Maruti Suzuki S-Presso: In India’s ever-evolving small car market, standing out isn’t easy—especially in the budget segment. But Maruti Suzuki S-Presso manages to break the mold by blending the practicality of a compact hatchback with the rugged charm of an SUV-inspired design.
The result? A car that refuses to be easily defined. Call it a “micro-SUV” or a clever spin on market trends—either way, it’s uniquely Maruti.
Bold by Design: The Boxy Stance That Turns Heads
Right from the first glance, the S-Presso looks different.
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Tall and boxy profile gives it a mini-SUV vibe.
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High-set bonnet, square wheel arches, and 180mm ground clearance enhance the SUV-like presence.
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Compact in length (just over 3.5 meters), but not shy in personality.
While its proportions divide opinion—some love its quirky road presence, others find it top-heavy—the design succeeds in making it instantly recognizable. It’s bold, it’s funky, and it doesn’t blend in with the crowd.
Inside the Cabin: Simple, Practical, and Surprisingly Spacious
Step inside, and the S-Presso keeps things minimal yet functional.
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Central digital instrument cluster sits on top of the dashboard—unusual at first, but easy to get used to.
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Round air vents and orange accents bring in some fun.
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Tall seating position improves visibility—especially helpful in city traffic.
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Generous headroom thanks to the high roofline.
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Compact width makes shoulder room a bit tight, especially in the rear.
Storage and Boot Space:
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Smart use of door pockets and cubbyholes.
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270-litre boot is practical but loading heavy items can be tricky due to a high loading lip.
Under the Hood: Trusty Engine, City-Friendly Performance
At its core, the S-Presso runs on Maruti’s reliable 1.0-litre K10 engine, delivering:
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67 hp, which may seem modest but feels peppy due to the car’s light weight.
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Real-world mileage of up to 20 km/l, making it economical for everyday use.
Transmission options include:
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5-speed manual for those who love control.
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AMT (Auto Gear Shift) for convenient, clutch-free driving.
While the AMT has a slight lag, it’s more than acceptable for city commuting. The light steering makes it easy to maneuver in traffic, although it can feel vague at highway speeds.
Ride and Handling: Designed for Indian Roads
Given its tall body and narrow track, the S-Presso does make some compromises:
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Body roll in corners is noticeable.
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Feels a bit light in crosswinds on highways.
But the soft suspension setup absorbs city bumps well, making it a solid performer on Indian roads. It’s clearly tuned for comfort and practicality rather than aggressive handling.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
What Works:
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Unique SUV-inspired design
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High driving position for better visibility
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Generous ground clearance
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Excellent fuel economy
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Compact size ideal for city driving
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Smartphone connectivity with easy-to-use infotainment
What Could Be Better:
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Feels top-heavy in corners
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Cabin materials reflect the budget
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Limited shoulder room in the rear
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High boot lip can be inconvenient
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Not everyone will love the unconventional look
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Noticeable road and wind noise at higher speeds
Final Verdict: A Smart Buy for First-Time Urban Drivers
The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso isn’t trying to be everything for everyone. It’s built with a clear focus: first-time car buyers and urban commuters who want something affordable, different, and a bit stylish.
Its SUV-inspired styling, trusted mechanicals, and city-smart size make it a standout in the entry-level space. And while it’s not without flaws, it confidently delivers on what matters most to its audience.
Think of it as modern India on wheels—bold, efficient, and ready to take on city life without breaking the bank.