Get better fuel efficiency with the Suzuki Alto
With gas prices taking us on a roller-coaster ride from week to week, getting the most miles from every drop of fuel has become a skill that drivers need to master. In 2008, the word “hypermiling” was selected as the best new word of the year by the New Oxford American Dictionary, which defined this as “the attempt to maximize gas mileage by making fuel-conserving adjustments to one’s vehicle and one’s driving techniques.”Although hypermiling techniques are not recommended for street driving, the website www.gasbuddy.com lists the following fuel saving tips.
Avoid high speeds. Since aerodynamic drag increases with speed, driving at 60–80kph (or within the speed limit) can help reduce fuel consumption.
Do not accelerate or brake hard. Smooth driving that comes from paying attention to the road and anticipating traffic, and avoiding sudden acceleration or hard braking can help conserve fuel.
Keep tires properly inflated. Make sure to follow the recommended tire pressure. To know your vehicle’s correct tire pressure, always check the sticker on the driver’s door One tire under-inflated by 2psi can result in a 1% increase in fuel consumption, depending on the load condition of the vehicle.
Service vehicle regularly. Observe the regular preventive maintenance to ensure clean air filters, new spark plugs and proper fluid levels. Make sure to bring in your Suzuki Alto to an accredited Suzuki dealership/service center for the regular service check every 5,000km of use.
Avoid heavy loads. Remove excess luggage and other items that you don’t need as the added weight can take a toll on your fuel efficiency.
Purchase a fuel-efficient vehicle. Of course, choosing the right car is probably the single most important decision that you can take to ensure good fuel economy. The Suzuki Alto is a proven gas miser, having recorded an impressive 34-kilometers per liter in the Department of Energy’s Fuel Economy Run in 2008.
Beyond Fuel Economy
One of the most popular compact cars worldwide, the Suzuki Alto is recognized for its fuel efficiency, stability and affordability. Its compact dimensions make the Suzuki Alto an extremely nimble and agile vehicle, with its small 4.6m turning radius giving it a definite advantage in tight parking spaces. Safety features are not compromised, with 3-point ELR seatbelts, third brake light, and side impact beams. With thoughtful amenities that include an in-dash CD MP3 audio system, powerful airconditioning, a headlamp leveling device, front cupholders and a cargo cover. Exterior features include multi-reflector halogen headlamps, multi-reflector taillights, and rear wiper-washer. The Suzuki Alto Deluxe variant also has electronic power steering, front power windows, power door locks, and color-keyed bumpers.
Possibly the most affordable Japanese brand sub-compact in the Philippine car market, the Suzuki Alto Deluxe and Standard come in superior white, dazzling red, and silky silver metallic colors. The Suzuki Alto Deluxe is priced at P408,000 and the Suzuki Alto Standard is priced at P369,000.
