HOSHIKURA with the all-new Swift Dzire subcompact sedan
If you fancy cars with small engines and constantly worry about fuel mileage, it’s about time to check out Suzuki’s two new models (both below the P600,000 price tag): the Swift Dzire and the Alto 800.
Previewed in the recent Manila International Auto Show 2013, the two subcompact models were officially unveiled last April 27 at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
Looking for an affordable subcompact car with a price tag of just P388,000 (standard variant) and P438,000 (deluxe variant), the cost-efficient Alto 800 could be the car for you.
The India-made subcompact car is powered by an 800-cc (0.8 liter), 3-cylinder gasoline engine that generates 47 horsepower and 68 Nm of torque. In comparison, this car is 15-percent more fuel-efficient (averages 22.74 kpl) and has 11 percent more torque than the previous Alto.
“With the rising cost of gasoline these days, many Filipinos are looking for smaller cars that use less fuel. We believe, compact cars are now a booming sector of the auto industry because high fuel prices will continue to significantly impact driver behavior and future vehicle purchase decisions,” noted Suzuki Philippines automobile sales marketing division general manager Shuzo Hoshikura.
Hoshikura also presented the all-new Swift Dzire sedan, the affordable version of the sporty-looking Swift. With 169,571 units sold last year, this particular variant is one of the best-selling cars in India.
The P568,000 Swift Dzire is powered by a 1.2-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine that generates 86 hp and 114 Nm of torque. This makes the Dzire more attractive to the current Swift hatch that costs P729,000 (the more sporty variant is powered by a more powerful 1.4-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine that generates 94 hp and 130 Nm of torque).
While the two Swift variants have the same wheelbase (2.43 m) and width (1.695 m), the Dzire is shorter by 45.5 cm but taller by 14 cm. It also offers more storage at the back with 316 liters of luggage space.
While the Alto 800 is initially available only in 5-speed manual, the Swift Dzire is available in 5-speed manual as well as 4-speed automatic.
THE ALL-NEW Alto 800 goes well with Suzuki’s commitment to deliver great value cars.
“Moreover, the Swift Dzire is built to cater to those who are after better fuel efficiency at more than 20 kpl,” Hoshikura said.
Already updated, the Alto 800 comes with a characteristic Wavefront design highlighted by smooth long curves and prominent wheel arches that add volume to the side stance.
Suzuki Philippines president Satoshi Uchida shared that the Alto 800 and the Swift Dzire go well with the company’s commitment to deliver great value cars to the local market. “With these latest additions to our lineup, we hope to bring more pleasant and eco-friendly driving experiences to our Filipino customers.”
While the Alto 800 STD (Standard) will be offered in Silver and White colors the Alto 800 DLX (Deluxe) will be available in Red, Gray, Blue and White. The Swift Dzire will come in blue, gray, silver and white colors.
Photos by Charles E. Buban