Suzuki’s classic minicar, the Alto, will undergo a long-awaited full model change into its 10th generation in 2027. The new Alto, which will be the first major overhaul in about six years since the current 9th generation, will feature unprecedented, innovative lightweight technology and improved environmental performance, and is expected to bring a breath of fresh air to the minicar industry.
Should you buy the current model or wait for the new model in 2027? In this article, we’ll provide a thorough analysis based on the latest information.
1. The core of the 2027 new Alto – the challenge of reducing weight by 100 kg
Revolutionary lightweight technology
The biggest feature of the new Alto, revealed at the Suzuki Technology Strategy Presentation in July 2024, is its significant weight reduction of 100 kg compared to the current model . This is more than just a numerical improvement.
Current model’s weight is 680kg → New model aims for 580kg range
This weight reduction is expected to dramatically improve:
- Significant improvement in fuel economy : current 27.7km/L → new model expected to exceed 33km/L
- Improved driving performance : Improved acceleration response and handling
- Reducing manufacturing costs : Maintaining price competitiveness by reducing material costs
Technological innovation that makes weight reduction possible
The weight reduction of the new Alto will be achieved through the following technological approaches:
1. Evolution of the Heartect platform
- Expanded use of high-tensile steel plates
- Reducing unnecessary parts through structural optimization
- Improvement of joining technology
2. Lighter engine weight
- Review of the number of cylinders
- Material Technology Innovation
- Cooling system efficiency
3. Fundamental review of vehicle body design
- Carefully selected resin parts
- Steel is used directly as the exterior
- Considering component necessity in 1g units
2. Current 9th generation Alto’s capabilities and evaluation
The reality of user ratings
Let’s take a look at actual user reviews of the current 9th generation Alto (HA37S):
Highly rated points:
- Fuel efficiency : Achieves 15-20km/L in practical use
- Price competitiveness : Hybrid priced at under 1.3 million yen
- Interior space : Compact yet not cramped
- Ride comfort : Quietness and stability beyond its class
Points to be improved:
- Acceleration performance : Slight delay when starting due to CVT
- Engine variations : NA engine only
- Equipment : Even the highest grades are not enough
Current model price range
- A (ENE-CHARGE) : FF 1,064,000 yen and up
- L (ENE-CHARGE) : FF 1,119,000 yen and up
- HYBRID S : FF 1,218,000 yen and up
- HYBRID X : FF 1,380,000 yen and up
3. Detailed specs of the new Alto
Powertrain
The new Alto is expected to be offered with the following powertrains:
Engine specifications:
- Inline 3-cylinder 660cc naturally aspirated engine
- Maximum output: Around 50ps (currently 49ps)
- Maximum torque: around 6.2 kgm (currently 5.9 kgm)
Hybrid system:
- 48V Super Mild Hybrid (newly adopted)
- Motor output: approx. 3.0ps/4.5kgm
- Equipped with a lithium-ion battery
Fuel economy forecast
Thanks to advances in lightweighting and hybrid technology:
- Target fuel economy : WLTC mode 33km/L or more
- Practical fuel economy : Expected to be around 25-28km/L
safety equipment
Dual Sensor Brake Support II (DSBSII) installed:
- Vehicle and pedestrian detection
- Bicycle and motorcycle detection
- Low speed brake support front and rear
Body size and design
- Maintain basic size : 3395 x 1475 x 1525 mm
- Minimum turning radius : 4.2m (expected improvement)
- Design : Improved aerodynamics while maintaining familiarity
4. Should I wait or should I buy? Points to consider when making a purchase decision
People who should “wait” for the new model
If you:
Fuel efficiency conscious
- High annual mileage (over 10,000km)
- I want to keep gasoline costs to a minimum
- Emphasis on environmental performance
Latest technology oriented
- Seeking the latest safety equipment
- Lightweight design expected to improve driving performance
- I want to experience Suzuki’s technological innovation
Expectations for prices to remain unchanged
- Cost reductions are expected due to weight reduction
- Hope for new technology to be introduced within the current price range
People who should buy the current model
Consider purchasing a current model if:
I need a car immediately
- My current car is not working properly
- I need a car for my new life
- There’s something that can’t wait
Price-conscious
- Expect the current model to drop in price after the new model is released
- Take advantage of the growing selection on the second-hand market
- Want to avoid the risk of initial defects
Current performance is sufficient
- I’m satisfied with the current model for everyday use.
