Suzuki has today announced that sales of the new Celerio in the UK and Ireland are to be halted as two test vehicles suffered "total brake failure" during regular tests by What Car? and Autocar magazines.

A statement from Suzuki GB says, "with reference to the condition experienced when carrying out an emergency braking test by a journalist from Autocar magazine on January 30, Suzuki is carrying out an immediate investigation into the cause of this condition."

According to Autocar the brakes failed when they were testing the emergency stop mechanisms, as the car was travelling at 80mph (128.75 km/h). It reported that: "All stopping power was immediately lost upon application of the brakes. The brake pedal became stuck in the fully depressed position and had no effect on the Suzuki's speed. No braking effort could be exerted by forcing the pedal up and reapplying it.

"The combined use of the handbrake and engine braking allowed for controlled deceleration of the Celerio to a safe stop."

Suzuki Ireland has released their statement announcing an immediate recall of Celerio models sold since December 1 2014. According to the manufacturer the safety recall relates to the right-hand drive model of the vehicle and therefore the recall is only in place for Ireland, UK, Australia and New Zealand.

Suzuki is currently contacting their customers via its dealer network. Until the problem is resolved they will be providing loan vehicles to affected customers.