Suzuki Alto Third generation
| 1988 to 1994 | |
|---|---|
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| Overview | |
| Also called | Suzuki Fronte Daewoo Tico |
| Production | 1988–1994 |
| Assembly | Kosai, Japan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 547 cc (0.5 L) F5B I3 (petrol) 657 cc (0.7 L) F6A I3 (petrol) |
| Transmission |
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660cc era
Alto/Works
When the Kei car standards were changed in 1990, capacity was increased to 657 cc (F6A) in March, the Alto becoming the CL/CM/CN/CP21 in the process. The new standards also allowed for a 100 mm (3.9 in) longer car, which meant new bigger front and rear bumper, and new headlights and grille. Lower grade Van versions received a 6-valve 36 hp (27 kW) engine, while passenger car versions (and the l'Èpo Van) got a 12-valve, 52 hp (39 kW) version. 4WD versions with the 3-speed automatic transmission were fuel-injected and offered 3 more hp. The F6A-engined Works RS/X and RS/R still claimed the legally limited 64 hp, but the lower grade i.e. Turbo (introduced in July) received a 6-valve SOHC-engine producing 61 hp (45 kW) Reflecting decreased tax benefits for commercial Kei cars, the Works series was now classified as passenger vehicles, allowing for a real backseat.
In September 1991, responding to increasing safety demands, the Alto received side impact protection. Also, the vertical door handles (see picture on the right) on three-door versions were replaced by traditional horizontal ones. The reengineering was extensive enough to necessitate new model codes, with vans becoming CL/CM22 (FF/4WD) and passenger versions (including the Works) now called CR/CS22. While performance engines remained as they were, the "cooking" Alto's engines were updated with power outputs up to 40 and 52 hp respectively (29/38 kW).
Alto Hustle
Suzuki also produced a version (the Hustle) with a high roof behind the front seats, which was unusual in that it used a modification of the five-door Alto's body rather than a completely new body; this made it possible to link the Hustle with the Alto, but made the styling rather unharmonious. Its appearance was similar to the Nissan AD Max van. It was short-lived, only being offered between November 1991 and October 1993.
