Used Suzuki Alto for sale near Dunmow

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 26.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.0 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 70
Average Price: Around £2,900

Suzuki Alto (2009-2014) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Running costs don't get much lower	Limited space and versatility
Easy to drive and park	Cabin feels rather low-rent
Should be enormously reliable	Not flush with equipment

Quick Summary

The seventh-generation Suzuki Alto (2009-2014) is a small, light, and frugal city car, introduced in the UK with a notably low starting price. Powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine, it offers easy, uncomplicated driving in urban and low-speed environments thanks to light steering and a tiny footprint. While practical for navigating city streets and parking, its 129-litre boot and four-adult seating capacity are somewhat limited compared to rivals, and lower trims lack a split rear seat.

On longer, higher-speed journeys, the Alto's lack of power and refinement can make it tiring. Equipment levels are basic, though higher trims offered air-conditioning and electronic stability control. Its main strength lies in its exceptionally low running costs; the light weight, economical engine (around 50mpg real-world), timing chain, and inexpensive parts (including small, affordable tyres) contribute to minimal expenditure. It’s a highly reliable and affordable choice for those needing a durable car for short trips and city driving.

Best for: Drivers on a budget, those needing a reliable and cheap-to-run city car for short trips and urban use, buyers prioritising low maintenance and insurance costs.

Not ideal for: Buyers who regularly undertake long journeys or motorway driving, those needing ample space or versatility, or those prioritising premium equipment and a high Euro NCAP safety rating.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Alto if: You're on a budget, seeking a reliable and cheap-to-run city car for short trips and urban use, or prioritising low maintenance and insurance costs.

Consider alternatives if: You regularly undertake long journeys or motorway driving, need ample space or versatility, or prioritise premium equipment and a high Euro NCAP safety rating.

Competitive Position: The Suzuki Alto (2009-2014) stands out as an exceptionally affordable, reliable, and economical city car. While it sacrifices interior space, refinement, and motorway comfort compared to some rivals, its incredibly low running costs, ease of driving in urban environments, and straightforward nature make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a durable and practical vehicle for short-distance travel.

Read our full Suzuki Alto Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.