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5 things you need to know about the new Suzuki Celerio
Suzuki is no stranger when it comes to offering small, budget friendly, fun-to-drive hatchbacks. While the iconic Swift has to be our favourite, the smaller Celerio is also a worthy consideration within the stable. Suzuki South Africa has recently updated its much loved compact car and we attended the national media launch. Here are key things that you need to know.
Turning heads
From a design perspective, the new Celerio really does attract the eye with its sporty design. The font is bold and eye-catching. We particularly like the deep oval grill with the large S-emblem and chrome highlights that stretch beyond the grille to the teardrop headlamps. From the side, the Celerio has a more accentuated hip line and at the rear, the droplet tail lamps and high-level third brake light round off the design.
We also like the 15” darkened alloy wheels on the top spec model which completes the overall look of the Celerio. It is worth noting that the 2022 Celerio now rides on a new version of Suzuki’s renowned HEARTECT platform. This platform does duty in modern Suzuki models such as the Swift and the upcoming new Baleno, and it is well-regarded for its high structural rigidity, innovative energy dispersion channels for greater impact protection and its low weight.
What about inside?
While some budget-sensitive offerings offer interiors that seem to be lacking in niceties, the Celerio does the opposite. It is jam packed with technology and neat features. We particularly like the new 7” touchscreen infotainment system which is standard on the GL model. This system is equipped with a USB port, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. It also features a host of smart vehicle notifications, alerts and information. The GL model also gains some silver detailing on the centre and side air vent bezels, silver door handles, front and rear electric windows, remote-controlled door locks and front- and rear-mounted speakers.
Practicality
Despite its compact proportions, the Celerio is relatively practical. It features integrated front- and rear seats that optimise space while remaining comfortable. Suzuki has also added a 60:40 split rear seat and reshaped the luggage bay with a flush-fitting parcel shelf, luggage hooks and a deeper base (despite housing a full-sized spare) to increase loading space to 295 litres.
What’s under the hood?
The Celerio has also introduced a new engine, not only for the model but for South Africa in the form of the DuelJet motor. This motor offers multi-point fuel injection from two injectors per cylinder, which allowed Suzuki engineers to offer more efficient combustion and a higher compression ratio. In South Africa, this engine will deliver 49kW at 5500rpm and 89Nm at 3500rpm. The Celerio features a five-speed manual transmission or alternatively, an automated manual transmission (AMT) with the same number of gears.
After-sales value
Rounding off the offering is the fact that the entire Suzuki Celerio range will be sold with Suzuki’s 5 year / 200 000km mechanical warranty and a Roadside Assistance programme for the same period. A 6 year / unlimited anti-corrosion warranty is also included as standard. All models also receive a 2 year / 30 000km service plan as standard.
Also worth a look: the Suzuki Swift and the Suzuki Starts 2025 with Record-Breaking Sales in South Afric.
FAQ
Q: What does the new Suzuki Celerio cost in South Africa?
The new Suzuki Celerio starts from around R199,900 for the base GA model, while the top-spec GL with all the bells and whistles will set you back approximately R229,900, making it one of the most affordable new cars you can buy in SA today.
Q: Is the Suzuki Celerio worth buying in 2024?
Absolutely, the Celerio punches well above its weight class with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and impressive fuel economy of around 4.5L/100km, plus Suzuki's legendary reliability means you'll be driving this little gem for years without major hassles.
Q: How fuel efficient is the new Suzuki Celerio?
The Celerio sips fuel like a lightweight at a braai, achieving an impressive 4.5L/100km in mixed driving conditions thanks to its lightweight HEARTECT platform and efficient 50kW three-cylinder engine.
Q: What features does the Suzuki Celerio GL model include?
The GL model comes loaded with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, front and rear electric windows, remote central locking, 15-inch alloy wheels, and silver interior trim accents.
Q: How does the Suzuki Celerio compare to other budget cars in South Africa?
The Celerio stands out from budget rivals like the Renault Kwid and Datsun Go by offering superior build quality, better standard features, proven reliability, and a more refined driving experience, all while maintaining competitive pricing under R230,000.
Should You Buy It?
The best budget hatchback under R230,000 in South Africa is definitely the new Suzuki Celerio GL. At R229,900, you're getting exceptional value with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, proper build quality thanks to the HEARTECT platform, and Suzuki's bulletproof reliability record. The 4.5L/100km fuel consumption means your wallet will thank you every time you fill up, and the comprehensive warranty coverage gives you peace of mind. If you need affordable, reliable transport that doesn't feel like a penalty box, the Celerio is an absolute yes from us, just go for the GL model to get all the tech goodies that make daily driving a pleasure rather than a chore.
