SUZUKI Philippines is no stranger when it comes to offering small city cars. Recently, the Japanese automaker has recharged the awareness of its well-received subcompact hatchback by bringing in the all-new Celerio.
Suzuki claims that the Celerio has been one of the mass favorites due to its compact size yet spacious interior. Like its predecessor, the latest generation model takes pride in possessing a small frame yet with a remarkably spacious interior and the fun-to-drive factor that goes with it.
“The All-New Celerio has evolved into a compact car that will make people’s life easier, more convenient, and will allow them to express [their] personality in an age where diversity is expected,” said Norihide Takei, Suzuki Philippines’s general manager for Automobile. “We are confident that the new Celerio will exceed expectations of customers who seek for both practicality and individuality.”
Liquid expression
From the predecessor’s striking look with sharp profiles, Suzuki transitioned the current generation’s look into a three-dimensional with curved surfaces with what the automaker claims are a “liquid expression.” According to Suzuki, it resembles a water surface, deviating from its previous boxy-type body. This new design concept created the illusion of making the exterior frame, particularly the front end, larger to look at.
Meanwhile, the rear has combination lamps positioned on the shoulder lines. The flared rear fenders emphasize wideness and stability. It complements the vehicle’s larger 15-inch black alloy wheels.
Spacious with convenience features
Like the previous generation, the all-new Celerio retained the remarkable spacious interior. According to Suzuki, the new cabin design now exudes an invigorating vibe with instrument panel features that are uniquely designed, like the fresh dashboard layout and aircon vent grilles. A 6.2-inch touch-operated infotainment unit with a clear and responsive anti-glare screen is highlighted in the middle. It also has Weblink 2.0, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity functions with audio controls on steering wheels for convenience.
Space-wise, the latest generation model offers more than generally expected from a subcompact hatchback, whether for the passengers or the luggage area. The vehicle boasts a 295-liter cargo capacity with 60:40 split-folding rear seats to produce more space for sizeable items.
Still fuel-efficient and reliable
Under the hood is an updated and improved 1.0-liter K10C DUALJET gasoline engine. Power output is at 67 horsepower and 89 N-m of maximum torque. Suzuki claims that the updated 1.0L DUALJET engine delivers comprehensive advantages in thermal efficiency resulting from a better compression ratio, dual-injection system, and friction reduction—realizing a high level of balanced dynamic performance and efficiency. To back it up, the all-new Celerio achieved a 28.25 km/L fuel efficiency rating, as observed by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP).
Interestingly, this fuel-efficient motor works with a five-speed manual gearbox with Auto Gear Shift (AGS) transmission options. The AGS transmission is an automated manual transmission featuring Intelligent Shift Control Actuator that automatically operates the shift and clutch to bring convenience to manual driving.
Apart from the AGS transmission, another notable and new feature is the Engine Auto Stop-Start System (EASS). This unique feature shuts off the engine during idle or traffic stops. The feature meets certain conditions to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption and help limit exhaust emissions, including engine noise.
Safety features
For peace of mind, the all-new Celerio offers numerous advanced safety features. The frame design centers on Suzuki’s TECT (Total Effective Control Technology) concept. It is a structural design that efficiently absorbs and disperses the energy in the event of a collision.
Standard safety features include an anti-lock brake system (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Dual Airbags, seatbelt with pre-tensioners, rear parking sensors, and Hill-Hold Control.
Pricing and color availability
The all-new Celerio is available in Arctic White, Glistening Gray, Fire Red, and Speedy Blue Metallic body colors that Suzuki claims to mark the subcompact hatchback segment. Price starts at P708,000 and it is available nationwide in all 73 Suzuki Philippines dealerships.