Suzuki Celerio 2018 Philippines: Review, Price, Specs, Interior & More

Suzuki has been building its reputation in the Philippines for decades. Referring to Suzuki, some will immediately name the sporty hatch Swift, the 4x4 Jimny and versatile Vitara. In the meantime, others might think of the functional Super Carry, multi-purpose APV and the 7-seat Ertiga. However, it seems that you have forgotten another Suzuki which is bigger than the Alto 800 but teenier than the Swift. Yes, it’s the Suzuki Celerio.

The second-gen Celerio is now a strong player in the A-segment hatchback

First launched locally in mid-2015, the second-gen Celerio is now a strong player in the A-segment hatchback. Even, it can be put next to the Toyota Wigo and other noted hatches in the market. So, what have made the pint-sized Celerio competitive? Let’s find out together via our Suzuki Celerio 2018 Review.

Suzuki Celerio 2018 in-depth review

>>> Latest update: 2021 Suzuki Celerio: Expectations and what we know so far

When compared to the previous Celerio, the 2018 model appears to look more mature with subtle changes. To tell the truth, the Japanese brand could have definitely made its hot hatch sleeker and a lot funkier. Nevertheless, the Celerio doesn’t need that kind of modification. The vehicle itself is not too boring or too daring, it looks good or at least, that beauty is enough to stand out on the city roads.

The 2018 model appears to look more mature with subtle changes

Looking at the Celerio, the 2-bar chrome grille is seemingly smiling at you every time. Besides, this distinct front is dominated by pronounced headlamps and an angular front bumper.

The beauty is enough to stand out on the city roads

A set of 14-inch alloys is worth noting which adds to the car’s semi-sporty silhouette

As to the side, a set of 14-inch alloys is worth noting which adds to the car’s semi-sporty silhouette. On the other hand, the rear car is adorned by slimmer and captivating taillights.

The rear car is adorned by slimmer and captivating taillights

Overall, the Suzuki Celerio measures 3,600 mm x 1,600 mm x 1,540 mm (L x W x H) and a wheelbase of 2,425 mm. Enclosing this tiny hatch with other contemporaries, it’s certain that the Celerio is one of the most pocket-sized in its class. Despite the size, you will be dazzled once stepping inside, it’s bigger than you’ve expected. Trust us!

>>> Click here to have a fair comparison between the Toyota Wigo and the Suzuki Celerio.

The cabin can sit comfortably 5 people. We admit that the interior capacity is limited, but Suzuki has cleverly taken all advantages of available space by making door panels and front seats skinnier. Towards the rear, short people can park there without trouble.

The interior capacity is limited, but Suzuki has cleverly taken all advantages of available space

As a rule, small vehicles have a low driving position, yet sitting on the Celerio driver’s seat will bring you a totally different driving experience: a more commanding view of the road which results in a better visibility.

In terms of design, the cockpit is ergonomic and sedated

Space for luggage is quite abundant. A volume of 254 liters is enough for you to carry two bags and several backpacks.

A volume of 254 liters is enough for you to carry two bags and several backpacks

In terms of design, the cockpit is ergonomic and sedated. Though there is an abundance of plastic, material on several touch points and on the dash is high-quality.

A more high-tech cabin is exactly what we want to emphasize. A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system is exclusively set up in this vehicle. If the last Celerio is only fitted with a 2-DIN sound system, this new unit also supports Bluetooth connectivity and navigation besides CD, AM/FM, Aux and USB.

A more high-tech cabin is exactly what we want to emphasize

Sadly, there is also a matter here; that is the front cup holders are placed too low.

Suzuki has made the 2018 Celerio of high-strength steel which is lighter but more solid than standard material, so rest assured while in the car.

Being small is already a forte, now parking the Celerio is easier than ever thanks to reverse parking sensors. Dual SRS front airbags, ABS, childproof rear door locks, immobilizer, and side impact beams all converge in this small car.

The Suzuki Celerio 1.0 CVT is propelled by a 1.0L K10B DOHC 3-cylinder engine which can generate 67 PS @ 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm @ 3,500 rpm. Being a top-of-the-line model, power in this variant is fed to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Although the total output is not appreciated, a light weight of 800kg still makes the car easy to maneuver around corners in Manila streets. The acceleration feels some delay at first but when on the move, the ride is smooth and still keeps the revs low.

The 2018 Suzuki Celerio 1.0 CVT is propelled by a 1.0L K10B DOHC 3-cylinder engine

With regard to fuel efficiency, the hatch rates around 11 – 12 km/L of fuel. On the highway, the Celerio also proves that it is a brilliant highway runner. To cite an example, at a steady speed of 80 km/h, our hatchback is still stable and quiet. However, a strong crosswind might be a risk since the car is very light. On the highway, this guy guzzles between 18 -19 km/L.

Not only delivering decent gas mileage, the CVT can likewise be set to “Sport Mode” for quicker response, then bringing a more fun-to-drive feeling. For the most part, ride comfort and handling of the Celerio are both praiseworthy. Driving around city or on highway is absolutely effortless due to an electronically-powered assisted steering which is fairly weighted and is able to give an amount of feedback. Moreover, far-flung wheels and shore wheelbase are very practical while confronting sweeping curves and tight corners. If you have thought of a bouncier ride, you’re wrong as inversely, it’s quiet pliant and comfy even with 4 occupants in car.

The Suzuki Celerio is great but it still has some flaws that need fixing. On the one hand, the 3-cylinder engine is unbalanced, especially at a full standstill in heavy traffic; thence, the car manufacturer should put more sound deadening and vibration absorption. On the other hand, at slow speeds, the CVT appears to be jerky, so we wish it smoother.

The Suzuki Celerio, no doubt, is one of the best city cars for the money in 2018. To get to top-end 1.0 CVT, you just need to pay for less than ₱600,000. In passing, there is a vivid color palette for you to opt for ranging from white to pink.

There is a vivid color palette for you to choose

>>> Click to find complete list of Suzuki Celerio 2018 for sale at best prices

We have just discussing one of the most value-packed A-segment hatchbacks in the Philippine market today. Yes, it is a city hatch that comes loaded with a touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation, and even, reverse parking sensors. So, for those who are seeking to buy your first car on a tight budget, it is highly recommended that you take this one into consideration.

It is highly recommended that you take this Suzuki Celerio into consideration

Lastly, hope that this Suzuki Celerio 2018 Review is helpful to you. To read more in-depth reviews about other sought-after models in the Philippines, please click here.