SUZUKI has enjoyed plenty of plaudits for the Swift and now it’s looking to have a go at the budget no-frills hatchback market with the Celerio.

Slightly odd name aside, it’s a very simple car, with a very simple range for now and just two price brackets.

The SZ3 is the entry model, at £7,999, while the higher-spec SZ4 is the SZ4 at £8,999.

Both have the same engine, a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, petrol and it’s a neat little unit.

It’s a thrummy, perky little number and, let’s be honest, if anyone should know little engines well it’s Suzuki, who have plenty of experience in fitting them to motorbikes.

The car is well-kitted, even on the base model, with spec including air con, electric front windows, a basic trip computer, USB connection, digital radio, Bluetooth and 14in alloys.

Spend another grand and you can add front fogs, electric door mirrors, speakers in the back and electric rear windows.

Things don’t get much simpler than that and the Celerio does exactly what it says on the tin.

The inside, therefore, is nothing to get too excited about, but it’s comfortable, well-built and everything you need is where you need it.

The drive is good fun, with that little engine humming away and giving you the pull you need when called upon.

It handles neatly, too, and it is a far from dull experience behind the wheel, with responsive steering. The turning circle is also rather impressive.

That engine is an efficient one as well, with free road tax by virtue of 99g/km of CO2 emissions and a claimed combined mpg of 65 – I managed mid-40s in the real world without any problem and a long drive would see this rise.

The Celerio isn’t going to blow your socks off – it’s not meant to – but it performs its function well, getting you around while being very light on your pocket.

Find out more at Balmer Lawn Suzuki, 2-4 Sea Road, Barton on Sea, Hampshire, BH25 7NE. Phone 01425 610641 or visit Suzuki.co.uk/balmerlawn