Introduction

A lot is being said and discussed about Maruti Suzuki's new S-Presso. Is it really an SUV? Or is it just another hatchback? Or, does it manage to bring in, something new for the entry-level car segment buyer?

Because we have driven this car for a fair bit now, we are in a better position to answer these questions. In fact, we have compiled our list of five positives and two negatives.

Positives

Space

I have walked into the cabin and quite literally, walked into it. You don’t need to crouch like you usually do in a car. And, look at the amount of space on offer here.

Tall people generally avoid the second row of these compact entry-level cars. Reasons being limited headroom, knee-room and shoulder room. However, in the S-Presso, there's enough space to fit them in. So, for average-sized individuals like me it's quite a roomy place to be in. Slim seats, slimmer door pads and a high roof have helped carve-out that space inside.

Utility and Usability

After interior space, let's take a look at the storage spaces too. There's nothing at the back, but then it’s quite a practical cabin for those in the front.

For example, there's this shelf on the dashboard above the glove box. It comes handy to keep your wallet and cell-phone. There are cup-holders in the centre-floor console with some more stowage slots for other items. And despite the door being slim, these get bottle holders that can hold one-litre bottles in it.

Good Drivability

You sit high up with a good view of the road ahead. And the engine is not only peppy but smooth through the rev range. Also, what we have here is the AMT gearbox, which only adds to the convenience.

This 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine produces 67bhp of power and 90Nm of torque. It's sufficient enough with a good bottom-end torque to keep up with the city traffic. And it does make good progress even on the highway by easily cruising at triple digit speeds. Then, the AMT gearbox is nicely tuned too, without showing any pronounced delays in shifts.

Ride Quality

With all the talk about this being a mini-SUV, Maruti Suzuki has nailed it with its ride quality. The suspension is well tuned to absorb bumps and undulations on poorly surfaced roads. Then, the combination of the high ground clearance and long suspension travel, only makes it easier for the S-Presso, to take on rural landscapes or broken roads.

Maruti Suzuki Brand Name

The Maruti Suzuki badge itself is good enough to convince buyers to buy this product. The S-Presso is conceptualised, designed, engineered and made in India. So, thanks to the easy access to service and spares, first-time buyers won't think much about its after-sales service and spares availability. No wonder then, the S-Presso makes a strong case for itself through Maruti's strong dealer network.

Negatives

Looks Weird

There are cars which grab your attention for their attractive design or stylish looks. The S-Presso also does that, but for its off-beat, and dare I say its ‘weird’ looks.

Sure, its SUV-like design with high ground clearance and all is fine. However, the overall proportions, its stance and exposed wheel arches will make someone exclaim what! rather than wow. Furthermore, be it this pearl starry blue or the solid fire red or even, their signature launch colour - the solid sizzle orange; they are too bright to appease most buyers.

Could Have Been Better Equipped

Well, things like the fit and finish, quality of materials can be discounted for in affordable cars. But in a competitive market like ours, the features one get plays an important role.

And when I say that, I especially mean things that one wouldn't want to buy from the after-sales market. The S-Presso doesn't get an adjustable steering nor a driver height adjust. There are no rear power windows, no rear wiper, no internal day/night mirror and just one washer jet. Even the DRLs on this model are an optional extra, and I'm told they cost quite a lot.

Conclusion

Whether you like it or not, you will appreciate what Maruti Suzuki has brought to the table. A mini-SUV proposition with a compact foot print, great ride quality and easy-to-drive, all of this - not at an exorbitant price.