Maruti S-Presso VXi Opt AT Review: Most Fuel-Efficient Automatic Mini-SUV | 2024 Guide

Space and Practicality

- Dimensions: 3565mm (L) x 1520mm (W) x 1567mm (H)

- Wheelbase: 2380mm

- Seating capacity: 4-5 passengers

- Boot space: 240 liters

- Storage: Bottle holders in front doors, cup holders, shelf above glovebox

Surprisingly spacious interior with good headroom and knee room

Essential Safety Features

- Dual front airbags

- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

- Rear parking sensors

- Child safety locks on rear doors

- Pretensioners and force limiter seatbelts for driver and passenger

- Global NCAP safety rating: 1 star

Basic safety package, though the low NCAP rating is a concern.

Comfort Features

- Air conditioning

- Power steering

- Front power windows

- Accessory power outlet

- Keyless entry

- High seating position for good visibility

Adequate comfort features for its segment, with the high seating position being a notable advantage.

Luxury Convenience

- Keyless entry

- Electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs with integrated turn indicators

- Rear wiper, washer, and defogger

- LED projector headlamps with DRLs

- Automatic headlamp control

Premium features enhancing daily convenience and style.

Fuel Efficiency

At 25.3 kmpl, the S-Presso VXi Opt AT is exceptionally fuel-efficient for an automatic. Let's compare annual fuel costs (assuming 15,000 km driven and ₹100/liter):

- S-Presso VXi Opt AT (25.3 kmpl): ₹59,289

- A car with 20 kmpl efficiency: ₹75,000

- Annual savings: ₹15,711

Significant fuel savings make it an economical choice for daily use.

Basic Infotainment

- SmartPlay Dock audio system

- USB connectivity

- Bluetooth for hands-free calling

- Two front speakers

Basic but functional infotainment setup suitable for essential family needs.

Performance and Drivability

- Engine: 1.0L K10C

- Power: 65.71 bhp at 5500 rpm

- Torque: 89 Nm at 3500 rpm

- 0-100 km/h: Approximately 15-16 seconds

- Transmission: AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)

Decent performance for city driving with the convenience of an automatic transmission.

Ride and Handling

- Front suspension: MacPherson strut with coil spring

- Rear suspension: Torsion beam with coil spring

- Turning radius: 4.5 meters

- Ground clearance: 180mm

- Tires: 165/70 R14

Well-suited for urban conditions with good ground clearance, though ride can be unsettled at higher speeds

Reliability and Service

- Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network

- Generally low maintenance costs

- Simple mechanical layout for better reliability

Excellent after-sales support and reliability, crucial for family car ownership.

Exterior Design and Practicality

- SUV-inspired design with upright pillars and high-set bonnet

- Large hexagonal grille and angular headlights

- High seating position for good visibility

- Color options: Solid Fire Red, Metallic Silky Silver, Pearl Midnight Black, Solid White, Solid Sizzle Orange, Metallic Granite Grey, Pearl Starry Blue

Unique styling that may be polarizing but offers practical benefits like good visibility.

Warranty and After-sales Support

- Standard warranty: 2 years or 40,000 km

- Extended warranty options available

- Wide availability of service centers and affordable spare parts

Robust after-sales support system valuable for family car buyers.

Competitor Comparison

The S-Presso VXi Opt AT competes with rivals like the Renault Kwid AMT, offering:

- Competitive pricing

- Superior fuel efficiency

- Extensive service network

- More refined AMT system

- Unique SUV-inspired styling

However, some rivals may offer more conventional styling or advanced infotainment systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

- Affordable automatic option

- Excellent fuel efficiency (25.3 kmpl)

- Spacious and airy interior

- Easy to drive and park in city conditions

- Maruti's extensive service network

Cons

- Polarizing exterior design

- Basic infotainment system

- 1-star Global NCAP safety rating

- Ride quality can be unsettled at higher speeds

Conclusion

The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso VXi Opt AT’s standout features include excellent fuel efficiency, spacious interior, ease of use in city conditions, and Maruti Suzuki's renowned reliability and service network. Its combination of automatic convenience, unique styling, and affordability makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious urban families.