Maruti Omni (2019)

Maruti Omni widely known as Van in India made its debut in 1984 and is still under production. This was the first ever micro van launched in India which became quite popular and since then, people are using this UV for several purposes. In this article, we try to figure out the reasons behind its incredible success.

Exterior

Maruti has never changed the original design and style of Omni. The typical van look without a bonnet gives it a unique identity on our crowded Indian roads. It features full size windshield at its front with thick A-pillars on both sides. The lower section of the front body panel features square shaped clear lens headlights. These headlights get surrounded by grey colored plastics which further gets extend to form the virtual front grille of Omni with a Suzuki logo in the center. The slim black colored front bumper comes integrated with orange colored side indicators. Move to the side of this van and you will notice new sporty body graphics which gives fresh appeal to it. The cargo version of Omni lacks the side windows while the normal variant features its characteristic side windows with big quarter glass at the back. Omni still uses the sliding doors at its both sides with 12 inches wheels. At the back, the thermoplastic bumper carries the characteristic reverse parking lights of Omni. The vertically long boot gate of Omni gives it a tall appearance and also comes with a full size rear glass. The three layered tail lights also come with a set of reflective lights.

Interior

Maruti Omni is available with two different seating arrangements; one can carry five people while the other variant can be occupied by 8 people. The standard variant offers incredible legroom and headroom to the rear passengers while there is enough shoulder room at its front. The eight -seater Omni also offers acceptable amount of knee room while the cargo version comes without the rear seats which makes it a two seater. Omni has grey colored interiors which neither looks premium nor looks cheap. The limited edition variant of Omni comes with new dual tone seat covers and new floor mats. The two spoke steering wheel comes with a Suzuki logo at its center.

Comfort and Convenience

The van lacks premium comfort features like power steering, windows and AC but comes with adjustable and sliding front seat and headrests. Omni has two speed windshield wipers, 3 position cabin light, outside rear view mirrors on both sides and lockable rear side windows. The large sliding rear doors also make it convenient for you to move in/out of Omni frequently as they can be easily operated.

Dashboard and Storage

The redesigned dashboard of Omni is quite functional as it comes with useful space for utility items. The plastic quality of this dashboard is certainly disappointing as it looks down-market and feels quite hard to touch. The dashboard comes with useful cup holders and integrated lockable glove box. Apart from this, there is enough space at the back, which can carry your luggage on long journeys. Even with a gas cylinder at the back, there is enough boot space in this van.

Music System

Maruti Omni doesn’t come with a factory fitted music system but the limited edition variant of Omni features an integrated CD/DVD played with USB port and Aux-in. The system is supported by four speakers.

Engine and Gearbox

Maruti Omni uses a 796cc 3cylinder petrol engine which generates a maximum power of 33 bhp at 5000 rpm. The maximum torque output of this liquid cooled, 6 valve engine is of 57 Nm which arrives at 2500 rpm. This engine is served with a four-speed manual gearbox. Company also offers the same engine with factory fitted LPG and CNG kits.

Acceleration and Performance

Omni can cross the speed of 100km/hr and it takes around 10 seconds to reach 0-100km/hr. The engine is quite responsive and offers instant throttle reaction at low rpms. The light weight also contributes to the powerful performance of Omni. The refinement level could have been better though as the engine becomes noisy when rev hard. Omni runs frequently on CNG and LPG thanks to its short gear ratios which avoid any type of lag.

Mileage and Safety Features

Omni may return you an overall fuel efficiency of around 15km/ltr on petrol while these figures improve with CNG and LPG. The headlight leveller, high mount rear stop lamp, front and rear seat belts are some of the safety features of Omni.

Suspension and Brakes

Omni now comes with improved suspension system as it features gas filled shock absorbers at front and leaf springs at the back. It comes with booster assisted front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.

Ride and Handling

Omni is certainly not the best in this department but it offers acceptable ride and handling. The suspension system of Omni easily digests the potholes and you won’t complain about the riding comfort inside. Yes, its tiny wheels and short wheelbase (1840mm) fails to hold it properly on road as a result of which there is considerable amount of body roll around corners. Omni has a ground clearance of 165mm which improves its turning abilities though. The up-right driving position gives you perfect view of roads which helps a lot in city traffic and with minimum turning radius of 4.1m; it’s quite easy to park this van at tight spaces.

Shades, Variants and Warranty

Omni is available in four variants out of which two variants are for commercial usage. The standard variants are available in four colors and come with a warranty of 2 years/40000 kilometres from Maruti.

Verdict

Maruti Omni ranges from INR 2.38-2.47lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi (approx., may vary)). Undoubtedly, it’s an economical option which also offers good amount of space and these are the biggest reasons behind its success. There is no doubt that the commercial usage of Omni is keeping it alive in the market otherwise in today’s era, nobody wants to buy a van which has no social status and looks like a thing of past with no modern features and styling.