The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is a compact hatchback that has carved a niche for itself in the Indian automotive market since its launch in September 2019. Designed to cater to the needs of budget-conscious buyers seeking a blend of affordability, practicality, and a hint of SUV-inspired styling, the S-Presso stands out with its tall-boy design and high ground clearance. Maruti Suzuki markets it as a micro-SUV, a term that reflects its elevated stance and rugged appeal, though it remains firmly rooted in the hatchback segment. This vehicle is a product of Maruti Suzuki’s Arena dealership network, positioning it as an entry-level offering that competes with the likes of the Renault Kwid and Tata Punch. With a peppy engine, impressive fuel efficiency, and a spacious cabin despite its compact footprint, the S-Presso appeals to first-time car buyers, small families, and urban dwellers navigating congested city streets and uneven roads.
The S-Presso’s quirky design, affordability, and low maintenance costs have made it a popular choice in India, a market where practicality often trumps luxury. Its bold front fascia, high seating position, and competitive pricing have earned it a loyal fanbase. Available in both petrol and CNG variants, along with manual and automatic transmission options, the S-Presso offers versatility to suit diverse driving preferences. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore its technical specifications, available variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of its features, performance, and how it stacks up against its close competitors.
About the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso
The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is a vehicle that embodies the ethos of affordability and functionality, two pillars that have long defined Maruti’s dominance in the Indian market. Launched as a successor to the iconic Alto, the S-Presso brings a fresh perspective with its boxy silhouette and SUV-inspired design cues. Measuring just 3,565 mm in length, 1,520 mm in width, and 1,567 mm in height, it’s a compact car that maximizes interior space while maintaining a small footprint—perfect for weaving through traffic or parking in tight urban spaces. Its 180 mm ground clearance is a standout feature, allowing it to tackle potholes, speed bumps, and uneven roads with ease, a critical advantage in a country like India where road conditions can vary drastically.
Under the hood, the S-Presso is powered by a 1.0-litre K10C petrol engine, a three-cylinder unit that delivers 66 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 89 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm in its petrol guise. This engine, equipped with dual-jet and dual-VVT technology, ensures a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for city commutes and occasional highway drives. The CNG variant, on the other hand, produces a slightly lower 56 bhp and 82.1 Nm of torque but compensates with exceptional mileage, appealing to cost-conscious buyers and fleet operators. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT (Auto Gear Shift), the latter being a boon for those seeking convenience in stop-and-go traffic. The inclusion of Idle Start-Stop technology in newer models further enhances its fuel economy, placing it among the most efficient cars in its segment.
Inside, the S-Presso surprises with its spaciousness. Despite its compact exterior, it offers ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for four adults, making it a viable family car. The cabin features an all-black theme with a circular centre console housing a 7-inch SmartPlay Studio touchscreen infotainment system (in higher variants) that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The instrument cluster, uniquely positioned at the center of the dashboard rather than behind the steering wheel, takes some getting used to but adds a quirky charm. While the materials used are budget-oriented with hard plastics dominating the interior, the fit and finish are decent for its price point. The seats are cushioned softly, offering comfort for short drives, though longer journeys might reveal a need for firmer support.
Safety is a mixed bag with the S-Presso. It comes equipped with standard features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a speed alert system. Higher variants add Hill Hold Assist (for AMT models) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which became standard across the lineup in 2023. However, its Global NCAP safety rating of 0 stars (tested in 2020 under older protocols) raises concerns about its structural integrity in high-impact collisions. This is a notable drawback, especially when competitors like the Tata Punch boast higher safety credentials.
The S-Presso’s ride quality is another highlight. Its well-tuned suspension handles bumpy roads admirably, absorbing shocks effectively at moderate speeds. At low speeds, the lightweight chassis (kerb weight ranging from 834-854 kg) can feel a bit skittish, but it glides over imperfections when driven with confidence. On highways, the tall and narrow design demands cautious driving, particularly during lane changes or in windy conditions, as stability takes a hit beyond 80-100 kmph. The engine, while responsive in city conditions, feels strained when pushed hard, making the S-Presso better suited for relaxed cruising rather than spirited driving.
