The Maruti Suzuki Celerio has carved a niche for itself in the Indian automotive market as a practical, fuel-efficient, and affordable hatchback tailored for urban commuters and small families. Launched initially in 2014, the Celerio gained fame for introducing the revolutionary Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) in the budget segment, making automatic driving accessible to the masses. Over the years, Maruti Suzuki has refined this model, with the second-generation Celerio debuting in November 2021, bringing a fresh design, enhanced features, and improved efficiency. Built on the lightweight HEARTECT platform, this hatchback combines modern aesthetics with Maruti’s signature reliability, making it a strong contender in the entry-level car segment.
The Celerio is positioned as a city-friendly vehicle, boasting a compact footprint, peppy performance, and impressive mileage—attributes that resonate with buyers seeking value for money. With the recent updates in 2025, including the addition of six airbags as standard across all variants, Maruti has elevated the safety quotient, addressing a long-standing critique of its budget offerings. Available in petrol and CNG variants, the Celerio caters to diverse needs, from cost-conscious buyers to those prioritizing eco-friendly fuel options. This detailed exploration will cover its technical prowess, variant lineup, pricing across metro cities, and how it stacks up against competitors like the Tata Tiago, Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, and Maruti Wagon R.
Technical Specifications
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is powered by a single engine option—the K10C 1.0-litre petrol engine—with dual fuel configurations (petrol and CNG). Below is a tabular representation of its technical specifications, compiled from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest data as of March 2025.
| Parameter | Petrol Variant | CNG Variant |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | K10C, 3-cylinder, Dual Jet, Dual VVT | K10C, 3-cylinder, Dual Jet, Dual VVT |
| Displacement | 998 cc | 998 cc |
| Max Power | 65.71 bhp @ 5500 rpm | 55.92 bhp @ 5300 rpm |
| Max Torque | 89 Nm @ 3500 rpm | 82.1 Nm @ 3400 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual / 5-speed AMT | 5-speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol + CNG (Bi-fuel) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 24.97 – 26.68 kmpl | 34.43 km/kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 litres | 60 litres (water equivalent, CNG) + 32 litres (petrol) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3695 mm x 1655 mm x 1555 mm | 3695 mm x 1655 mm x 1555 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2435 mm | 2435 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm | 170 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 820-825 kg (MT), 835-840 kg (AMT) | 905 kg |
| Boot Space | 313 litres | 313 litres (reduced with CNG kit) |
| Tyre Size | 165/70 R14 (LXi, VXi), 175/60 R15 (ZXi, ZXi+) | 165/70 R14 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Drum | Disc / Drum |
The K10C engine, equipped with idle start-stop technology, enhances fuel efficiency, making the Celerio one of the most frugal petrol hatchbacks in India. The CNG variant, available only with a manual gearbox, offers exceptional mileage, appealing to buyers in metro cities where CNG infrastructure is robust.
Variants
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is offered in multiple trims to suit varying budgets and preferences. As of March 2025, it includes a special Dream Edition alongside standard variants. Below is the variant lineup with key features.
| Variant | Transmission | Fuel Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| LXi | Manual | Petrol | 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, manual AC, front power windows, 14-inch steel wheels |
| VXi | Manual / AMT | Petrol / CNG | 7-inch touchscreen, keyless entry, power mirrors, rear parking sensors |
| ZXi | Manual / AMT | Petrol | Hill-hold assist (AMT), tilt steering, 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps |
| ZXi+ | Manual / AMT | Petrol | Push-button start, Smartplay Studio, height-adjustable driver seat, rear wiper |
| Dream Edition | Manual | Petrol | Rear parking camera, accessory pack worth Rs. 11,000, 14-inch wheels |
The Dream Edition, launched as a limited-run model, adds value with additional accessories at a competitive price point, while the top-spec ZXi+ AMT offers a near-premium experience in the hatchback segment.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Maruti Suzuki Celerio varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below are the ex-showroom prices (as of March 2025) sourced from CarDekho and CarWale, with on-road estimates for Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) | On-Road Price (Delhi) | On-Road Price (Mumbai) | On-Road Price (Bangalore) | On-Road Price (Chennai) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LXi | Rs. 5.64 Lakh | Rs. 6.27 Lakh | Rs. 6.35 Lakh | Rs. 6.45 Lakh | Rs. 6.40 Lakh |
| VXi MT | Rs. 6.00 Lakh | Rs. 6.65 Lakh | Rs. 6.75 Lakh | Rs. 6.85 Lakh | Rs. 6.80 Lakh |
| VXi AMT | Rs. 6.49 Lakh | Rs. 7.15 Lakh | Rs. 7.25 Lakh | Rs. 7.35 Lakh | Rs. 7.30 Lakh |
| VXi CNG | Rs. 6.74 Lakh | Rs. 7.45 Lakh | Rs. 7.55 Lakh | Rs. 7.65 Lakh | Rs. 7.60 Lakh |
| ZXi MT | Rs. 6.39 Lakh | Rs. 7.05 Lakh | Rs. 7.15 Lakh | Rs. 7.25 Lakh | Rs. 7.20 Lakh |
| ZXi AMT | Rs. 6.88 Lakh | Rs. 7.55 Lakh | Rs. 7.65 Lakh | Rs. 7.75 Lakh | Rs. 7.70 Lakh |
| ZXi+ MT | Rs. 7.04 Lakh | Rs. 7.75 Lakh | Rs. 7.85 Lakh | Rs. 7.95 Lakh | Rs. 7.90 Lakh |
| ZXi+ AMT | Rs. 7.37 Lakh | Rs. 8.10 Lakh | Rs. 8.20 Lakh | Rs. 8.30 Lakh | Rs. 8.25 Lakh |
| Dream Edition | Rs. 4.99 Lakh | Rs. 5.55 Lakh | Rs. 5.65 Lakh | Rs. 5.75 Lakh | Rs. 5.70 Lakh |
Note: On-road prices are approximate and include RTO, insurance, and additional charges, which may vary slightly based on dealership offers and accessories.
