Maruti Suzuki S-Presso VXi Plus Opt AT Review: Compact SUV-style Auto Hatchback

Enhanced Safety

Safety features include:

- Dual front airbags

- ABS with EBD

- Rear parking sensors

- Child safety locks on rear doors

- Speed-sensing auto door locks and impact-sensing door unlock

- Pretensioners and force limiter seatbelts (front)

Global NCAP safety rating: 1 star

Improved Comfort

Comfort enhancements:

- Air conditioning with heater

- Power steering

- Front power windows

- Keyless entry

- Idle start-stop system

Space Management

- Boot capacity: 240 liters

- Foldable rear seat backrest

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

- Wheelbase: 2380mm

Advanced Infotainment

- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system

- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility

- Bluetooth connectivity

- Two speakers

- Steering-mounted audio controls

Convenience Features

- Keyless entry

- Power adjustable exterior rearview mirrors

- Accessory power outlet

- Adjustable headlamps

- USB connectivity

Performance

- Engine: 1.0L K10C

- Power: 65.71 bhp @ 5500 rpm

- Torque: 89 Nm @ 3500 rpm

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

- Transmission: AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)

Styling

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

- Body-colored bumpers and ORVMs

- 14-inch wheels with full wheel covers

- LED taillights

Fuel Efficiency and Economy

- ARAI certified mileage: 25.3 kmpl

- Fuel tank capacity: 27 liters

- Estimated range: Approximately 683 km on a full tank

- Kerb weight: 736-775 kg

Ride Comfort and Handling

- Suspension: MacPherson strut with coil spring (front), Torsion beam with coil spring (rear)

- Ground clearance: 180mm

- Turning radius: 4.5 meters

Interior Quality and Practicality

- Centre-stacked digital instrument cluster

- Circular centre console housing the infotainment system

- Smart dashboard design with body-colored accents

- Durable fabric upholstery

- Seating capacity: 5 (comfortable for 4)

Reliability and After-Sales Service

Maruti Suzuki is renowned for its extensive service network and reliable vehicles. Maruti offers:

- Standard warranty: 2 years/40,000 km

- Extended warranty options: Up to 5 years/100,000 km

- Service intervals: Every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever is earlier

- Number of service centers: Over 3,500 across India

Competitor Comparison

Compared to rivals like the Renault Kwid AMT:

- Engine: More powerful (65.71 bhp vs 67 bhp for Kwid)

- Ground clearance: Higher (180mm vs 184mm for Kwid)

- Fuel efficiency: 25.3 kmpl vs 22 kmpl for Kwid AMT

- Service network: Maruti's extensive network (3,500+ centers vs Renault's 500+)

Pros and Cons

Pros

- SUV-inspired design with high ground clearance (180mm)

- Spacious and airy interior

- Advanced 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity

- Fuel-efficient automatic transmission (25.3 kmpl)

- Good city maneuverability (4.5m turning radius)

Cons

- Polarizing exterior design

- Limited boot space (240 liters) compared to some rivals

- Absence of rear-view camera or rear power windows

- Basic suspension setup may not be ideal for long highway journeys

- Low Global NCAP safety rating (1 star)

Conclusion

The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso VXi Plus Opt AT offers a compelling package for small families seeking a balance of comfort, features, and automatic convenience in a compact, SUV-inspired package. With its fuel-efficient 1.0L engine (65.71 bhp), impressive mileage (25.3 kmpl), and advanced 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, it stands out in the compact automatic hatchback segment.

While its unconventional design and low safety rating may be concerns for some buyers, the S-Presso VXi Plus Opt AT excels in providing a unique blend of features and styling at an accessible price point, catering well to the evolving needs of small Indian families in urban settings.