Maruti Suzuki Celerio VXi Review: Fuel-Efficient Hatchback Face-off (₹5.83 lakh)

Design and Styling: Cheerful Charm

The Celerio VXi's design is a familiar sight on Indian roads, with its cheerful and rounded aesthetics. Key design elements include:

- Curved and swept-back headlamps

- Oval grille with a chrome bar

- Soft contours along the body

- 14-inch wheels with full covers

- Body-colored door handles and ORVMs

While the design may not turn heads, it's likely to age well.

Performance and Drivability: Efficient City Companion

Under the hood, the Celerio VXi packs a 998cc K10C engine, delivering:

- Power: 65.71 bhp @ 5,500 rpm

- Torque: 89 Nm @ 3,500 rpm

- 0-100 km/h acceleration: ~15 seconds

These numbers translate to adequate performance in urban settings. The light kerb weight contributes to its nimble nature, making it a breeze to maneuver through tight city streets and congested traffic.

Interior and Space: Practicality in a Compact Package

Step inside, and you'll find a cabin that makes clever use of space:

- Seating Capacity: 5 adults (though 4 would be more comfortable)

- Boot Space: 313 liters (expandable with 60:40 split rear seats)

- Winged dashboard design for a touch of style

The textured finish on the dash top enhances perceived quality. While the plastics are hard-wearing rather than premium, they should stand up well to daily use.

Features and Equipment: Mid-Range Essentials

The VXi variant strikes a balance between affordability and feature content. Key offerings include:

- Manual air conditioning

- Power windows (front and rear)

- Tilt-adjustable steering column

- Basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity

- 60:40 split folding rear seat

While it may not be laden with luxuries, it covers the bases for a comfortable daily drive. Think of it as a well-equipped kitchen – it has all the essential tools you need to cook up a storm.

Safety: Essential Protection

Safety features in the Celerio VXi include:

- Dual front airbags

- ABS with EBD

- Rear parking sensors

- ISOFIX child seat mounts

- Child safety locks

While not class-leading, these features provide a fundamental safety net for occupants. It's like having a basic home security system – it covers the essentials to keep you protected.

Ride and Handling: Urban Comfort, Highway Caution

The Celerio VXi's compact dimensions and light weight result in a nimble driving experience:

- City Driving: Excellent maneuverability and easy parking

- Highway Driving: Maintains composure at cruising speeds, but overtaking requires planning

The MacPherson Strut front suspension and Torsion Beam rear suspension are tuned for comfort over Indian roads, soaking up potholes and speed breakers with aplomb. The electric power steering is light, making city driving a breeze.

Fuel Efficiency: A Penny-Pincher's Dream

With an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 25.24 km/l, the Celerio VXi promises to be incredibly light on your pocket:

- Theoretical range on full tank (32 liters): ~810 km

- Cost per kilometer: Approximately ₹1.98 (assuming ₹100/liter of petrol)

This class-leading efficiency makes it an excellent choice for cost-conscious buyers and those with long daily commutes.

After-sales and Warranty: Peace of Mind Guaranteed

Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network is a significant advantage:

- Standard Warranty: 2 years / 40,000 km

- Extended Warranty Options: Up to 5 years / 1,00,000 km

The wide availability of spare parts and affordable service costs further enhance the Celerio's value proposition.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Pros

- Class-leading fuel efficiency (25.24 km/l)

- Spacious interior with versatile boot space

- Good balance of features for its price

- Easy to drive and park in urban settings

- Extensive after-sales network

Cons

- Basic infotainment system without touchscreen

- Interior quality could be better in some areas

- Limited rear seat comfort for long journeys

Conclusion: Economical Choice for Practical Buyers

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio VXi blends class-leading fuel efficiency with practical features and Maruti's reliability, all wrapped in an affordable package.

For urban dwellers looking for a no-nonsense car that prioritizes efficiency and practicality, the Celerio VXi could be the perfect fit.