Maruti DZire Diesel LDi (Old Model)

The Maruti DZire Diesel LDi (Old Model) is a compact sedan that builds on the success of its predecessor. It features a 1248 cc DDiS diesel engine producing 74 bhp and 190 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The car is known for its neutral road manners, absorbent ride quality, and light steering and clutch, making it easy to drive in city conditions. The interior, while not plush, has seen improvements with textured plastic on the dashboard and door panels, and features like remote locking and a decent audio system. However, the boot space is limited at 320 litres, and the rear seats can feel cramped. Despite these drawbacks, the DZires strong points, including its fuel efficiency, affordability, and Marutis reliable after-sales service, make it a compelling option for those seeking a practical and economical sedan.

The Maruti DZire Diesel LDi (Old Model) is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable sedan. While it may not excel in styling, particularly with its awkward boot design, it compensates with its refined engine, absorbent ride quality, and effortless city driving experience. The diesel engine offers terrific fuel efficiency, making it a favorite among those prioritizing mileage. Marutis excellent after-sales service and wide dealer network add to its appeal. However, the interior quality, though improved from its predecessor, still has some cheap bits, and the rear seat space is somewhat cramped. Overall, its a value-for-money workhorse that is well-suited for daily commuting.

Maruti Suzuki discontinued the diesel variants of the Dzire in March 2020 due to the implementation of the BS6 emissions standard. The 1.3-litre diesel engine, which was known for its fuel efficiency, is no longer available. I think this move was inevitable given the stricter emission norms, but its a loss for those who valued the diesels mileage.

The Maruti Dzire diesel, particularly the LDi variant, was praised for its exceptional fuel efficiency, with a claimed mileage of 28.4 km/l. In real-world tests, it delivered impressive mileage figures, making it a favorite among those who prioritize fuel economy. I believe the diesel Dzire was one of the best options for those with high daily mileage.

The Maruti Dzire diesel LDi was part of the second generation of the Dzire, which was launched in 2017. This generation saw significant improvements, including a lighter Heartect platform, which reduced the weight by about 105 kg compared to the previous model. I believe this weight reduction enhanced the overall driving dynamics and efficiency of the vehicle.

Before its discontinuation, the Maruti Dzire diesel LDi was available with a 5-speed manual transmission and an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) option. The AMT variant, known as AGS (Auto Gear Shift), was introduced in January 2016, offering convenience without compromising on fuel efficiency. I think the addition of AMT was a smart move to cater to urban drivers.

The Maruti Dzire diesel LDi was known for its robust 1.3-litre DDiS turbodiesel engine, producing 74 bhp and 190 Nm of torque. This engine was highly regarded for its performance and reliability, making the Dzire a popular choice in the Indian market. I think the engines performance was one of the key factors behind the Dzires success.

The Maruti DZire Diesel LDi (Old Model) was priced competitively in the Indian market. At the time of its launch, the ex-showroom price ranged from approximately Rs. 6.74 lakhs to Rs. 8.25 lakhs, depending on the variant and location. On-road prices would typically be higher, including additional costs such as registration, insurance, and other local taxes, which could push the price up to around Rs. 8-9 lakhs. This pricing made it an attractive option for those looking for a diesel sedan within a budget of around 8 lakhs OTR. The affordability and value-for-money aspect were key selling points, making it a popular choice in its segment.

The Maruti DZire Diesel LDi (Old Model) is renowned for its impressive fuel efficiency. With an ARAI-rated mileage of 26.59 kmpl, it is one of the most fuel-efficient sedans in its class. In real-world conditions, it delivers close to this figure, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about running costs and mileage. This high fuel efficiency, combined with the diesel engines lower operating costs, makes the DZire an economical option for daily driving.