Suzuki launches remodeled Alto

Suzuki Motor Corp. has launched the fully remodeled Alto mini-vehicle with improved fuel efficiency in the Japanese market. The Alto, which debuted in 1979, underwent the full model changeover for the first time in five years. It is Suzuki’s flagship model with cumulative global sales of more than 10 million units. The seventh-generation Alto is 15% more fuel-efficient than previous models, as it can run 24.5 kilometers on a liter of gasoline. Prices range from 677,250-1,157,100 yen (US$7,620.57-US$13,019.94). With the improved fuel economy and low cost, Suzuki hopes that the new Alto will attract demand from a wide range of drivers. Suzuki aims to sell 7,000 units of the Alto per month. (December 16, 2009)