Suzuki Mehran

Suzuki Mehran – Pakistan’s Iconic Budget Car

The Suzuki Mehran is one of the most well-known and widely used cars in Pakistan. Produced by Pak Suzuki Motors, the Mehran remained in production from 1989 to 2019 and became a symbol of affordability, reliability, and simplicity. Even after its discontinuation, it remains popular in the used car market due to its low maintenance costs and high resale value.

Exterior Design

The design of the Suzuki Mehran is very basic and functional. It has a boxy shape, small headlights, and a simple front grille. Over the years, the design stayed mostly the same, with only minor updates like clear headlights and slightly modernized bumpers in later models.

The compact size of the Mehran makes it ideal for narrow streets and tight parking spaces, especially in congested urban areas.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the Mehran is extremely simple. It offers seating for four adults with basic fabric-covered seats. There is no infotainment system in the standard variant, and features like power windows, power steering, or air conditioning were either optional or only available in the Mehran VX or VXR variants.

Interior highlights (depending on the variant) may include:

• Manual windows and locks
• Basic instrument cluster
• Minimal dashboard layout
• Optional air conditioner in VXR variant

The comfort level is limited, but acceptable for short city drives.

Engine and Performance

The Mehran is powered by an 800cc 3-cylinder petrol engine (F8B). It delivers modest performance but is well-suited for city driving and short-distance travel. The car comes with a 4-speed manual transmission, and there is no automatic version.

Despite its low power, the lightweight body makes it easy to handle and very fuel-efficient.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of the Suzuki Mehran is its excellent fuel economy. It typically offers around 14 to 18 km/l, depending on road conditions and maintenance. This makes it an affordable option for everyday commuting.

Safety Features

The Suzuki Mehran does not include modern safety features. It lacks airbags, ABS, or advanced braking systems. The only safety basics it offers are:

• Seat belts
• Basic braking system
• Side mirrors

Due to its outdated safety standards, it’s not recommended for high-speed or highway use.

Maintenance and Spare Parts

The Mehran is extremely easy and cheap to maintain. Its spare parts are widely available and inexpensive, and almost every local mechanic in Pakistan knows how to repair it. This makes it the cheapest car to own and maintain in the country.

Conclusion

The Suzuki Mehran is a budget-friendly car that served millions of Pakistanis for three decades. It may lack comfort and modern features, but it delivers low running costs, simple mechanics, and excellent fuel economy. It’s best suited for first-time buyers, students, or those who want a reliable car for basic daily use.