Page 24 - Motoring Autumn 2022

SA LAUNCH SUZUKI

Suzuki Celerio s the baby hatchback in the local Suzuki range, the
Celerio has been a popular choice with buyers in the
Abudget hatchback segment.
The new generation model has recently been launched
and it’s grown up in every respect. The physical dimensions
of the car have increased, with more legroom in the rear, and
a much larger boot of 295l, up from the 235l of the previous
generation.
The new model also adopts many styling cues from other
models in the Suzuki range. In my opinion, it looks much like a
very slightly scaled down version of the Swift.
In the interior, the new version gains a number of features,
starting with the 7-inch touchscreen that includes Apple Carplay
and Andriod Auto connectivity. The auto stop/start and ESP
are features that are unique to Suzuki at this price point in the
market.
The Celerio is based on a lightweight Heartect platform
and weighs only 805kg. The new DualJet 1l 3-cylinder
engine provides 49kW and 89Nm through a 5-speed manual
transmission. An automatic version is also available in the GL
specification.
Suzuki claims fuel consumption of 4.2l/100km for the
automatic and 4.4l/100km for the manual. Based on my
experience of the Suzuki range, their predicted consumption
figures are attainable in the real world which means that the
Celerio is a very frugal car indeed.
On the road, the Celerio is smooth and comfortable, with
all controls being light and easy. As a town car, this is a big
advantage when negotiating traffic - as we did during the launch
run. On the freeway, the little engine is buzzy at speed but the
car feels stable and can maintain cruising speeds with ease.
Prices are from R174 900 for the GA model, R194 900 for the
GL as tested, and R209 900 for the GL automatic. A 2-year/
30 000km service plan is included. n

Click here to watch our full video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61iKvN5NB4A

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