Johannesburg - Suzuki South Africa's entry-level car, the Celerio, has acquired a fresh new look inside and out – all at the same price as before. The A-segment subcompact hatch, which Suzuki describes as SA's 'biggest small car', will retain its promotional five year or 200 000km mechanical warranty as standard.
In both the GA and GL versions, a redesigned front bumper with an integrated lower air intake and wide blacked-out grille gives the little hatchback a more aggressive design, and as before the more expensive GL gets front fog lights. The cosmetic surgery is completed by redesigned wheel covers and a wide rear garnish strip which visually widens the Celerio’s stance on the road.
As before, the GL version is distinguishable from outside by the colour-coded mirrors and door handles and by the addition of chrome accents in the front grille.Inside, a two-tone theme on the dashboard and seats gives the little hatch a splash of colour. This design update serves to create a more spacious feel to the cabin, which Suzuki says remains the largest in the A-segment.
Suzuki has left the list of specifications untouched for both the entry-level GA and more well-equipped GL models. Each offers power steering, air conditioning with pollen filter, vanity mirrors in both sun visors, a security cover and shopping bag hook in the luggage area and a 12V accessory socket as standard. Safety in both versions is taken care of by ABS brakes and dual front airbags.
The GL derivative adds a host of additional comforts including a Bluetooth-enabled audio system with phone integration and USB jack. GA models have been fitted with the necessary wiring and two speakers for optional radio fitment. Other creature comforts in the GL include front and rear electric windows, remote central locking with an integrated security alarm, tilt adjustment for the multi-functional steering wheel, and electric side mirrors.
On the instrument cluster, the GL adds a rev counter and outside temperature gauge. It also has cloth inserts in the doors, a 60/40 split foldable rear bench seat and a day/night rear-view mirror.
The GL version also gets a 2-year/60 000 km service plan included in the price.
Power in the 1-litre three-cylinder normally aspirated engine remains at 55kW and 90Nm, which offers relatively perky performance thanks to the Celerio weighing a flyweight 835kg. As before, owners can choose between a five-speed manual transmission and a five-speed automated manual transmission on the GL version (the GA gets manual only), with Suzuki quoting fuel consumption figures of 4.6 litres per 100km for the AMG and 4.7 on the manual.
PRICES
Celerio 1.0 GA R136 900
Celerio 1.0 GLR153 900
Celerio 1.0 GL ATR168 900