We look at the redesigned Suzuki Celerio

The second-generation Suzuki Celerio is here, with new technologies, a class-leading cabin space, a fuel-efficient engine, a new safety facility that beats its competitors. Redesigned from the ground up, Suzuki has underpinned the small hatchback on the same HEARTECT platform we find on the new Swift and Baleno. This means the 2022 Celerio is longer and broader with 295 litres of boot space. It is now 3695mm long (95mm increase) and 1655mm wide (55mm increase).

Suzuki offers the new 2022 Celerio in two variants, GA and GL, both featuring propulsion power through a 1.0-litre naturally-aspirated 3-cylinder DualJet petrol engine. The mill creates 49 kW and 89 Nm of torque and pairs with either a 5-speed manual or an automated manual transmission (AMT). The GA comes equipped with a standard manual gearbox, while the GL is accessible in both manual and automatic.

The focus of this small engine is fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions. If the claimed emission rating of only 84g/km and average fuel efficiency of 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres (for auto variant) is true, Suzuki has achieved this.

The 2022 Celerio boasts fresh integrated front- and rear seats that are more spacious and comfortable. The engineers have also included a 60:40 split rear seat and redesigned the luggage area with a flush-fitting parcel shelf, baggage hooks, and a profound base (despite carrying a standard spare wheel) to improve the boot capacity to 295 litres.

Furthermore, Suzuki has improved the road visibility and installed a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system (typical for the GL variant).

The new-generation touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system also allows you to view smart vehicle reports, warnings, and data like instant and normal fuel efficiency, fuel range, and info of integrated rear parking sensors.

The GA variant has parking sensors, but offers audio information only. Both Celerio variants come equipped with Bluetooth and audio controls on the steering wheel.

The standard amenities for the entry-level model include 14-inch steel wheels, audio controls on the steering wheel, an info display with fuel consumption, and an air conditioner.

The GL model has 15-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured door handles and mirrors, front fog lamps, electric mirrors front and rear, multifunction steering wheel, rev counter. Remote central locking, 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity are included.

Suzuki has made sure the Celerio gains the essential safety equipment starting with the two airbags and a standard electronic stability programme (ESP) - a first in its category. Other safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), rear parking sensors, and ISOfix child-seat anchor points.

The new Celerio gives you peace of mind through its two-year/30,000km service plan and a five-year/200,000km (promotional) mechanical warranty with a matching roadside assistance package.

The 2022 Suzuki Celerio GA starts at R174,900, while the GL manual and GL ATM cost R194,900 and R209,900, respectively. (Prices correct at time of publication.)

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