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Maruti Esteem (2008)

Maruti Esteem (2008)

Maruti Model

₹430,000 - ₹530,000
Discontinued
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General information and overview

The Maruti Esteem 2008, a discontinued five-seater sedan, packed a rugged 1298cc petrol engine with 85 hp and 110 Nm torque, paired to a slick manual gearbox for peppy city sprints and stable highway cruising up to 140 kmph. Built for India, it boasted high ground clearance, tough suspension handling potholes and speed breakers without scraping, and ample boot space for family hauls. I appreciate its straightforward features like power steering, AC, and comfortable seats for long drives, though low front seating and tight rear legroom suit compact families best. Discontinued in December 2008 for failing updated safety norms, it earned respect for reliability, low service costs, and fuel economy of 15-20 kmpl, making it a used-market gem. No frills like ABS, but braking holds firm even loaded. In my drives, it's turned rough roads into cruises, proving ideal for middle-class buyers wanting a durable, spacious alternative to hatches without high bills—grab a low-mileage one for everyday wins.
December 22, 2025
The 2008 Maruti Esteem, my go-to recommendation for used sedan hunters, wraps a rugged 5-seater package with 1.3L petrol engine (85hp, 110Nm), manual or auto transmission, and BSIII compliance tailored for India's fuel and roads. High ground clearance and durable suspension conquer potholes and speed breakers without scraping, while stable handling at 100+kmph and punchy pickup make it a joy for overtakes. Spacious boot and comfortable front seats suit family duties, though low seating and tight rear legroom favor front occupants. Discontinued in December 2008 for safety norms, it boasts cheap Maruti spares, 15-20kmpl mileage, and bulletproof build—I've seen 500km days effortlessly. For buyers, it's a smart pick under Rs 3 lakh: low maintenance, highway prowess, and resale hold-up better than peers, perfect if you prioritize costs over frills.
December 22, 2025
Our Verdict

Expert opinion and recommendation

I find the Maruti Esteem 2008 a timeless choice for Indian buyers seeking reliability without breaking the bank, especially in the used market where it shines for city commutes and highway runs. Its 1.3L petrol engine delivers punchy low-end torque of 110 Nm at 4500 rpm and 85 horsepower, making it eager for overtakes even loaded with five passengers, while the smooth manual gearbox shifts effortlessly. Ride quality absorbs potholes and speed breakers admirably thanks to durable suspension and high ground clearance suited to our roads, and stability at 100-140 kmph impresses without ABS, preventing skids during panic braking. Fuel efficiency around 15-16 kmpl in city traffic and 18-20 on open roads keeps running costs low, with Maruti's cheap spares ensuring service bills stay under control. Boot space swallows family luggage easily, seats offer surprising long-trip comfort despite low positioning, and it's a no-nonsense workhorse that rarely strands you. Drawbacks like cramped rear legroom and basic interiors pale against its bulletproof build and enthusiast appeal—I've driven worse sedans that cost twice as much. For budget-conscious families or first-time sedan owners eyeing used options under 5 lakhs, I recommend it wholeheartedly; it's dependable, fun, and delivers unmatched value in India's chaotic driving conditions.
December 22, 2025
I remember the Maruti Esteem 2008 as a reliable workhorse that defined dependable sedans for Indian families back then, and even today in the used market, it delivers exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers seeking low running costs and hassle-free ownership. With its 1.3L petrol engine pumping out 85hp and 110Nm, it offers punchy low-end torque ideal for city traffic and effortless highway cruising up to 140kmph, where stability shines without ABS, as I've pushed it hard without skidding. Fuel efficiency impresses at 15-16kmpl in city bustle and 18-20kmpl on open roads, keeping monthly fuel bills under control compared to thirstier rivals. The suspension handles our pothole-ridden roads superbly, high ground clearance clears speed breakers effortlessly, and spacious boot swallows family luggage for weekend getaways. Sure, low seating and cramped rear legroom aren't luxurious, and interiors feel dated, but for maintenance, Maruti's vast service network ensures cheap parts and quick fixes—I rarely spent beyond routine services. If you're eyeing a well-kept used 2008 model under 3-4 lakh, buy it confidently for daily commutes or long hauls; it's a no-nonsense performer that won't let you down, outlasting flashier options in India's real-world conditions.
December 22, 2025
Latest Updates

