Pak Suzuki officially launched the 8th generation Alto 660cc in Pakistan to mark the replacement of their 30-year old 2nd gen Alto aka Mehran. Although the 8th gen Alto is nothing entirely new for our people as the car can be seen running on our roads for at least a couple of years already, thanks to used JDM imports. Let’s try to look at the differences between the local assembled Alto and its JDM counterpart.
The Engine
First is the engine, although both JDM and local assembled Alto are powered by a 660cc 3-cylinder fuel injected unit. There is a difference in terms of the power output being produced. The Japanese Alto comes with both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions, while the turbo version produces 63hp, the non-turbo versions churns out 51hp.
However in case of the local assembled Pak Suzuki Alto, the power output is rated at just 39hp. This has been done probably to cope up with the low quality fuel available in our country. Although the Alto weighs just 670kg, the reduced power output will have its toll on the fuel efficiency. The local Alto 660cc may not be as fuel efficient as its JDM siblings, but still as claimed by Pak Suzuki, it will be able to deliver up to 20km in a liter with ease.
Features
The 8th gen Alto in Pakistan is available in 3 variants, the base VX, the VXR and the flagship VXL AGS. While the Alto VXL AGS is nicely equipped, the VXR and particularly the base VX fall woefully short of equipment.
Related: Suzuki Alto- Then and Now
The VX doesn’t even have air-conditioner, only things worth to mention are power steering, fan/ heater and that’s about it! Interestingly there is a 1-din audio unit but no speakers as far as the specs sheet is concerned.
The VXR version has power steering, air-conditioner, dual airbags and 2-din audio unit with 2 speakers. The top-spec VXL AGS comes with dual airbags, ABS, air-conditioner, multi-tone interior color, touch screen infotainment system, USB/ AUX input, Bluetooth, 2 speakers, power steering, power windows, power retractable mirrors & seat belts with force limiters.
On the other hand the JDM versions are available in X, L, S and Turbo RS variants. And offer additional equipment including alloy wheels, back wipers, adjustable/ multi-function steering wheel, push button engine start/ stop, side mirrors with integrated turn signals, seat height adjustment, heated seats and front & rear spoilers etc.
Safety & Equipment
As mentioned earlier the local assembled Alto VXL AGS is quite nicely equipped however compared to the JDM versions some features are still missing such as EBD with Brake Assist, and Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Related: Understanding JDM, Imported & Local Assembled Cars
Furthermore the JDM Alto is equipped with features such as eco idle, ene-charge regenerative braking system, reversing sensors and collision warning etc all of which remain absent in the local assembled Alto 660cc.
There is one thing worth mentioning, as with the JDM Alto, the 2019 Pak Suzuki Alto 660cc also comes without a spare wheel. Instead the company has provided a tire mending kit that can be used in case there is a puncture. However if you want to put a spare wheel, you will have to buy it separately and to carry it along, you will have to compromise on the space as there is no dedicated slot to place the spare wheel.
Nevertheless, Pak Suzuki Alto still holds the advantage of being a brand new car that is backed by 3-years/ 60,000km warranty. Suzuki also has the largest sales and after sales network in the country and there is no question mark as far as the availability of spares is concerned.
Related: Kia to Start Local Production of Sportage and Picanto From August
The new Alto is available in 7 exciting colors and two interior color combinations– grey for VX and VXR and dual tone- beige/black for VXL. Both VX and VXR are available with 5-speed manual whereas the VXL comes equipped with AGS (Auto Gear Shift) mechanism, the same already available with the Cultus VXL AGS.
The 2019 Pak Suzuki Alto is priced as:
| VX | PKR 9.99 lac |
| VXR | PKR 11.01 lac |
| VXL AGS | PKR 12.95 lac |
Want to share your thoughts on the new Pak Suzuki Alto and its pricing, use the comments section below.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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