A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.8/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.2
Comfort & Interior
3.5
Running Costs
4.8
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for an affordable city car that won’t break the bank? The Suzuki Celerio might be exactly what you need for urban driving and tight budgets. This compact hatchback positions itself as one of the most budget friendly options in the small car segment, competing directly with rivals like the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto. The Celerio focuses on simplicity and practicality rather than luxury, making it an ideal choice for first time buyers, young drivers, or anyone seeking basic reliable transport.
What sets the Celerio apart is its impressive fuel economy and low running costs. With claimed fuel consumption figures of up to 65 mpg, it’s designed to keep your weekly fuel bills to a minimum. The lightweight construction and efficient petrol engine deliver surprisingly peppy performance around town, while the compact dimensions make parking in tight city spaces effortless. Inside, you’ll find a no nonsense interior with essential features rather than premium materials.
The Suzuki Celerio appeals to drivers who prioritise value over luxury. It’s perfect for students, new drivers, or anyone needing affordable reliable transport without the complexity of modern premium cars. While it may not offer the refinement of more expensive alternatives, the Celerio delivers excellent value for money with flexible finance options available to suit most budgets.
What's the Suzuki Celerio Like to Drive?
The Suzuki Celerio is designed for efficiency first, excitement second. The 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine produces a modest 67 horsepower, which is adequate for urban driving and light motorway use. The 0-60 mph time of around 13.7 seconds tells you everything you need to know about its leisurely acceleration. However, the car’s light weight means it feels more responsive than the numbers suggest around town.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.0L 3-cylinder Petrol
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Power Output
67 bhp
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0-60 mph
13.7 seconds
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MPG Combined
55-60 mpg
- Boot Space
- 254 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Suzuki Celerio?
Step inside the Celerio and you’ll find a cabin that’s refreshingly honest about its budget origins. The dashboard is simple and uncluttered, with large, easy-to-read dials and straightforward controls. The materials used are basic hard plastics throughout, but everything feels solidly assembled. The seats are surprisingly comfortable for short to medium journeys, offering decent support despite their simple construction.
A surprisingly spacious and efficient city car. The Celerio delivers genuinely impressive fuel economy and a comfortable ride, making it a smart choice for urban dwellers.
Is the Suzuki Celerio Expensive to Run?
This is where the Suzuki Celerio truly shines. Running costs are exceptionally low across the board. The efficient 1.0-litre engine regularly achieves 55-60 mpg in real-world driving, meaning you’ll spend very little at the fuel pump. Insurance groups are among the lowest available, typically falling into groups 1-3, which makes it ideal for young drivers or anyone wanting cheap cover.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Suzuki Celerio
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Toyota Yaris
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Hyundai i10
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £4,000 | £6,000 | £5,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.0L 67hp | 1.0L 72hp | 1.0L 67hp |
| Power | 67 bhp | 72 bhp | 67 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 13.7 seconds | 13.1 seconds | 14.2 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 58 mpg | 53 mpg | 56 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 254 litres | 286 litres | 252 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Ultra-low running costs, Light weight, Simple controls | Better build quality, More refinement, Hybrid available | Five-year warranty, Modern styling, Good equipment |
Suzuki Celerio Practicality & Boot Space
For such a compact car, the Celerio offers impressive practicality. The 254-litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily accommodating a weekly shop or several small bags. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed, though the loading lip is quite high. Inside the cabin, you’ll find useful storage solutions including door pockets and a central console.
Bought this as my first car and it’s been absolutely brilliant. The fuel costs are tiny and it’s so easy to drive around town. Not fast or fancy, but perfectly reliable and cheap to run.
The Suzuki Celerio stands out in the budget car market by delivering exceptional value and incredibly low running costs. It packages reliable engineering, impressive fuel economy, and surprising practicality into an affordable and easy-to-live-with package. While it may not offer the refinement or equipment levels of pricier rivals, it excels in the areas that matter most to budget-conscious buyers.