Small car expert Suzuki is getting its A-Game on with the launch of its all-new Celerio. Known for its stylish and chic exterior, the all-new model now adds a dose of practicality with the concept of “small on the outside, big on the inside.” It’s the company’s new answer to the country’s fast-growing Sub-B passenger car segment.
“We are very excited to showcase our A+ compact design to the Filipino market. You will all be amazed with the architecture of this model, particularly its best-in-class luggage capacity, superb ease and comfort in driving, and outstanding fuel efficiency. We are confident that this all-new Suzuki Celerio will set a new standard for its kind,” says Hiroshi Suzuki, president of Suzuki Philippines.
Outside, the Celerio features the new expressive “wave grille” along with complex, oversized headlamps. These then flow to the simple and clean side profile for efficient aerodynamics. It’s fitted with 14-inch alloy wheels with 165/65R14 tires.
Sporting an overall length of just 3,600mm, the generous 2,425mm wheelbase along with improved packaging ensures abundant interior space. The big, wide-opening doors ensure easy ingress and egress. It has generous head and shoulder room for its four or even five occupants. Furthermore, it has ample leg and knee room. And of course, with city cars fast becoming the preferred mode of transportation of traffic-stricken Filipinos, it has generous cargo room as well, swallowing 254 liters.
More than just space, it’s also packed with features including power steering, door locks, windows, and mirrors; a multi-function display that resides in the instrument cluster; an integrated audio system with USB and Aux functions; four speakers; and a keyless entry system.
Keeping its dynamic, agile, and easy-to-maneuver design intact, it has an electric power assisted steering that improves both response and fuel efficiency. In the front, it has independent MacPherson struts while at the back is a rear torsion beam axle.
An improved version of the 1.0-liter 12-valve 3-cylinder engine called KB10B is found on all Celerio models. Producing 67 hp at 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, it should make for peppy performance in the city. This engine is mated either to a proven 5-speed manual, or new for 2015, a CVT or Continuously Variable Transmission. The CVT, together with a 35-liter tank, should allow more kilometers between fuel stops.
Finally, it’s also a cut above the rest in terms of safety. Aside from a collapsible steering column, integrated side impact beams, and Suzuki’s patented TECT or Total Effective Control Technology that disperses crash energy away from the cabin, it also comes standard with dual SRS airbags and anti-lock brakes.
The new Celerio is available in eight fun colors: Snow White Pearl, Star Silver Metallic, Mineral Gray Metallic, Super Black Pearl, Ablaze Red Pearl, Cerulean Blue, Sunshine Yellow, and Raspberry Pink. It comes in two models: the 1.0 M/T (P507,000) and the 1.0 CVT (P542,000).