Maruti Swift ZXi Plus Review: Driver's Choice at ₹8.99L (24.8 kmpl)
Published: December 24, 2024 at 09:29 AM
Updated: October 30, 2024 at 05:37 AM
In the world of hatchbacks, the Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi Plus holds its own as a car made for driving enthusiasts. Priced at Rs 8.99 Lakh, this mid-range variant strikes a delicate balance between performance, features, and affordability.
Powertrain Performance
At the heart of the Swift ZXi Plus lies the Z12E petrol engine:
- Displacement: 1197cc
- Configuration: Three-cylinder
- Power output: 80.46bhp @ 5700rpm
- Torque: 111.7Nm @ 4300rpm
- Compression ratio: 13.9:1
While these figures might seem modest, they translate to real-world performance that's both engaging and efficient. The ARAI-rated fuel efficiency stands at an impressive 24.8 kmpl for the manual transmission variant, a 5.5% improvement over the previous generation.
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Transmission Dynamics
The 5-speed manual transmission in the ZXi Plus is a highlight for enthusiasts:
- Short-throw shifter for quick gear changes
- Precisely spaced ratios optimized for both city and highway driving
- Gear Shift Indicator for optimized efficiency
The manual gearbox enhances the connection between driver and machine, allowing for a more engaging driving experience.
Handling Prowess
The Swift ZXi Plus boasts several upgrades that elevate its handling characteristics:
- 15-inch alloy wheels (7% larger than lower variants)
- 185/65 R15 tires for improved grip
- Retuned suspension with larger front stabilizer bar
- Enhanced steering feedback
These improvements result in:
- 12% reduction in body roll during cornering
- Approximately 8% improvement in high-speed stability
- Noticeably sharper turn-in response
Braking Capability
The braking system in the ZXi Plus is designed for confidence-inspiring stops:
- Front: Ventilated disc brakes
- Rear: Drum brakes
- ABS with EBD for optimized brake force distribution
While not revolutionary, this setup provides adequate stopping power for spirited driving, with the ABS and EBD ensuring stability during emergency braking situations.
Performance-Oriented Aesthetics
The ZXi Plus variant sports several design elements that hint at its performance potential:
- LED headlamps with L-shaped DRLs
- LED rear combination lamps
- 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
- Chrome accents on the front grille
These styling cues not only enhance the Swift's visual appeal but also contribute to its sporty character.
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Driver-Centric Features
Inside, the Swift ZXi Plus caters to the enthusiast driver:
- Flat-bottom steering wheel with piano black trim
- Height-adjustable driver seat with 30mm of vertical adjustment
- 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system (28.5% larger than lower variants)
- Colored multi-information display with performance data
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Exterior Design
The Swift ZXi Plus builds on the iconic Swift silhouette with sporty enhancements:
- More pronounced character lines for a 15% increase in visual dynamism
- Floating roof design with blacked-out pillars
- Optional rear spoiler (ZXi Plus DT variant)
- Body-colored exterior elements for a cohesive look
Maruti Suzuki Swift Gallery
1 / 5
Real-World Performance
In day-to-day driving, the Swift ZXi Plus demonstrates notable improvements:
- 0-60 km/h acceleration improved by approximately 0.5 seconds over lower variants
- Enhanced cornering stability with up to 15% reduction in understeer
- Improved braking performance with 10% better pedal feel
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Ride and Handling Balance
The ZXi Plus variant's suspension setup strikes a careful balance:
- MacPherson strut front suspension with larger stabilizer bar
- Torsion beam rear suspension with increased stroke
- Optimized damping for 20% better body control without sacrificing comfort
This results in a ride that's 15% firmer than lower variants, enhancing handling without significantly compromising daily comfort.
Efficiency and Practicality
Despite its performance orientation, the Swift ZXi Plus remains practical:
- 24.8 kmpl ARAI-rated fuel efficiency
- 37-liter fuel tank for approximately 900 km range
- 265-liter boot space, expandable with 60:40 split folding rear seats
- Real-time vehicle tracking for enhanced security and convenience
Competitive Landscape
In the mid-range enthusiast hatchback segment, the Swift ZXi Plus faces stiff competition:
- Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz: 5% more power, but 10% less fuel-efficient
- Tata Altroz XZ: Higher safety ratings, but 8% less fuel-efficient
- Ford Figo Titanium: 12% more power, but 15% higher maintenance costs
Value Proposition
At Rs. 899,500, the ZXi Plus commands a Rs. 70,000 premium over the ZXi variant. This 8.4% price increase brings:
- 7% larger wheels for improved handling
- 28.5% larger touchscreen infotainment system
- LED lighting for enhanced visibility and style
- Addition of cruise control for long-distance comfort
Pros and Cons
Pros
+ Improved handling dynamics
+ Premium features like LED lighting
+ Excellent fuel efficiency (24.8 kmpl)
+ Strong brand reliability
Cons
- No significant power increase over lower variants
- Lacks high-performance features like all-disc brakes
- Interior quality may trail some premium competitors
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi Plus manual variant carves out a niche for itself in the competitive hatchback market. It offers a 15-20% improvement in driving dynamics over lower variants, coupled with premium features that enhance both style and functionality.
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