**Introduction** The Suzuki Alto is a small, practical, efficient, and durable hatchback that has enabled millions of people around the world to own a car due to its affordable price tag. Over 16 million units of the Suzuki Alto have been produced so far, showcasing its popularity and longevity in the automotive industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and different generations of the Suzuki Alto.
**Origins Of The Suzuki Alto** Japanese car manufacturer Suzuki has always focused on producing small, durable, reliable, and efficient cars. The Suzuki Alto was born out of the success of the Suzulight series and the Suzuki Fronte compact sedan. The Suzuki Fronte 800 eventually led to the introduction of the Suzuki Alto, setting the stage for one of the most successful hatchbacks in history.
**First Generation | 1979 – 1984** The Suzuki Alto made its debut in 1979 as a compact cargo hatchback designed for urban Japan. With its affordable price tag and efficient engine options, the first-generation Alto quickly gained popularity as an economical transportation solution for city dwellers.
**Second Generation | 1984 – 2019** The second generation of the Alto, introduced in 1984, featured a more refined exterior design and improvements in engine performance and fuel efficiency. This generation became one of the most successful hatchbacks in Asia and remained in production for 35 years in some markets.
**Third Generation | 1988 – 2001** With the third generation, Suzuki focused on enhancing comfort and driving dynamics, offering updated styling cues and a spacious interior. Production in Japan ended in 1994, but the car was rebadged for other markets and remained in production until 2001.
**Fourth Generation | 1994 – 1998** The fourth generation of the Alto, introduced in 1994, featured advancements in technology, fuel injection systems, and improved aerodynamics, delivering better performance and fuel efficiency. This generation was only produced in Japan.
**Fifth Generation | 1998 – 2014** The fifth generation brought further refinement and innovation to the Alto lineup, offering a sleeker exterior design and new features like power steering and air conditioning. Engine options included inline-3 and inline-4 engines, catering to a wide range of buyers.
**Suzuki Alto 800** In 2012, Maruti Suzuki launched the Alto 800, a hatchback based on the fifth-generation Alto. Powered by inline-3 and inline-4 engines, the Alto 800 remained popular until its production ceased in 2023.
**Sixth Generation | 2004 – 2009** The sixth generation modernized the Alto with a tall-boy stance and improved safety features, catering to the Kei car segment in Japan. It was powered by a 658cc inline-3 engine.
**Seventh Generation | 2009 – 2014** The seventh generation featured a complete redesign, focusing on maximizing interior space and improving comfort. It was wider and offered improved safety features, with engine options including 658cc and 998cc units.
**Eighth Generation | 2014 – Present** The eighth generation showcased a dynamic design language and improvements in connectivity and infotainment, appealing to younger buyers. Turbocharging made a return with the 8th gen Alto, powered by a 658cc inline-3 engine.
**Ninth Generation | 2021 – Present** The ninth generation introduced enhanced safety features and improved fuel efficiency, aligning with environmental concerns. Equipped with a mild-hybrid 658cc inline-3 engine, the latest Alto is only produced in Japan.
**Most Popular Suzuki Alto Generations In The UAE** While the Suzuki Alto may not be a common sight on UAE’s roads, the Suzuki Alto 800 based on the fifth generation platform is the most commonly found model in the country, with some powered by a 1.0-litre engine.
**Suzuki Alto Prices In UAE** The affordability and practicality of the Suzuki Alto make it a popular choice for buyers in the UAE. With its long history, diverse generations, and affordable pricing, the Suzuki Alto continues to be a reliable and efficient option for those looking for a compact hatchback.