The Maruti S-Presso has carved a unique space in the Indian compact car market since its launch in 2019. Positioned between the Alto and the Wagon R in Maruti Suzuki‘s lineup, the car is designed for urban drivers who need a fuel-efficient, spacious, and budget-friendly option. Its SUV-inspired design and modern features appeal to first-time buyers and city commuters alike.
Engine and Performance
The Maruti S-Presso is powered by a 998 cc, 3-cylinder petrol engine that delivers between 55.92 to 65.71 bhp and 82.1 to 89 Nm of torque. It comes with both a 5-speed manual and an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), providing flexibility for different driving preferences. The engine is peppy and performs well in city conditions, although it may feel less confident at higher speeds.
Fuel efficiency is one of the S-Presso’s biggest selling points. With mileage ranging from 24.12 to 25.3 kmpl, it is ideal for daily urban commutes. The car is also available in a CNG variant for those who want better fuel economy and lower emissions.
Interior and Comfort
Despite its compact size, the Maruti S-Presso offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with enough room for four adults. Its high ground clearance and elevated seating position provide a commanding view of the road, enhancing driver comfort. The boot space of 270 liters is decent for weekend getaways and city shopping needs.
Inside, the car is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Features like keyless entry, steering-mounted controls, and power windows contribute to a comfortable driving experience. The smartly designed center console and customizable Smartplay Studio system also add a modern touch.
Variants and Pricing
The Maruti S-Presso is offered in four main variants: Standard, LXi, VXi, and VXi+. Prices start from Rs. 4.26 lakh and go up to Rs. 6.12 lakh (ex-showroom). In cities like Ahmednagar, on-road prices range between Rs. 5.03 lakh and Rs. 7.04 lakh, depending on the model and features.
Design and Exterior
Maruti has styled the S-Presso with SUV-like aesthetics. It features a bold front grille, squarish wheel arches, and high-set bumpers. The 14-inch tyres and C-shaped tail lamps give it a distinctive look. Twin chamber headlamps offer better night-time visibility and enhance the vehicle’s road presence.
The design, while unique, is somewhat polarizing. Some buyers appreciate its unconventional look, while others may find it too quirky for their taste. However, the SUV-inspired stance certainly helps it stand out in a segment filled with similarly-styled hatchbacks.
Technology and Safety
The Maruti S-Presso includes modern conveniences like Auto Gear Shift (AGS) technology, central locking, and steering-mounted audio controls. Safety features include dual airbags in higher variants, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. However, the car scored poorly in global safety tests, which remains a concern for safety-conscious buyers.
Essential features like rear power windows and a rear defogger are missing, which could have improved the overall package. The suspension setup also leaves room for improvement, especially on bumpy city roads.
Pros and Cons
On the plus side, the Maruti S-Presso offers great value for money, strong fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and an extensive after-sales service network. It also has a high resale value, making it a sensible investment for short- to mid-term usage.
On the downside, the poor safety rating, lack of certain modern features, and limited rear-seat space can be deal-breakers for some. The car is best suited for city driving rather than highway cruising due to its lightweight build and stability issues at higher speeds.
Final Word
The Maruti S-Presso is a smart choice for first-time buyers and budget-conscious urban drivers. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and SUV-like design make it a standout in its category. While it does come with a few compromises, it delivers well on practicality and affordability—qualities that matter most in the entry-level car segment.