Suzuki Celerio

The Suzuki Celerio interior is something you’d expect from a typical B-segment sedan. The minimalist, no-nonsense approach to design is evident on the dashboard layout with traditional AC knobs, a 7-inch multimedia touchscreen, and a typical instrument cluster. What it lacks on driving features the Celerio tries to make up for in space. With its overall height at 1,540 mm and minimum ground clearance at 145 mm, there is enough headroom so passengers don’t feel constricted. The rear seats are split-folding so it is adjustable depending on passenger and cargo needs. And best of all, the Celerio boasts of best in class luggage capacity at 254 liters.

At first glance, the Celerio is something that you’d typically imagine when you think of a compact hatchback. Its small dimensions add to its appeal for people who find practicality on Kei vehicles. At the front, the Celerio comes with a chrome-accented front grille that connects the halogen headlights. For a bit of a masculine look, an imposing air dam with matching fog lights are found at the lower bumper. Crease line accentuates the side but not just for visual appeal, the aerodynamic design of the Celerio adds to its fuel-efficient performance. At the rear are robust taillights and stop lamp on the top. Speaking of the top, the old school antenna is a bit of a turnoff, as it makes the car feel like it’s on the dated side. A shark fin or just a rubber duck antenna would be an improvement.

The Suzuki Celerio is an easy car to drive. Some would even say it’s akin to driving a golf cart because the driver would have to step into the gas pedal to get the optimal torque when accelerating to speed up. Some may get dismayed on the fact that this means this hatch can only give off so much when driving in the highway so performance can be an issue for some. The responsiveness of the steering can be improved as it’s a bit inconsistent at times. Not to the point that it’s unsafe but that the driver has to be intentional when making turns. The noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) insulation can also get a tad of improvement.

The Suzuki Celerio is powered by a K10B 1.0-litre, 3 cylinders, 12-valve, DOHC gasoline engine that delivers a maximum of 67 hp of power at 6,000 rpm and peak torque of 90 Nm at 3,500 rpm. The engine is partnered with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT. The small size of the engine makes it one of the most fuel-efficient cars you can buy in the market today. In fact, the Celerio registers 16 kmpl for city driving while an impressive 24 kmpl for the highway. This makes the Suzuki hatchback attractive vehicles for urban dwellers seeking a practical commuter car that can help users survive the daily grind and traffic in the metro.

When it comes to safety, this Suzuki hatchback comes with the basics. Standard safety features include dual airbags, 3-pt ELR seatbelts, anti-lock brake system (ABS), reverse sensor, childproof rear door locks, ISOFIX tethers, immobilizer, and side-impact beams. There’s no audible seatbelt warning though there is a visual cue on the instrument panel for the driver. There are also no speed-sensing door locks so it is a good practice to be mindful of locking the door before driving, especially if there is a child passenger on board.

For first-time car buyers and for those seeking a commuter car that can take them from point A to point B without much fuss, then the Suzuki Celerio is a good candidate. It may not have many bells and whistles to show for, but it is a utilitarian car that could get things done. And for the price point at Php 500k level, combined with the relatively small engine and roomy enough cabin, makes the Celerio suitable for urban driving where speed is only second to the ability of the car to weave through traffic and navigate congested back streets.