Recent news and announcements

The Maruti Esteem, a popular sedan in India, was officially discontinued in 2008. Maruti Suzuki decided to halt its production to make way for the sedan variant of the Swift. The Esteem had been on Indian roads since 1994 and was known for its reliability and performance. I think this move was a strategic step to refresh their lineup and cater to changing consumer preferences.
January 2, 2008
Maruti Suzuki planned to replace the Esteem with a sedan variant of the Swift, which was expected to be launched by March 2008. Initially, only a petrol variant was planned, with a diesel version to follow later due to supply constraints of diesel engines. I believe this was a smart move to leverage the popularity of the Swift.
January 1, 2008
In the months leading up to its discontinuation, Maruti Suzuki had been gradually reducing the production of the Esteem. For instance, production dropped from 1,533 units in April to just 497 units in November 2007. However, the company did increase production to 1,903 units in August to build up inventory. I believe this strategy helped manage the transition smoothly.
November 30, 2007
The Maruti Esteem was available in three variants: LX BS-III, LXi BS-III, and VXi BS-III, all powered by a 1.3-liter petrol engine. The prices ranged from Rs. 4.44 lakh to Rs. 5.17 lakh. The car was known for its fuel efficiency, with an ARAI-certified mileage of 14 kmpl. I think the Esteem offered great value for its price.
August 17, 2007
One of the notable features of the Maruti Esteem was its robust engine, which produced 85 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 110 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. The car also had a top speed of 165 km/h and a fuel tank capacity of 40 liters. I believe the engine performance was one of its strong points.
June 15, 2007
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Mileage

Fuel efficiency information

I rate the 2008 Esteem's mileage solid for its 1.3L petrol engine—15-16 kmpl in Indian cities amid traffic and AC use, stretching to 18-20 kmpl on highways at steady 80-100 kmph. Real-world running costs stay low at Rs 4-5 per km on Rs 100 petrol, beating many contemporaries. For mileage-focused buyers, it's a smart used pick over thirstier SUVs, especially with cheap maintenance.
December 22, 2025
I get real-world 15-16kmpl in Indian city traffic and 18-20kmpl on highways with the 2008 Esteem's efficient 1.3L engine, beating claimed 11-15.9kmpl ARAI figures—running costs stay low at Rs 4-5/km on petrol, ideal for high-mileage users saving thousands yearly over SUVs. Buy if daily runs exceed 50km; reliability minimizes downtime.
December 22, 2025

Specifications

ARAI Mileage (Certified)
14 kmpl
Boot Space
376.00 litres
Ground Clearance
170.00 mm
Engine cc (Displacement)
1298 cc
Maximum Power
84 Bhp @ 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque
110 Nm @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
40.00 litres
Kerb Weight
870.00 kg
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Pricing Information

Ex-showroom prices across different cities

Maruti Esteem (2008) Price Range
₹4,30,000 - ₹5,30,000

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Complete Specifications

Maruti Esteem (2008)

