CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 3.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 70
Average Price: Around £2,700

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 Suzuki Alto (2009-2014) is a small, light, and frugal city car designed for urban environments and short trips. Launched in the UK at just £6,795, it features a three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox. The five-door layout offers 129 litres of boot space and seating for four adults. A 2012 facelift brought minor refinements, including improved efficiency and a new metallic grey colour option. The Alto prioritises affordability and simplicity over premium features or advanced technology.

Running costs are exceptionally low, with manual models achieving up to 64.2mpg and real-world figures around 50mpg. The K10B engine uses a timing chain, eliminating expensive belt replacements and keeping servicing costs minimal. Parts are inexpensive, and the car's light weight means brakes, suspension, and tyres last considerably longer. Insurance and tax are also affordable. However, the Alto feels most at home in town; on motorways and longer journeys, its lack of power, refinement, and comfort become apparent. The cabin is basic, equipment is sparse, and it scored only three stars in Euro NCAP crash testing, which is underwhelming compared to rivals.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing a reliable, economical car for urban commuting and short trips, and those prioritising low running costs above all else.

Not ideal for: Drivers tackling regular motorway journeys, those seeking modern safety ratings, buyers wanting spacious interiors or comprehensive equipment, or anyone uncomfortable with a basic cabin feel.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Alto if: You're on a tight budget, need a reliable and economical car for urban commuting and short trips, and prioritise low running costs above all else.

Consider alternatives if: You regularly tackle motorway journeys, require modern safety ratings, need spacious interiors, want comprehensive equipment, or are uncomfortable with a basic cabin feel.

Competitive Position: The Suzuki Alto (2009-2014) is an exceptionally affordable and economical city car, but it lags behind rivals in several key areas. Whilst its running costs are unbeatable and reliability is assured, competitors like the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto offer superior safety ratings, more equipment, better refinement, and greater versatility without significantly higher purchase prices. The Toyota Aygo provides a similar proposition with slightly better user ratings. The Alto is best suited to budget-conscious buyers seeking a no-frills, dependable runabout for town driving; those wanting a more rounded package should explore alternatives that offer better motorway manners and modern safety standards.

Read our full Suzuki Alto Review

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