Already a miserly fuel-sipper, Suzuki has boosted the economy of its excellent Alto hatchback by fitting low rolling-resistance tyres.

The new rubber reduces the five-speed manual Alto's average fuel consumption by 2.2 per cent to an incredibly low 4.7l/100kms and also decreases C02 emissions by three per cent to 110g/km. For the four-speed automatic models, fuel consumption reduces by 3.9 per cent to 5.3l/100kms and exhaust emissions are down to 126g/km. 

Combined with its sharp pricing (from $12,490 driveaway for the GL model or $12,990 driveaway for the GLX), the Alto - with Suzuki's hallmark quality and engineering - represents tremendous buying for those on a budget.

Announcing the latest improvements for the Alto, Suzuki Australia's General Manager, Toney Devers said: '(Alto) ranks amongst the greenest vehicles on the planet and has a starting price almost three times less than that of any hybrid vehicle. It is the practical, quality, low-running cost vehicle that offers great performance, high levels of safety and now even better fuel economy.'

Amongst a field of over 600 vehicles, the NSW-based NRMA judged the Alto as Australia's least expensive car to own and operate.

And when you consider Alto comes with a full three year/100,000kms new car warranty, why would those compact car buyers on a budget consider a used car?