# Suzuki Alto — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Suzuki Alto on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/suzuki-alto

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2012
- **Ideal trim**: SZ3
- **Target mileage**: 50,000–70,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £3,200

## Why this model

The Suzuki Alto is a fantastic little city car if you're looking for something super cheap to buy and run. It's known for being incredibly economical on fuel, easy to park, and surprisingly reliable for its age and price point. It's not going to win any races, but for nipping around town or short commutes, it's a solid, no-frills choice that won't break the bank.

## What you should pay

For a 2012 Suzuki Alto, you should be looking to pay around £3,200 for a decent SZ3 model with average mileage. Prices can vary a bit depending on condition and exact mileage, but anything significantly higher might be overpriced, and anything much lower could signal potential issues. Always check the service history and MOT records.

## Which trim to buy

The SZ3 trim is the sweet spot for the Alto. It adds a few nice-to-haves over the basic SZ, like air conditioning and electric front windows, without significantly bumping up the price. The SZ4 is the top trim and might include alloy wheels and front fog lights, but the extra cost usually isn't worth it for the minimal additional features on such a budget-focused car. The SZ3 gives you the best balance of comfort and value.

## What to check before you buy

- Clutch wear (especially in city driving)
- Exhaust system corrosion
- Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., central locking)
- Rear wheel arch rust (check carefully)

## Running costs

Running an Alto is where it really shines! Fuel costs are very low, averaging around 10-11 pence per mile based on current petrol prices and its excellent 64.2 mpg. Road tax (VED) for a 2012 1.0L model is typically just £20 a year, or even free for some specific low-emission variants. Insurance is usually in the lowest groups, making it very affordable for new drivers or those looking to save money. Expect annual insurance to be in the £300-£500 range, depending on your age and postcode.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 68 bhp
- **Mpg**: 64.2 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Good
- **Safety Rating**: 3/5 stars (Euro NCAP 2009)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SZ | £7,000 | £2,750 | CD player; Power steering; Driver and passenger airbags |
| SZ3 | £8,000 | £3,200 | Air conditioning; Electric front windows; Remote central locking |
| SZ4 | £9,000 | £3,700 | Alloy wheels; Front fog lights; Body-coloured door handles and mirrors |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £3,200 | 100% |
| 2027 | £2,800 | 87.5% |
| 2028 | £2,400 | 75% |
| 2029 | £2,000 | 62.5% |
| 2030 | £1,700 | 53.1% |

The Alto has already gone through its steepest depreciation curve. Buying a 2012 model now means you're getting it at a point where it loses value much slower in absolute terms. You'll still see some depreciation, but it's more gradual, making it a good long-term cheap runner.

Total value lost since new: 60%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Kia Picanto](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-picanto.md)
- [Hyundai i10](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/hyundai-i10.md)
- [Toyota Aygo](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-aygo.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.