The Suzuki Alto Works RS Turbo is a Kei car that packs a surprising punch. Designed to meet Japan’s strict Kei car regulations, the Alto Works RS Turbo embodies the spirit of small, lightweight performance, delivering a truly engaging driving experience. Production of the original Alto Works ended in 1999, but Suzuki revived the name in 2015, much to the delight of enthusiasts.
We recently sourced this example for the Case family who have previously gone through our personal import service to obtain a Honda DC5. This Alto was certainly the right spec to buy, being AWD and a manual, it's a future classic in the making.
Under the bonnet lies a feisty 660cc 3-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces the Kei car regulation-limited 63bhp. While this might sound modest on paper, the Alto Works' lightweight frame, tipping the scales at around 720 kilograms, makes every one of those horsepower count.
The turbocharged engine is eager to rev... The additional torque, as well as the turbo whistle, adds a playful character that makes it feel far quicker than the numbers suggest.
The AWD system enhances grip, making the Alto a joy to toss into corners. Its compact dimensions, and low centre of gravity give it go-kart-like agility, while the uprated suspension setup strikes a fine balance between compliance and sportiness. It’s a car that excels on tight city streets, twisty mountain roads, and even rough conditions, thanks to its AWD capabilities.
Inside, the Alto Works RS Turbo surprises with its sporty Recaro seats, providing excellent support and a nod to its performance aspirations. Despite its Kei car size, the cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The analogue dash, red stitching, perforated leather and carbon weave pattern trims all add to create a motorsport-inspired cabin. The Alto features Works badging and decals, it also sits on a set of all-white alloys which completes the rally car appearance.
The Suzuki Alto Works RS Turbo is a testament to the philosophy that fun-to-drive cars don’t have to be expensive or overly powerful. Its blend of turbocharged performance, lightweight agility, and everyday practicality makes it a standout in the kei car category. Whether you're a city dweller looking for an engaging commuter or an enthusiast seeking a quirky, capable machine, the Alto Works RS Turbo is a car that delivers smiles per mile like few others.
If you’re after a rare gem that’s as fun as it is functional then our personal import service is ready to source and supply your very own Alto!