- No special performance improvements are required
- Emphasis on reliability of mature technology
5. Comparative analysis with competitors
Competitive outlook as of 2027
Kei car market around the time of the new Alto release:
Daihatsu Mira e:S
- Estimated price: from 1.1 million yen
- Fuel economy: around 30km/L
- Features: Lightweight body and low price
Honda N-ONE
- Estimated price: from 1.4 million yen
- Fuel economy: around 28km/L
- Features: Unique design and texture
Mitsubishi eK Wagon
- Estimated price: from 1.3 million yen
- Fuel economy: around 29km/L
- Features: Full safety equipment
Advantages of the new Alto
- Overwhelming weight reduction : 100kg reduction
- Fuel economy : Possibility of over 33km/L
- Price competitiveness : Cost reduction through weight reduction
- Suzuki brand : A proven track record and trust in minicars
6. Possibility of Alto Works revival
Current situation and forecast
Currently, the Alto Works is no longer on sale, but there is a possibility of a revival based on the new Alto:
Factors supporting the revival:
- A strong fan base
- Potential of the light sports market
- Possibility of utilizing the lightweight body
Factors hindering recovery:
- Strengthening environmental regulations
- Balance between development costs and sales volume
- The need to respond to electrification
Prediction: Possibility of a limited revival around 2028-2029, one to two years after the release of the new Alto
7. Scenarios by purchase timing
Scenario 1: Buy Now (2024-2025)
merit:
- Instant access to a new car
- Matured quality of the current model
- Price stability before new model release
Cons:
- Missing out on new, innovative technologies
- Lost opportunity for fuel efficiency
- Risk of reduced resale value
Scenario 2: Wait for the new model (2027)
merit:
- Enjoy the benefits of the latest technology
- Significant improvement in fuel efficiency
- Long-term cost performance
Cons:
- 2-3 year waiting period
- Risk of defects in the early stages of release
- Possible price increase
Scenario 3: Wait one year after the new model is released (2028)
merit:
- Confirmed improvement of initial defects
- Accumulation of user ratings
- Benefits of minor changes
Cons:
- Longer waiting periods
- Continued maintenance costs for current car
Summary – What’s the best choice for you?
Checklist for those who should wait for the new model
If three or more of the following apply to you, we recommend waiting for the new model:
- Annual mileage is over 10,000km
- Emphasis on economic benefits from improved fuel efficiency
- Seeking the latest safety equipment
- Can be used in your current car for 2-3 years without any issues
- Interested in improving driving performance through weight reduction
- Emphasis on environmental performance
- Hopes for Suzuki’s technological innovation
Current Model Purchase Checklist
Consider buying a current model if you answer yes to three or more of the following questions:
- I need a car now
- Price is the top priority
- Prioritizing reliability over new technology
- Low annual mileage (less than 5,000km)
- Want to avoid the risk of initial defects in new models
- Current performance is satisfactory
- I would also like to consider options in the used car market.
Final Criteria
The new Alto will undoubtedly be an attractive evolution. The 100kg weight reduction is a groundbreaking improvement in the history of minicars, and the improvements in fuel economy and driving performance offer great value.
However, choosing to wait comes with costs. You need to consider the maintenance costs of your current car, the opportunity loss, and most importantly, the time cost of 2-3 years.
It’s important to make the choice that best suits your situation . Use the information in this article to help you make the best decision based on your lifestyle, budget, and vehicle requirements.
With just two years left until the release of the new Alto, expectations are high for the dawn of a new chapter in the minicar industry, as we wonder what results Suzuki’s ambitious lightweighting technology will bring.
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