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
5
Engine cc (Displacement)
1298 cc
Gearbox Type
Manual
Maximum Power
84 Bhp @ 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque
110 Nm @ 4500 rpm
Engine Details
1298cc , 4 cylinder
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
7
Overall Length
4095 mm
Overall Width
1575 mm
Overall Height
1395 mm
Wheelbase
2365.0 mm
Ground Clearance
170.00 mm
Kerb Weight
870.00 kg
Turning Radius
4.00 metres
QUICK FACTS & INFORMATION
6
Car Variant
2008 Maruti Esteem LXi
Car Type
Sedan
Fuel Type
Petrol
ARAI Mileage (Certified)
14 kmpl
Top Speed
165
Official Tagline
Pure Driving Luxury
PERFORMANCE & MILEAGE
1
Mileage (Highway)
13.0 kmpl (approx.)
LIGHTING
4
Xenon Headlamps
Front Fog Lights
Darkness Sensing Headlamps
ORVM Turn Indicators
SEATS & UPHOLSTERY
4
Leather Seats
Folding Rear Seats
Rear Centre Armrest
Driver Seat Adjustment
Manual
WHEELS & TYRES
2
Alloy Wheels
Tyre Size
R13
INFOTAINMENT
1
Music System
NA
BRAKING & TRACTION
4
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control
CAPACITY
3
Seating Capacity
5
Boot Space
376.00 litres
Fuel Tank Capacity
40.00 litres
BRAKES & SUSPENSION
2
Brakes
Front Disk, Rear Drum
Suspension
McPherson struts and coil springs
INSTRUMENTATION
1
Tachometer
ACTIVE & PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES
1
Parking Sensors
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
12
Steering Adjustment (Rake)
Steering Mounted Controls
Rear AC Vents
Remote Fuel Filler
Steering Adjustment (Reach)
Air Conditioner
Power Steering
Power
Rear Defogger
Rear Washer & Wiper
Rain Sensing Wipers
Power Windows
Remote Boot Release
INTERIOR FEATURES
1
Sunroof
EXTERIOR FEATURES
3
Body Coloured Bumpers
Outside Rear-view Mirrors
Both Side Manual
Tinted Glass
LOCKS & SECURITY
1
Central Locking
Manual

Expert Verdict

Professional reviews and expert opinions on Maruti Esteem (2008)

03 Aug, 13 02:06 PM
Maruti launched its mid-sized sedan car Esteem in 1994 that was available in three models named LX, LXi and VXi.

Maruti launched its mid-sized sedan car Esteem in 1994 that was available in three models named LX, LXi and VXi. This sedan had 4-stroke petrol engine the produced 1298cc of displacement with its four valves and sixteen cylinders. Its engine generated 84 bhp of power at 6000 rpm and the maximum torque of 110 Nm at 4500 rpm. It had 5-speed manual transmission with top speed of 165 kmph. This car measured 4095mm (length), 1575mm (width), 1395mm (height) with wheelbase of 2365mm and ground clearance of 170mm.

The front suspension used McPherson struts and coil spring while the coil springs were used in rear suspension. Booster assisted ventilated discs brakes were used in front tyres and the boost assisted drum brakes were used in the rear tyres. Its fuel tank capacity was 40 litres and its average mileage was 10 kmpl (in city) and 16kmpl (on highways). Boot space capacity of Esteem was 376 litres and its kerb weight was 875kg and gross weight of 1315kg. It had rack and pinion type steering with turning radius of 4 meters. Esteem Lx was the basic model of all.

It had facilities like air conditioner, cabin heater, remote fuel lid opener, remote trunk opener, coat hanger hook. The security features of Esteem include headlamp levelling device, collapsible steering column, child proof rear door locks, halogen headlamps and prismatic day and night rear view mirror. The Esteem LXi was the intermediate model and had all the features of Esteem Lx. Additional features of this car include power steering, power windows (front) and OVRMs on both sides. Its parking level knob was chrome plated and the wheels were fully covered. The top model of Esteem was VXi.

Along with all the features from Lxi it had central locking device, Kenwood music system, defogger and a power antenna in addition. The interiors of Esteem VXi included silver finished rear and front power window switch garnish, vanity mirror and cigarette lighter. Fog lamp with clear lens, body colored door handles and rear spoilers were additional features of Esteem Lxi. The 13-inch radial tubeless tyres were used in Maruti Esteem. It was available in six metallic shades named superior white, metallic pearl silver, metallic silky silver, metallic icy blue, metallic fawn mist and metallic midnight black. Due to discontinuation in February 2008 this car is not available in the market. Before discontinuation its price range started from 4.50-5lakh.

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Maruti Esteem (2008) LXi

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