2004 Suzuki Alto GL 1.1 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Cheap as chips to run
Faults:
Passenger electric window failed when window was iced up - will need to remove the door panel and fix it at some point.
General Comments:
As part of a new job, I was looking for an economical car to cover the 80 mile round trip. Looked at several diesel models, but as I had a limited budget, the cost of road tax, insurance, and fuel costs put me off.
Wasn't looking for the Alto at all, but came across it at a local dealership. One owner, ten years old with just over 30,000 miles on the clock.
The car averages 55 MPG. The road tax is £30 a year. It's nippy around town and will sit at 70mph on the motorway, although it will take time to get up to speed. A performance car it's not, but then I'm after fuel economy.
I have driven many cars and vans over the years, so I would say it isn't the most luxurious I've driven, but it has central locking, power steering, ABS, and unlike my motorbike, keeps me warm and dry. I worked out it's actually cheaper to run than my bike.
Positive bits - good road holding, great economy, easy to park. Low insurance band.
The negative bits - no steering wheel adjustment. Seats are very unsupportive. Gets blown all over the road in a cross wind. Isn't the quietest of cars at speed. Handbrake occasionally won't release properly. Not the largest of boots, but then it's a city car.
On the dual carriageway I sit at 60mph and watch the world fly past me, only for me to catch them all up at the next queue.
Totally reliable car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 22nd March, 2014
21st May 2021, 17:33
Hi, I've owned a Suzuki Alto 2005 for 12 years and it's the best little car I've had. Can you find an Alto for me (I live on Ynys Mon Gwynedd) as they are hard to find now. Many thanks.