2013 Suzuki Alto - for your budget I think you mean the Alto instead of Swift, correct? Swift is much more expensive. Alto is a basic car as far as Japanese are concerned but it is their export quality car so it is no doubt better than a Perodua Viva. It has a good chassis, Euro NCAP 3 stars (as oppose to Perodua Viva no stars and untested), safety equipment is front 2 airbags, ABS, EBD and Brake Assist, and 5 years warranty. Its a good and decent package for a new car of this range (normally even ABS also don't have). Maintenance wise you can look up the cost structure here. I think for a lady driver which isn't too concerned on performance and looks -- mainly looking for easy of maintenance and cost effective this would be a good choice -- no need to worry so much coz got 5 years warranty so just pump petrol and use then when reach mileage for service interval just drive to service center and let them settle no need any car knowledge. One issue though is there aren't too many 3S/SC so do find one in your neighbourhood and check it out for yourself before commiting.

Another car in the same range is the Mitsubishi Mirage, more or less similar specs and package but a tad more expensive.
You can make the deal with the dealer on your parents behalf but they will be the ones signing the paper.