The Pixo is the collaborative effort between Nissan and Suzuki. Released as the sister car to the Suzuki Alto, the Pixo shares similar qualities to the Alto in its interior but stands out by sporting a different set of headlights and grille. Other great features of the Pixo that’s similar to the Alto is an affordable price, low running costs, an economical engine, and low insurance rates.

Pros

The Pixo features only one engine, the 1.0-litre petrol at 68bhp. It’s the same model as the Suzuki Alto, reaching 62mph in 13.5 seconds and its maximum speed at 96mph. This manages to fit in a car that weighs 850kg and has a rev range from 2000 to 4000 rpm. This may not be too impressive for sports car users, but those who only need a reliable ride daily won’t need any more from these numbers. The five-speed manual gearbox aids in this performance, as it’s not just nippy on town roads, but also offers a positive shift as you go around town.

Since the Pixo was made to drive through cities and towns, you’ll enjoy the car’s smooth maneuverability, complete visibility, and light steering. Getting through traffic becomes a breeze as the Pixo can ease between breaks and acceleration. The vertical rear end’s positions also aides in vertical rear end parking. Rough and uneven surfaces are also quite a breeze for this car, providing all around comfort for passengers and drivers. Bumps are absorbed easily and body control maintained all throughout the ride. Handling is also a breeze for the Pixo.

The Pixo’s five doors make the vehicle perfect for families that need child seats positioned in the back area. Two adults can also fit in the rear area but it won’t be very comfortable. Thankfully the front area has enough headroom for taller drivers. The cabin also employs top-notch materials only expected of class standards.

Cons

The boot isn’t very large at 129 litres, making it smaller than its competiors such as the Kia Pacanto and Citroen C1. And its space isn’t the only problem: the exterior has a weird shape and a high load lip that gets in the way of placing heavy objects in and out of the boot. You could fold down the rear seats to widen the space, but the floor isn’t very flat when this happens. There are door pockets and a cubby at the front of the gearlever as alternative storage spaces, but even the pockets don’t sport enough space for larger items. And instead of a glovebox, the Pixo features a storage bin.

The flat and narrow seats of the Pixo aren’t very comfortable and the steering wheel doesn’t include reach adjustment. The latter is a big issue for taller drivers with long legs. And although the design uses standard materials, the aesthetics don’t have the imagination demanded of such a top-notch brand. Function takes precedence over form instead of balancing both aspects. The Citroen C1 has a much more attractive dash and will easily trump the Pixo as buyers recall which instantly grabbed their attention.

The Nissan Pixo is a kei car and mini marketed since 1979. This car is produced by Suzuki Motor Corporation, an original equipment manufacturer for some of Nissan’s vehicles. Pixo is also known as the Suzuki Alto, and is rebadged for several other markets. The Pixo is currently on its seventh generation of production.

The first generation 3- and 5-door hatchback was produced from 1979 to 1984. The second generation came out in 1984 and made available in a 2-door coupe body style. Local productions in Europe, Pakistan and China began during this period. The third generation was marketed starting 1988. This was the last generation that was based on Suzuki’s Fronte model. Two bigger versions with 660cc engines were also produced: the Alto/Works and Alto Hustle.

From 1995 to 1998, the fourth generation was produced. A fifth generation was made beginning 1998. This included 2 classic versions: the wider Alto C and the C2. Mazda and Chevrolet began selling the car under rebadged names. In 2000, the Works was discontinued and the Pixo underwent a facelift. An Indian version called the Maruti Alto was also made. When the sixth generation came out in 2004, Pixo was made more affordable.

The current seventh generation 2010 model year has been given a more fuel efficient technology.