About Maruti Suzuki Celerio
Design and Aesthetics
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio embraces a minimalist yet functional design philosophy, reflecting Maruti’s approach to mass-market appeal. The second-generation model introduced in 2021 features a 3D Organic Sculpted Design, characterized by smooth, flowing lines and a rounded silhouette. The front fascia sports a radiant grille with subtle chrome accents, paired with halogen headlamps and circular fog lamps on higher trims. While the absence of LED DRLs might disappoint some, the design remains inoffensive and practical—perfect for buyers who prioritize utility over flamboyance.
At the sides, the Celerio’s 15-inch black alloy wheels (on ZXi and ZXi+ variants) add a touch of modernity, while the increased wheelbase (2435 mm) and width (1655 mm) improve its proportions compared to its predecessor. The rear design, with droplet-styled taillamps, maintains a cohesive look. Available in seven monotone colors—Pearl Caffeine Brown, Metallic Speedy Blue, Solid Fire Red, Pearl Arctic White, Metallic Silky Silver, Metallic Glistening Grey, and Pearl Bluish Black—the Celerio offers decent customization options. However, its understated styling might not turn heads like some rivals, such as the Tata Tiago with its sharper lines.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Maruti Suzuki Celerio, and you’re greeted by a surprisingly spacious cabin for its segment. The all-black interior, accented with silver inserts, feels modern and less dated than the beige-heavy designs of older Maruti models. The dashboard layout is simple yet functional, housing a 7-inch Smartplay Studio infotainment system on higher variants, complete with smartphone navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The placement of power window controls on the center console might feel quirky to some, but it’s a minor adjustment.
Seating comfort is a strong suit, with ample headroom and legroom for front occupants, even for taller drivers, thanks to the height-adjustable driver seat and tilt steering (ZXi and above). The rear bench, with a 60:40 split on top trims, accommodates two six-footers comfortably, though three passengers might feel cramped due to limited width. The 313-litre boot space is practical for a hatchback, easily swallowing weekend luggage or grocery hauls. Storage options, including door pockets and four bottle holders, enhance everyday usability.
However, the cabin isn’t without flaws. The use of hard plastics is evident, and fit-finish quality lags behind competitors like the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. The lack of rear AC vents and automatic climate control might also deter buyers seeking a premium feel. Still, for its price, the Celerio strikes a balance between practicality and comfort, making it an ideal choice for small families or first-time car buyers.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Maruti Suzuki Celerio houses the K10C 1.0-litre petrol engine, a three-cylinder unit with Dual Jet and Dual VVT technology. Producing 65.71 bhp and 89 Nm in petrol mode, it’s tuned for efficiency rather than outright performance. The engine feels refined at idle, with minimal vibrations for a three-cylinder setup, and delivers linear power in city conditions. Overtaking on highways is manageable, thanks to the peppy motor, though it lacks the punch of larger engines like the 1.2-litre unit in the Tata Tiago.
Transmission options include a slick 5-speed manual with short throws and a 5-speed AMT, the latter being a boon for urban commuters. The AMT, while improved over earlier iterations, can feel jerky at low speeds—a trade-off for its convenience and fuel savings. The CNG variant, exclusive to the VXi trim, dials down power to 55.92 bhp but compensates with a stellar 34.43 km/kg mileage, making it a cost-effective choice where CNG is available.
The suspension—MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam at the rear—is tuned for comfort, soaking up minor bumps well. However, body roll is noticeable on sharp corners, and high-speed stability could inspire more confidence. The steering, light and easy for parking, feels vague at higher speeds, lacking the feedback of rivals like the Tiago. With a ground clearance of 170 mm, the Celerio handles urban roads and speed breakers adeptly, though it’s not suited for rough terrains.
Safety Features
Safety has been a focal point for the updated Maruti Suzuki Celerio, with six airbags now standard across all variants as of 2025—a significant leap from its earlier dual-airbag setup. This move addresses past criticisms of Maruti’s safety standards, though the Celerio awaits a fresh Global NCAP rating (the first-gen scored zero stars in 2016). Other safety features include ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist (AMT variants), rear parking sensors, and an electronic stability program (ESP) on higher trims.
