Following its launch in India last year, the Suzuki Celerio is now making its way to other markets. One of those is the Philippines where the model is slated to be launched in the first quarter, and it looks like the small hatchback is right on schedule.
The small Suzuki hatchback from India has made its way to the Philippines
Spy shots sent by an anonymous source show several units of the new Celerio being offloaded at the Batangas Port. The images comprise frontal views of the vehicle showing the fascia with the new grille bisected by chrome trim, flanked by the redesigned headlamps.
Details of the front bumper are also visible, with a tow hook noticeably fastened near the left foglamp. The hood, roof, A-pillars, beltline, and rocker panels are all covered in a protective film, since the units are still en route to Suzuki Philippines’ holding area and eventual delivery to dealerships.
No information as yet has been disclosed by the automaker regarding the local premiere of the new Celerio, but the model looks to shake up the small hatchback segment. India’s Maruti Suzuki says that the model has been in development for three years.
These units are being prepped for delivery to dealers
Underpinned by the fifth-generation Heartect platform, the latest iteration features a sleeker and more three-dimensional design than the outgoing model. Aside from a fresh exterior, the interior has also been improved for increased legroom as well as a more upmarket vibe.
The India-spec Celerio offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on the 7-inch center touchscreen. It’s also the first Suzuki vehicle to come equipped with the next-generation 1.0-liter K10C 3-cylinder engine with start-stop technology, packing 66 horsepower and 89 Nm of torque. A selection of manual and automated manual gearboxes are offered in its home market, both with five forward gears.
All that's needed now is the final spec sheet for the local version, including pricing
Apart from standard dual airbags and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, the new Celerio is the first in its segment to get hill-hold assist as part of its increased emphasis on safety. We’ll have to wait for an official announcement from Suzuki Philippines to see which features from the Indian version will be carried over to the Philippine release.
Get a sneak peek at upcoming models to be launched locally at Philkotse.com.