When it comes to small cars in India, Maruti Suzuki has always been a trusted name. From the iconic Maruti 800 to modern hatchbacks, the brand has dominated the market with its reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable cars. One of the most exciting additions to Maruti’s lineup is the Maruti S-Presso, a car that blends the compactness of a hatchback with the muscular styling of an SUV.
Launched as a micro-SUV, the Maruti S-Presso targets first-time buyers, urban drivers, and families looking for a budget-friendly vehicle with SUV-inspired design. In this detailed article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the S-Presso: design, interior, features, engine, mileage, safety, variants, pricing, competition, pros and cons, and final verdict.
Design and Styling
SUV-Inspired Look in a Compact Size
The S-Presso has been designed to appeal to buyers who want the ruggedness of an SUV but in a smaller, more affordable package.
- High bonnet line and upright stance.
- Squared wheel arches with cladding for a bold look.
- Stylish grille with chrome inserts.
- High ground clearance of 180mm, giving it SUV-like presence.
The compact dimensions make it perfect for city traffic while still looking bigger than a conventional hatchback.
Interior and Comfort
Cabin Space
Despite being a small car, the S-Presso offers surprising interior space. Thanks to its tall-boy design, headroom is ample, and seating is upright for better visibility.
Dashboard and Features
- Unique centrally-mounted digital instrument cluster.
- Touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Steering-mounted controls (in higher variants).
- Ample storage spaces including bottle holders and door pockets.
The interior focuses on practicality and user-friendliness, ideal for daily commuting and family use.
Engine and Performance
Engine Options
The Maruti S-Presso is powered by the tried-and-tested 1.0-liter K-Series petrol engine.
- Power: 66 bhp @ 5,500 rpm.
- Torque: 89 Nm @ 3,500 rpm.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT (Auto Gear Shift).
CNG Option
For budget-conscious buyers, the S-Presso also comes with a factory-fitted CNG variant.
- Power: 56 bhp @ 5,300 rpm.
- Torque: 82 Nm @ 3,400 rpm.
This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Mileage has always been Maruti’s strong point, and the S-Presso doesn’t disappoint.
- Petrol (MT/AMT): 21–22 km/l.
- CNG variant: 31–32 km/kg.
This makes it a cost-effective daily commuter for urban families.
Ride and Handling
- Light steering makes it easy to maneuver in city traffic.
- High ground clearance helps in tackling speed breakers and rough roads.
- Suspension is tuned for comfort, though it may feel slightly bouncy on highways.
Overall, the S-Presso is nimble and practical for everyday driving.
Safety Features
Standard Safety
Maruti has equipped the S-Presso with essential safety features:
- Dual front airbags (driver + passenger).
- ABS with EBD.
- Rear parking sensors.
- Seat belt reminders.
- Speed alert system.
Build Quality
The S-Presso has been updated to meet the latest safety regulations, making it safer than earlier models.
Variants and Features
The S-Presso is available in multiple trims: STD, LXI, VXI, and VXI+.
- STD: Basic variant, focused on affordability.
- LXI: Adds power steering and AC.
- VXI: Touchscreen infotainment, steering controls, body-colored ORVMs.
- VXI+: Rear parking camera, advanced infotainment system, stylish interior touches.
Buyers can choose between manual, AMT, and CNG options, depending on budget and preference.
Dimensions and Practicality
- Length: 3,565 mm.
- Width: 1,520 mm.
- Height: 1,567 mm.
- Wheelbase: 2,380 mm.
- Boot space: 240 liters.
The compact footprint makes it easy to park in tight city spots, while the boot space is adequate for daily shopping and weekend trips.
Price in India (2025)
The Maruti S-Presso is one of the most affordable cars in India, with prices ranging from:
- ₹4.25 lakh – ₹6.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) depending on the variant.
This makes it a strong option for first-time car buyers and budget-conscious families.
Competition in the Market
The S-Presso competes with:
- Renault Kwid.
- Hyundai Santro (discontinued, but similar buyers).
- Tata Punch (higher segment, but similar SUV feel).
- Maruti Alto K10 (internal rival).
Among these, the S-Presso wins buyers with its tall SUV stance, CNG option, and Maruti’s service network.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- SUV-like stance in a compact car.
- Fuel-efficient petrol and CNG options.
- Affordable pricing.
- Easy to drive and park in cities.
- Backed by Maruti’s vast service network.
Cons
- Basic build quality compared to rivals.
- Bouncy ride at higher speeds.
- Design may not appeal to all buyers.
Who Should Buy the Maruti S-Presso?
The S-Presso is best suited for:
- First-time car buyers looking for an affordable yet stylish option.
- Urban drivers who need a compact car for traffic and parking convenience.
- Budget-conscious families who want low running costs with petrol or CNG.
- Elderly drivers who prefer high seating and easy ingress/egress.
Conclusion
The Maruti S-Presso is more than just another budget hatchback—it’s a micro-SUV with a personality. Offering a blend of SUV styling, practical features, fuel efficiency, and affordability, it has quickly become a favorite among urban families and first-time buyers.
If you want a car that is compact yet stylish, economical yet practical, the Maruti S-Presso is one of the best value-for-money options in the entry-level segment. Backed by Maruti’s strong reliability and service network, it’s a purchase you won’t regret.