Maruti Suzuki S-Presso

Maruti Suzuki might describe the S-Presso as a mini SUV but the car is best thought of as a high-riding budget ...

Maruti Suzuki might describe the S-Presso as a mini SUV but the car is best thought of as a high-riding budget hatchback. The S-Presso is available with a 1.0-litre petrol engine and can be had with a 5-speed manual and AMT automatic gearbox options. The S-Presso retails from Maruti’s Arena network.

The Maruti S-Presso has a small footprint but its narrow body and high roof give it gawky proportions. Elements...

The Maruti S-Presso has a small footprint but its narrow body and high roof give it gawky proportions. Elements like the high-set bonnet and upright pillars are in keeping with the SUV template, but overall, the S-Presso’s design and styling is an acquired taste. You will, however, like the S-Presso’s interior. While the centre-stacked speedometer takes some getting used to, the neat dashboard and pleasant quality make the cabin a nice place to be in. The elevated seats also equal a good view out and what’s more, the interior also scores big on space. Even large adults will find adequate headroom and ample kneeroom at the back. The boot is also more accommodating than its 240-litre capacity would suggest.
The Maruti S-Presso’s 1.0-litre engine is another highlight. It’s quiet, smooth and offers good performance. There’s also the promise of excellent fuel economy. You won’t have reason to complain about the 5-speed manual gearbox either. It’s light and the clutch is easy to modulate. Also nice is the 5-speed AMT automatic that is easily among the best of the type. Gearshifts are largely smooth and timely and you also get the option to shift manually via the gear lever.
A tight turning radius and light steering make the S-Presso really easy to punt around town in. Low-speed bump absorption is also very good. There is a firmness to the suspension that becomes more pronounced at higher speeds. High-speed stability is fair but up-down movements are a part of the experience. Out on the highway, you get a reasonable feel of connect at the steering wheel but the tall S-Presso doesn’t like sudden changes of direction.