Suzuki's latest Celerio is a significant upgrade over its predecessor in terms of features and its platform, but how does it compare in terms of value when we look at two key rivals?
With a rather steep increase in the cost of living and mobility in general, budget hatchbacks are starting to make more and more sense for consumers, however, with so many entrants to choose from, it can be daunting to choose one. For today’s comparison, we will be comparing the GL-spec Celerio with the base model Toyota Agya and Kia Picanto to determine which offers the best value for money.
Practicality
The Suzuki appears to be the biggest car in this comparison, being the longest, widest and tallest while sporting the largest boot at 295-litres. In second place we find the Agya, which just pips the Picanto with a 260-litre boot versus 255-litres in the Picanto.
Performance
In terms of performance, the trio will all be very similar, with the Suzuki and Toyota being identical in terms of outputs and in terms of weight while the Kia is heavier, but has more torque. When looking at efficiency, the Suzuki appears to be the lightest on fuel, on paper at least.
| Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL | Toyota Agya 1.0 (audio) | Kia Picanto 1.0 Start | |
| Engine | 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol | 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol | 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual | 5-speed manual | 5-speed manual |
| Power | 49 kW | 49 kW | 49 kW |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 89 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Kerb weight | 830kg | 835kg | 957kg |
| CO2 emissions | 92 g/km | 112 g/km | 118 g/km |
| Fuel consumption | 4.4 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km | 5.0 L/100km |
| Price | R194 900 | R196 400 | R198 995 |
*This table was compiled with information sourced from www.duoporta.co.za as well as the official press releases of each model.
Specification
All three models feature the basics, with ABS, dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, airconditioning, front and rear electric windows, an audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and remote central locking.
Both the Suzuki and Toyota get alloy wheels as standard while the former gets rear PDC and a multifunction steering while the Picanto only features the latter. The Toyota’s one unique feature is keyless start.
Safety
The Celerio is yet to be crash tested, but considering its underpinnings and reasonable safety kit, signs seem positive, although we will wait for an official assessment before making a judgement.
The Agya was tested by the ASEAN NCAP and received 4-Stars, with 12.84 points from a possible 16 for adult occupant safety and 82% for child occupant safety. The Picanto received a 3-Star rating from Euro NCAP in 2017, with 79% for adult occupant safety, 64%for child occupant safety, 54% for pedestrian safety and 25% for its safety assistance systems.
Warranty and maintenance
In the warranty department, the Suzuki and Kia are again similar while the Toyota lags behind. The Celerio comes with a 5-year/200 000km car warranty and a 2-year/30 000km service plan. The Toyota gets a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 2-year/20 000km service plan. The Picanto gets a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and a 2-year/30 000km service plan.
Verdict
Looking at the data, all three products are great value for money, but today, the Suzuki edges its by the smallest of margins. The safety of the Celerion will however remain a concern until an official assessment is made.
Sean NurseWith a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.View News & Reviews
