All New Suzuki Solio (MA26/36S)

2016 Suzuki Solio Bandit

2016 Suzuki Solio

Before you ask, yes, this is the all-new Suzuki Solio, and for this latest generation compact MPV made by the same manufacturer that brought you the very fuel-efficient Alto and the unique kei-crossover Hustler, it's now taller than the old model, more roomier, and now, a lot more fuel-efficient with thanks to Suzuki's first ever mild hybrid technology, which is uncanny for the world leader of fuel-efficient vehicles at first.

2016 Suzuki Solio interior

2016 Suzuki Solio Bandit interior

Like the previous model, the Suzuki Solio is available with two different styles; the normal Solio and the rather stylish Solio Bandit, which is ideal for those who want to wear sunglasses at the nightlife. No matter which Solio you'll choose, the keystone pops as you enter inside, which Suzuki says it's now more taller and more roomier than the previous model. Because it's more taller than the old model, it's perfect to fit four basketball players in it after their fourth quarter. Roominess aside, the new model still has more room for your stuff. There's even a sub trunk at the back of the car where you can store some of your stuff discreetly.

2016 Suzuki Solio

2016 Suzuki Solio Bandit

Now, the important bit of the new Solio, which is its performance. Like I said, this new model comes with Suzuki's first ever Mild Hybrid technology that works in tandem with SUZUKI GREEN TECHNOLOGY  Under the hood is Suzuki's brand new K12C Dual Jet engine producing 91PS of power and 118Nm of torque, while coupled with an Integrated Starter Generator, Lithium-ion Battery, an updated idling stop system, and CVT, which is rather unsurprising for an average driver. With these, the fuel economy is now 27.8kmpl based on Japan's JC08 Mode standards.

In the issue of safety, the new Solio comes with the available dual camera brake support system which detects incoming pedestrians and vehicles and it can even engage an auto brake in an event of a pre-collision scenario. There are other safety features such as Lane Departure Warning, Stagger Alarm Function, Preceding Vehicle Start Alert, Emergency Stop Signal that warns drivers at the back, ESP, and 4-wheel ABS.

The brand new Solio starts from 1,454,760 to 2,176,200 Yen while the Bandit starts from 1,825,200 to 2,249,640 Yen.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation