Maruti S-Presso

Overview

Here’s the run down on my newest being on my radar, the Maruti S-Presso, so I figured it is worth a good chat. That type of car, you just start to notice because it’s so quirky. That’s how the S-Presso feels precisely. Almost — it’s this kind of car that sort of stands out — it almost has a little personality of its own.

But, the first thing that catches your eye with the S-Presso is its mini SUV vibe. It’s tall, boxy and, oddly, it reminds me of Maruti taking a regular compact hatchback, adding a bit of height and attitude. The look is different, kind of bold, but gives the vibe that it’s not giving it up but still stands out. It’s not for everyone’s cup of tea, yeah, and I get it. I’d describe it as ‘quirky’ and some folks think that’s a fair enough word for it. But that ground clearance and how it's designed make it super practical for city traffic. It’s also the kind of car that is going to go where it’s supposed to go and you won’t be sweating it too hard trying to find a parking spot for it, it just fits.

So, let’s dive a bit under the hood. The S-Presso comes powered by a 1.0 liter petrol engine. Will this thing ever blow up at the drag strip? Not exactly. However, it’s actually perfect for the kind of everyday driving we all do, even in the city. The reality is that, together, you’ve got about 67 horsepower, which sounds puny, but is in fact enough to whizz around town or take to the fast lane for an easy motoring. Fuel efficiency is a huge win and honestly, the car was made to keep you away from the fuel pump. Also, the Maruti’ brand name is good enough to know that the maintenance won’t cut a hole in your pocket.

This funky central mounted digital cluster is what you will find when you step inside. At first, it’s a little different, but you do get used to it. Overall, the whole cabin just feels of this no nonsense sort of thing — simple but you have it feel roomy for a cabin that is absolutely compact. You’ve got the essentials covered: cent more air conditioning, basic touchscreen, but enough space to stuff all the little stuff. The simplicity is not loaded with fancy tech or high end finishes — in a way, that’s exactly what I like. There aren't fancy buttons, or sensors, or gadgets—or anything dense to so much that you end up overwhelmed.

For the S-Presso, city driving feels its best. It’s light and easy to handle, not to mention it’s sort of like driving a go kart. When you’re weaving through traffic it’s actually a lot of fun. Also, it’s nice and visible – perched up high you’ve got a good view all around. Bumps are a little noticeable given the suspension can feel a bit firm, but if the road isn’t great and you can live with it… it’s not going to spoil a drive. It’s built more for quickness and agility, and its flesh tears it up.

Either the Renault Kwid or the Tata Tiago would probably spring to mind if you are looking at alternatives. Same fun of funk design, just feels a bit more reliable and also fuel efficient in long term if you ask me, than the Kwid. Tiago, on the flip side, has come with a bit more going on in term of safety features and interior quality, but at a slightly higher price. If it’s something wallet friendly as well as something with a little bit of panache then the S-Presso is definitely on your list of contenders.

The S-Presso isn’t a luxury ride by any means, so yeah, it’s not, but it’s got this practical easygoing vibes that’s kind of hard not to like. As a low running cost city companion, it feels a reliable little piece of equipment for city living. This is the ride that could be just what you are looking for if you’re after something functional and unique, without all the extra bells and whistles. What if you could imagine yourself zipping around in one of these? What do you think?