2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz: Which variant should you buy?

Ciaz’s exteriors get a refresh, the interiors have been enhanced and there are more features on offer as well, making the Ciaz more desirable than before. But with three engine-gearbox and four trims to choose from, picking the right one for your needs can be tough. Allow us to solve the puzzle for you.  

How much does it cost?

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz petrol-manual prices range from Rs 8.19-9.97 lakh, petrol-auto prices range from Rs 9.80-10.97 lakh while the diesel Ciaz is available for Rs 9.19-10.97 lakh. Note, the Ciaz auto is only available in Delta, Zeta and Alpha trims.

What are the engine-gearbox options on offer?

The 2018 Ciaz debuts Suzuki’s new, 105hp 1.5-litre petrol engine that also comes with a mild-hybrid system, to help performance and efficiency. This engine can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the auto is fairly smooth and convenient, it also dulls performance to an extent. Honestly, if you can live without an auto, you’d be quite happy with the petrol-manual Ciaz. The petrol-manual will also be easier on the pocket to run with an ARAI-tested fuel economy figure of 21.56kpl versus the automatics 20.28kpl. 

The diesel, like before is a 90hp 1.3-litre unit, again with a mild-hybrid system. While Maruti has priced the updated diesel Ciaz lower than the outgoing car, despite the addition of new features, it is still Rs 1 lakh dearer than the petrol manual car. In effect, the diesel really makes sense for users who will have significant running.

Which is the most value for money variant?

If you’re in the market with a strict budget, the base Sigma variant will meet your requirements just fine. Not only does it have safety essentials like ABS, EBD and dual airbags, it also gets features like projector headlights, electric mirror adjustment, remote key entry, power windows, rear air-con vents and a Bluetooth audio system with steering controls. Sigma-spec cars are decently kitted out and give you plenty of kit for reasonable money.

Are the Delta and Zeta better options?

For Rs 61,000 more than the Sigma is the Delta variant with the manual transmission. The additional features it gets are 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, cruise control, auto climate control and height-adjustable driver’s seat. Are these features worth the price premium? It’s a reasonable step up in price for what you get.

The manual-equipped Zeta variant, priced Rs 77,000 higher than the Delta, gets you auto LED projector headlamps with DRLs, LED fog lights, rear adjustable neck restraints, a rear sun shade, keyless entry and go, electric folding wing mirrors, an auto dimming inside mirror and a reverse camera.

Should you buy the top-spec Alpha variant?

The strongest selling variant for Maruti Suzuki, and the variant that you should go for, is the top-spec Alpha variant. The Rs 40,000 (for the manual trim) over the Zeta gets you wider 195mm tyres with classier 16-inch alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and leather upholstery with a leather wrapped steering.

The Ciaz really scores high when it comes to value-for-money. It offers a big car feel for smaller car price. In addition, it’s feature rich, spacious, practical and easy to drive. And if that’s not enough, it comes with the peace of mind associated with the Maruti Suzuki badge, which further strengthens the Ciaz’s case.

All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi