Suzuki Alto Eco Returns

There's a new frugal kid in town or rather in Japan, the 2012 Suzuki Alto Eco that promises an impressive fuel economy of up to 32km/L (~75.3mpg US or 3.1lt/100km) in the Japanese 10-15 test cycle and 30.0km/L in the JC08 driving cycle.

The most fuel-efficient version of the Alto series is powered by Suzuki's new R06A 0.66-liter three-cylinder engine featuring a start/stop system borrowed from the third-generation MR Wagon. It produces an output of 52-horses at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 63Nm (46.5 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm.

An improved continuously variable transmission (CVT) handles the gear shifting duties powering the front wheels.

The 2012 Alto Eco will be offered in Japan in two trim levels, "S" and "L" with pricing set at 995,000 Yen (US$12,830) and 895,000 Yen (US$11,540) respectively. Sales will start on December 13.

Thanks go to Leopaul D. for the tip!

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