New Alto set to call tune

The Suzuki Alto is on the comeback trail. The brand will preview a virtually production-ready replace­ment for its city car at the Geneva Motor Show in March. And the finished model is scheduled to arrive in the UK by the end of 2008.

Bosses have yet to confirm what it will be called, but sources inside the Japanese firm say that it’s likely to keep the Alto badge.

It will be based on an all-new Suzuki platform and feature six airbags as standard. Three engines will be available, including the three-cylinder 1.0-litre from the Splash. It emits 124g/km of CO2 in the supermini, but less than 120g/km in the Alto replacement. Other options comprise a more powerful 1.2-litre petrol unit and a small-capacity diesel.

The newcomer will initially be available as a five-door hatchback, but a sporty three-door will join the line-up in 2009. Prices are expected to start from around £7,000.