Mehran has been more than just a car for Pakistan. For decades, it represented affordability, durability, and accessibility. Known as the go-to budget car, it became a household name for families looking for a practical and reliable vehicle. Although discontinued in 2019, the Suzuki Mehran still holds a special place in the hearts of millions.
In this article, we will explore its history, technical specifications, advantages, limitations, and lasting legacy.
History and Evolution of Suzuki Mehran
The journey of Mehran began in 1989 when it was launched as a locally assembled version of the second-generation Suzuki Alto. Known for its small size and simple build, it quickly became a perfect city car for Pakistan’s roads. The car was introduced with a carburetor-based 800 cc engine, making it cheap to run and easy to maintain.
Over the years, Mehran received only minor updates. In 1998 and 2004, small cosmetic facelifts were introduced, but the overall structure remained the same. The biggest change came in 2013 when the carburetor was replaced with an EFI engine to meet Euro-II standards. Despite its age, it remained in production until March 2019, when it was finally discontinued and replaced by the new Suzuki Alto.
Technical Specifications of Suzuki Mehran
Mehran was powered by an 800 cc F8B three-cylinder engine. Initially, it used a carburetor system, which was later replaced with an EFI engine for better fuel efficiency and emission control. The car produced about 39 horsepower, with a top speed close to 140 km/h.
In terms of fuel economy, the Mehran delivered around 13 km per litre in the city and up to 18 km per litre on highways, which made it one of the most fuel-efficient budget cars in its category. Its compact design, measuring just over 3.3 meters in length, made it an excellent choice for congested city driving.
Why Mehran Endured for Decades?
The enduring success of the Suzuki Mehran came down to a few key factors. First, it was extremely affordable, both in purchase price and running costs. Spare parts were cheap and available in every corner of the country. This accessibility made it easier for owners to maintain the car without worrying about high service charges.
Another reason was its simple design. The car could be repaired by almost any local mechanic, and most people knew how to handle its basic issues. For families and students, it was a practical option, combining fuel efficiency with easy ownership.
Drawbacks of the Mehran
Despite its popularity, Mehran had several shortcomings. Its design became outdated very quickly, with almost no modern safety or comfort features. The car lacked airbags, anti-lock brakes, and rear seat belts in its early years. Its suspension and brakes were basic, and critics often considered it unsafe compared to modern vehicles.
Another drawback was the rising cost. Even though the Suzuki Mehran had no significant technological improvements over the decades, its price increased steadily. By 2019, the price reached over 800,000 PKR, which made it less appealing compared to newer alternatives offering far better features.
Legacy and Market Impact
The Mehran sold nearly 600,000 units between 1999 and 2018, making it one of the most successful cars in Pakistan’s history. Its impact was so strong that for many, owning a Mehran became a symbol of financial independence. Even after being discontinued, its resale value remained strong due to the high demand for second-hand units.
The replacement of the Suzuki Mehran with the Suzuki Alto marked the end of an era. However, its legacy as Pakistan’s most loved budget car continues to live on.
FAQs
Why was Mehran so popular in Pakistan?
Mehran became popular because it was affordable, easy to maintain, and fuel-efficient. Spare parts were cheap and widely available, making them accessible to families from all backgrounds. Its small size and simple mechanics also made it suitable for city driving.
When was the Suzuki Mehran discontinued?
Mehran was officially discontinued in March 2019 after nearly three decades of production. The decision was made to replace it with the new Suzuki Alto, which offered modern features, improved safety, and better technology.
Was Mehran fuel-efficient?
Yes, the Mehran was considered very fuel-efficient for its time. The EFI models delivered around 13 km per litre in city conditions and up to 18 km per litre on highways, which made it a top choice for budget-conscious buyers.
What were the biggest drawbacks of Mehran?
The biggest drawbacks of the Mehran were its outdated design and lack of safety features. It had no airbags, no ABS brakes, and limited comfort features. As prices rose, the lack of improvements made it less attractive compared to newer competitors.
What car replaced Mehran?
Mehran was replaced by the eighth-generation Suzuki Alto in 2019. The Alto introduced better safety features, modern styling, and improved performance while continuing the legacy of being an affordable city car for Pakistani buyers.
