New Alto To Be Lighter & More Fuel Efficient – 30+ Kmpl Mileage
by Surendhar M · GaadiWaadi.comThe next generation Suzuki Alto will reportedly be lighter as well as more fuel-efficient with an economy of well over 30 kmpl
Suzuki’s iconic Alto has long been a cornerstone of its mini car lineup, alongside the Wagon R not just in India but in Japan as well. Enthusiasts are now eager to know when the next iteration of this model will debut and what innovative features it might introduce. Here’s everything currently known about the upcoming Alto from media sources in Japan.
The first Alto, launched in May 1979 in Japan, was a game-changer with its lightweight design and groundbreaking price tag. Over the years, this compact car has continued to evolve, maintaining its reputation for affordability and efficiency. At Suzuki’s “Technical Strategy Briefing” in July 2024, the company set a bold target for the 10th generation Alto: a 100 kg reduction in weight compared to the current model.
This is a significant challenge in an era where cars typically become heavier due to advanced safety features and driver assistance systems. The current Alto weighs between 680 kg and 760 kg, making it exceptionally light by today’s standards. Reducing the weight to a range of 580 kg to 660 kg would put it on par with the 3rd generation model, which lacked modern features like airbags. Achieving this weight reduction involves innovations such as the HEARTECT platform and increased use of resin components.
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This not only enhances fuel efficiency but also improves driving dynamics and reduces carbon emissions. Fuel economy is expected to see a substantial improvement as well. The present Alto delivers a WLTC mileage of 25.2 kmpl for petrol variants and 27.7 kmpl for mild hybrid models. The upcoming version could surpass 30 kmpl, thanks to a combination of weight reduction and a new 48V mild hybrid system according to reports.
This upgrade marks a significant improvement over Suzuki’s existing 12V mild hybrid technology in Japan, offering enhanced motor output while maintaining compactness and efficiency. Currently, the Alto starts at 1,068,000 yen (Rs. 5.82 lakh) for petrol variants and 1,218,800 yen (Rs. 6.64 lakh) for mild hybrids and we expect similar mechanical updates to be available in the Indian model too in the future.
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With the anticipated advancements, Suzuki aims to position the new Alto as an affordable, fuel-efficient choice, potentially breaking the 1 million yen (Rs. 5.45 lakh) price barrier. The Japanese market now awaits to see if the new model will replicate the revolutionary impact of the original Alto’s debut.