimny (SJ410). In Australia, the SS40V was sold as the Suzuki Hatch , only available as a two-seat commercial vehicle. This meant it was taxed at 35 percent duty as opposed to 57.5 percent for passenger cars, and sales were not affected by Australia's then- quota on import cars. The Hatch originally offered
7315-518: Was classified as a van and accordingly received the CM22V chassis code, unlike the usual Alto Works. The undercoating and most creature comforts were deleted (although air conditioning remained an option) and the car sat on steel wheels, which made the car about 20 kg (44.09245 lb) lighter than a regular Works RS/R. Suzuki also produced a version of the Alto, known as the Alto Hustle, with
7410-467: Was considerably lower, however, down from 5.3 to 4.2 kg⋅m (52 to 41 N⋅m; 38 to 30 lb⋅ft). 1981 was also when it became available in the United Kingdom, 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
7505-523: Was considerably more powerful - although claimed output remained 64 PS (47 kW) as per the regulations, torque increased from 10.5 to 11.0 kgm (at 3500 rpm for the Series 2, 4000 rpm for the Series 3). Period sources state that the engine's actual output was at least 80 PS (59 kW). The engine received considerable changes over the regular Works, many more than the first Works R. The throttle body and camshafts were different, while
7600-474: Was first shown at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show alongside its sister car, the Mazda Carol. It is available with a 660 cubic centimetres (40 cu in) engine, a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic transmission or a CVT , in FWD or 4WD variants. Under the Japanese 10-15 test cycle, the front-wheel-drive with CVT achieves 24.5 km/litre fuel economy. In 2011, Suzuki launched the Alto Eco variant, that features
7695-544: Was generally more rounded, the shape of the cabin showing the Alto's relationship with the new Suzuki Kei . Suzuki designed the new Alto with an eye to reducing cost, both for themselves and for the end users. To that end, weight was reduced to a minimum, while four-wheel drive models were able to use the same bottom plate as front-wheel drive models. With sales of the 2-seat commercial versions dropping steadily, those versions (Va and Sc, with four-speed manual transmission) were now only built to order. The 658 cc K6A engine
7790-493: Was generally not exported, with most foreign markets instead receiving Alto-badged versions of the Indian-built Maruti Zen . The 657 cc (40.1 cu in) F6A engines were joined by a new high-performance 64 PS (47 kW) 658 cc (40.2 cu in) K6A ( HA21 ) for the Works RS/Z model. Front-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive were offered, in three- or five-door sedans or as
7885-506: Was introduced in New Zealand in March 1980. While Suzuki held on to the two-stroke engine concept for a half decade longer than any of its Japanese competitors, eventually market pressures and ever tightening emissions regulations spelled its end in the Alto by September 1981. The Jimny , however, did use the same 539 cc (32.9 cu in) engine (called LJ50 in the Jimny) as late as 1987. Between 1983 and 1986, this generation Alto
7980-584: Was introduced in September 1984. This generation Alto echoed the design of the GM M-platform that underpinned the 1983 Suzuki Cultus. It continued with the F5A engine of the SS40, 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; until it arrived Suzuki had kept the four-wheel-drive version of
8075-553: Was limited: the buyer received standard vinyl seats and mats and cross ply tires, with the only concession to luxury being a push-button AM radio. M. W. Suzuki in Victoria , Suzuki's distributor for Southern Australia, introduced the "800 pack" in January 1981 that included the 796 cc (48.6 cu in) motor. The pack also added steel-belt radial tyres, 12-inch wheels (up from 10-inch), front-wheel disc brakes and bolder bumpers front and rear. The second generation ( CA71 )
8170-457: Was marked by simplicity, as Suzuki strived to return to making a more basic car. The Slide Slim model, with its sliding door on one side, was discontinued, as were some of the higher end versions of the third generation Alto such as the Regina. The new Wagon R took over much of the more expensive Alto's market share, leaving the Alto to compete at the lower end of the market. The fourth generation
8265-460: Was now also available without a turbocharger, joining the turbocharged version and the familiar 657 cc F6A engines. The HA12 chassis number was for F6A-engined cars; HA22 denotes cars with the K6A engine. The turbocharged Works models were available with a 60 PS F6A engine (Alto i.e., 5MT/3AT/4AT and FWD or AWD) or a 64 PS VVT K6A (RS/Z, 5MT/4AT and FWD or AWD). The front-wheel-drive RS/Z
8360-702: Was only seen in a very few places, namely New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. In most countries the earlier Alto/Fronte was replaced by an Alto-badged Maruti Zen (an Indian-built Suzuki Cervo Mode ). With a 0.8-litre engine the CL11 Alto was built with left-hand-drive in South Korea, Poland, Romania and Uzbekistan as the Daewoo Tico , and also in China by Anchi. When the Kei car standards were changed in 1990,
8455-487: Was originally a special model introduced to celebrate the one millionth Alto produced. The CB model code was not used on the Alto in Japan, as it signifies the passenger car version which was still sold as a Fronte in the home market. In July 1986, the CA/CC71 received a rather thorough facelift. New wraparound headlights, a new dash and interior heralded the new available ITL rear suspension ( I solated T railing L ink),
8550-455: Was produced and sold in India as the Maruti 800 between late 1986 and 2014, succeeding the previous generation which had been built there since 1983. While the car has been long retired in other markets, it remained in production in Pakistan under the moniker Suzuki Mehran . The Pakistani version is essentially a simplified basic rebadged second-generation Suzuki Alto CA/CB91 which was sold in
8645-465: Was sold for longer in certain European countries. The VX model also featured a tachometer not found in lesser Altos. Alto 800 (RF308): Alto 1.1 (RF410): Alto K10 (RF310): The Indian-made K10 version in its most basic Latin American market configuration with no airbags was crash tested by Latin NCAP in 2013. It received 0 stars for the adult occupant and 3 stars for child occupant. The car
8740-489: Was sold with a non-VVT K6A engine when in combination with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it too with a claimed 64 PS. Unique to this generation was a five-door version of the Alto Works. With the December 2000 facelift, the Works versions were discontinued, as the Alto family was realigned strictly 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:
8835-432: 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 five-door body became available on the Alto in October 1985. This was superficially identical to that of the Fronte's , but the rear seat folded flat and it was technically speaking a commercial vehicle. This was the first five-door commercial of its kind in Japan, and
8930-407: Was the model that reached limited exports. The New Zealand version was mostly the same as the Japanese market five-door van model, with a cargo-oriented bare-bones trim combined with the rather soft Japanese suspension settings and light, low-geared steering. Unlike the Japanese models, however, this low spec was coupled to the (carbureted) 12-valve engine with 38.2 kW (52 PS; 51 hp) and
9025-423: Was thus discontinued in 2023 when BSVI Stage II was enforced. Maruti Suzuki then launched a K10-powered version of the second generation Alto (AOD310) on 3 November 2014. Introduced at a base price of Rs. 3.06 Lakh, the next gen Alto K10 comes with multiple exterior and interiors updates, however mechanically it remains same. The car is a somewhat upgraded version of the Alto 800 with a new front fascia comprising
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