Five Stars Turn Suzuki Rivals Green With Envy

LAVERTON, AUSTRALIA - August 27, 2009: Australia has a new budget beating green vehicle champion – the Suzuki Alto.

Australia’s leading independent motoring website - the Green Vehicle Guide – has ranked the Alto as one the country’s top three green vehicles.

With a combined fuel economy of just 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres, a greenhouse gas rating of 8.5 out of 10 and a similar air pollution rating, the Suzuki Alto joins a select group of cars to score a prestigious five-star efficiency rating.

With a starting price of just $12,490, the Alto is clearly the least expensive on the list, and outscores cars costing two, three and even more than eight times as much.

“Alto was engineered on the concept that people should be able to choose economical, eco-friendly motoring without sacrificing style, comfort, practicality, safety or performance,” says Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers.

“More importantly, we believe drivers should not have to pay a premium price for choosing to help the planet. That is why we made the conscious decision not to use costly technology such as a hybrid powertrain.”

Devers said the new Suzuki Alto puts a quality, environmentally conscious car within reach of all motorists for the first time.

“Alto offers consumers the right choice. It is the answer for people who want a practical, quality, low-running cost vehicle offering great performance, high levels of safety and outstanding fuel economy.

“It meets the lifestyle needs of today's motorists and, as one of the first cars to meet the strict ELV end of vehicle life requirements, meets the pressing global need for environmental compatibility.”

Devers said the new Suzuki Alto was not only the most affordable eco-friendly car on the planet, but also one of the safest.

“No other car offers features including six airbags and ESP stability control for a price that comes close to the Alto.

“Alto now has a five star green car rating to go with its four star ANCAP safety rating to offer customers peace of mind motoring on all fronts,” said Devers.