The Dream Edition adds a rear parking camera, enhancing practicality. While these upgrades are commendable, the Celerio still lacks advanced features like a reverse camera on most variants or ADAS, which some competitors offer in higher segments. The lightweight HEARTECT platform improves structural rigidity, but its real-world crash performance remains untested in the latest iteration.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio shines in the fuel efficiency department, a key selling point for budget-conscious buyers. The petrol manual variants deliver 24.97-25.24 kmpl, while the AMT variants achieve up to 26.68 kmpl (VXi AMT)—among the best in its class. Real-world figures, as tested by CarWale, hover around 18-23 kmpl, depending on city or highway conditions. The CNG variant’s 34.43 km/kg mileage is a game-changer, especially in metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai, where CNG costs less than petrol.
Low maintenance costs, a hallmark of Maruti vehicles, further bolster its appeal. Spare parts are affordable and widely available, and the extensive service network ensures hassle-free ownership. Compared to rivals, the Celerio’s running costs are competitive, making it a practical long-term investment.
Target Audience and Practicality
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio targets urban dwellers, small families, and first-time buyers seeking an easy-to-drive, economical car. Its compact dimensions (3695 mm length) and tight turning radius make it a breeze to maneuver through traffic and park in tight spaces—a boon in metro cities. The AMT option appeals to those transitioning from two-wheelers or seeking automatic convenience without breaking the bank.
For small families, the Celerio offers adequate space, decent features, and low running costs. The CNG variant caters to eco-conscious buyers or those in CNG-rich regions, while the petrol trims suit a broader audience. However, it’s not designed for long highway trips or buyers craving a feature-rich, premium experience—areas where competitors like the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios excel.
Close Competitors
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio operates in a crowded hatchback segment, facing stiff competition from models offering similar pricing and features. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its key rivals:
Tata Tiago
The Tata Tiago is a formidable competitor, priced between Rs. 5.65 Lakh and Rs. 8.90 Lakh (ex-showroom). It’s powered by a 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine (86 bhp, 113 Nm), offering more grunt than the Celerio’s 1.0-litre unit. The Tiago’s bold design, with projector headlamps and a sculpted grille, appeals to younger buyers, and its 4-star Global NCAP rating trumps the Celerio’s untested safety credentials. Features like a Harman infotainment system and automatic climate control give it an edge in cabin quality. However, its mileage (23.84 kmpl) lags behind the Celerio, and maintenance costs are slightly higher.
Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
Priced from Rs. 5.92 Lakh to Rs. 8.56 Lakh, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios brings a premium vibe to the segment. Its 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine (83 bhp, 114 Nm) outperforms the Celerio, and the refined cabin, with better plastics and rear AC vents, feels upscale. Safety features include up to six airbags and a 3-star Global NCAP rating. The Nios’s mileage (20-21 kmpl) is lower, and its higher price might deter budget buyers. It’s ideal for those prioritizing comfort and style over outright efficiency.
Maruti Wagon R
The Maruti Wagon R, a sibling rival, ranges from Rs. 5.54 Lakh to Rs. 7.38 Lakh. Sharing the K10C engine (67 bhp) and offering a 1.2-litre option (90 bhp), it matches the Celerio’s efficiency (24-34 km/kg with CNG) while providing a taller, boxier design with more headroom. Its utilitarian appeal and lower base price attract practical buyers, but it lacks the Celerio’s modern styling and AMT smoothness. Safety features are similar, with dual airbags standard (six on higher trims).
Verdict on Competition
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio holds its ground with superior fuel efficiency, low ownership costs, and the AMT advantage, making it the go-to choice for mileage-focused urbanites. The Tata Tiago wins on safety and power, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios on refinement, and the Maruti Wagon R on space and affordability. Buyers must weigh their priorities—efficiency (Celerio), safety (Tiago), premium feel (Nios), or utility (Wagon R)—to pick the right hatchback.
Final Thoughts!
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio remains a compelling option in India’s entry-level hatchback market, blending affordability, efficiency, and practicality with a dash of modern flair. Its K10C engine, lightweight build, and stellar mileage—up to 26.68 kmpl (petrol) and 34.43 km/kg (CNG)—make it a standout for cost-conscious buyers. The addition of six airbags in 2025 addresses safety concerns, while the AMT gearbox broadens its appeal. Though it lacks the punch or premium features of rivals, its strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and Maruti’s unmatched service ecosystem.
For city commuters and small families, the Celerio delivers a no-nonsense ownership experience. Against competitors like the Tata Tiago, Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, and Maruti Wagon R, it shines as the efficiency king, though it cedes ground in power, safety ratings, or cabin refinement. Whether it’s the budget-friendly Dream Edition or the feature-packed ZXi+ AMT, the Celerio proves that practical doesn’t have to mean boring—it’s a smart, sensible choice for the pragmatic buyer.
