Maruti Suzuki S-Presso: Maruti Suzuki has unwrapped the completely new S-Presso, which changes the definition of the entry-level car through new-age design and overall proportions along with the first-in-segment features.
With this all-encompassing refresh, traditional expectations of budget vehicles are being thwarted, with the inclusion of upscale characteristics still at a price point that has made the Soul such an enticing choice for first-time car purchasers.
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Maruti Suzuki S-Presso Sophisticated Evolution of the Design
The new S-Presso makes an instant statement with a design that remains friendly on the wallet, yet is no less expressive.
The new grille design is updated with a more prominent honeycomb pattern and finished with a chrome line, showing off a denser and more sophisticated look.
The headlamps feature a sporty look with integrated LED daytime running lights to deliver enhanced visibility while giving the car a premium look that the segment has been lacking.
The side silhouette continues with the S-Presso’s signature upright design, but now gets stronger character lines and new 15-inch alloy wheels on higher trims which fill the wheel arches better.
Body-colored door handles and mirrors now spread across more trim levels, ditching the budget-signaling black plastic bits that had previously marked the base cars.
In the back, you will get LED tail lights instead of the dull ones found in the previous version along with a reworked bumper housing reflector elements for better visibility and a more appealing look. A roof spoiler at the top adds a sporty note and increases aerodynamic stability.
These are many small styling tweaks, but they give the Mazda a more unified look that makes the car look more expensive than its affordable price tag.
Premium Interior Touches
Material quality and feature-content-wise, the revitalised makeover is just as significant on the inside of the S-Presso.
The dash also takes on a flatter design, adorned in silver for a look that’s interesting but not over the top.
Soft-touch materials are present at critical touch points and seats come with slightly more intricate patterns and increased padding density that serves the dual purpose of looking better and boosting comfort.
In the center console, they’ve managed to pare down the infotainment system to a touch screen (7 inches) direct from Audi with Apple Car Play and Android Auto support, which is vital these days – 5 years ago I would have laughed if they said this would be a feature of any class of car.
The system allows access to navigation, media and phone settings using a simple and intuitive interface which minimizes driver distraction.
Climate controls are displayed digitally and are operated with rotary dials that offer feedback through turn resistance and visual indication.
Higher models get automatic climate control, a true luxury in this class where manual controls are more common, that keeps the cabin at a consistent temperature without adjusting anything.
Convenient Little Things
Posted On Sep 23, 2019 One of the advantages that the S-Presso enjoys is the addition of several comfort features that were not available in this price range until now.
The keyless entry is a neat little trick, too, so there’s no fumbling around for a key to open the door every time you hop into the thing – it’s these sort of details that make it a little more special each time you come back to it.
Power windows are now found in all four doors on all but the base model, and electrically adjustable mirrors help when reversing in cramped confines.
Interior storage gets a focus, too, with larger door pockets, an available glovebox, and several cubbies designed to fit today’s smart phones, among other things.
USB charging ports (including Type-C port) satisfy consumer market expectations for device charging, eliminating the need for an aftermarket charger.
Rear passengers are spoiled with raised seats with adjustable headrests, and on premium models, a centre armrest, along with dedicated a/c vents providing them with a more comfortable journey, no matter the temperature outside. These improvements meet requests from current customers and raise the perception of quality.
Refined Mechanical Package
Going under the hood, the S-Presso retains Maruti Suzuki’s K-Series 1.0 liter engine which, thanks to dual VVT tuning and optimized thermal management now achieves better performance and fuel efficiency.
This small engine churns out 67bhp and 90Nm of torque, figures that are barely enough for city use, though with fuel economy of over 21 kilometres a litre.
It comes with a 5 speed precise manual transmission and an updated automated manual transmission that provides more smooth and responsive gearshifts compared to the previous one.
Both transmissions have some new ratios that aid in accelerating from a standing start — a frequent area of complaint on the old G6.
The ride is enhanced with re-tuned suspension that smooths out road imperfections without sacrificing handling stability.
Other sound absorption material deployed inside the cabin also buffet road noise when cruising on the highway, giving the XMAX a premium and well-balanced character.
Enhanced Safety Credentials
Features focusing on safety get a big update on the Altroz and now, dual airbags ABs with EBD and electronic stability control are standard on every Altroz variant – that’s far more than you get than in its segment.
High-strength steel is strategically used in the vehicle frame to increase rigidity and enhance occupant protection despite its reduced mass.
Rear parking sensors are standard across the range, with further up the range adding a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines to help navigate into tight parking spots.
ISOFIX child seat anchors, seatbelt reminders and speed warnings offer regulatory compliance as well as real safety benefits to the occupants.
Strategic Market Positioning
With this major upgrade, Maruti Suzuki establishes S-Presso to woo the evolving young customer who aspires for a premium vehicle but without breaking the bank to buy a higher segment car.
It is this fine balance of luxury touches and cost control that proves that Maruti knows that value-conscious consumers too are drawn to good design and features that matter.
It will compete mainly with the Renault Kwid and Datsun redi-GO and Maruti’s own Alto, but it also has a very different appearance and feature list compared to the average as refreshed S-Presso.
It’s this positioning that acknowledges the evolving market pressures, where value is no longer just about acquisition cost.
Maruti Suzuki S-Presso
A renewed Maruti Suzuki S-Presso effectively shatters preconceived notions about the entry level car by introducing premium inspired aspects yet not letting go of the affordability that marks its market segment.
Though, as they have made the improvements to where they matter the most—while keeping affordable pricetag in mind—, Maruti now has arguably the most attractive alternative for wallet-watching buyers who refuse to sacrifice on exterior or content.
For a first-time, young salaried professional or a family looking for a second car, the refreshed S-Presso provides an ideal package that makes the buying decision an emotional and practical one”.
This strategy move will make the model that much more of a gateway product bringing more first-time customers to the Maruti Suzuki brand.