From an ownership perspective, the S-Presso shines with its low maintenance costs and widespread service network, a hallmark of Maruti Suzuki vehicles. Spare parts are affordable and readily available, and the car’s simplicity allows local mechanics to handle repairs with ease, reducing dependency on official service centers. Fuel efficiency is a strong selling point, with the petrol manual variant claiming up to 24.76 kmpl, the AMT variant reaching 25.30 kmpl, and the CNG version delivering an impressive 32.73 km/kg (ARAI figures). Real-world figures hover around 20-22 kmpl for petrol and 27-28 km/kg for CNG, depending on driving conditions, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuters and fleet operators alike.
The exterior design is polarizing. The bold front grille, twin-chamber headlamps, and high bonnet give it a rugged, mini-SUV vibe, while the boxy proportions and small 14-inch wheels (165/70 R14 in higher trims, 145/80 R13 in base models) lend it a quirky, almost toy-like appearance. Accessories like daytime running lamps, side cladding, and alloy wheels (available at an additional cost) can enhance its appeal, though they push the price closer to rivals in a higher segment. The rear, with its simple C-shaped tail lamps and minimalistic bumper, lacks flair but keeps the design functional.
In terms of features, the S-Presso offers a decent package for its price. The top-end VXi+ variant includes power windows (front only), keyless entry, steering-mounted audio controls, and a robust air conditioning system—sufficient for a budget car. However, it misses out on rear power windows, automatic climate control, a rear wiper, and a reverse parking camera, which some competitors offer. The 240-litre boot space is adequate for small families or weekend grocery runs, though it lags behind rivals like the Renault Kwid (279 litres).
The S-Presso’s market positioning is clear: it’s a no-frills, practical vehicle aimed at buyers prioritizing affordability and ease of use over luxury or advanced technology. Since its launch, it has sold well, thanks to Maruti’s extensive dealership network and brand trust. The addition of the Dream Series Limited Edition in 2024, priced at Rs. 4.99 lakh (ex-showroom), brought minor updates like additional accessories, reinforcing its value-for-money proposition.
Technical Specifications
Below is a detailed table of the technical specifications of the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso, compiled from sources like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest available data as of March 2025.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | K10C Petrol (Dual-Jet, Dual-VVT) |
| Displacement | 998 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 3 |
| Max Power (Petrol) | 65.71 bhp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Max Torque (Petrol) | 89 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
| Max Power (CNG) | 55.92 bhp @ 5,300 rpm |
| Max Torque (CNG) | 82.1 Nm @ 3,400 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual / 5-Speed AMT |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Mileage (Petrol MT) | 24.12 – 24.76 kmpl (ARAI) |
| Mileage (Petrol AMT) | 25.30 kmpl (ARAI) |
| Mileage (CNG) | 32.73 km/kg (ARAI) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 litres (Petrol) / 55 litres (CNG) |
| Length | 3,565 mm |
| Width | 1,520 mm |
| Height | 1,567 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,380 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 834-854 kg |
| Boot Space | 240 litres |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Tyre Size (Base) | 145/80 R13 |
| Tyre Size (Higher Variants) | 165/70 R14 |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front) | Ventilated Disc |
| Brakes (Rear) | Drum |
| Safety Features | Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, Hill Hold Assist (AMT) |
Note: Mileage figures are ARAI-certified; real-world results may vary.
Variants
The S-Presso is available in multiple variants, catering to different budgets and preferences. Below is a table listing the current variants as per the latest data from Maruti Suzuki’s official website and other sources.
| Variant | Fuel Type | Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Std (O) | Petrol | Manual | Basic features, manual AC, no power windows |
| LXi (O) | Petrol / CNG | Manual | Power steering, front power windows |
| VXi (O) | Petrol / CNG | Manual / AMT | Wheel covers, infotainment system, keyless entry |
| VXi+ (O) | Petrol / CNG | Manual / AMT | SmartPlay Studio, steering-mounted controls |
Note: The “(O)” denotes optional variants with additional features. CNG is not available with AMT.
Price in Metro Cities
The on-road price of the S-Presso varies across metro cities due to differences in ex-showroom pricing, RTO charges, and insurance. Below is a table with approximate on-road prices (as of March 2025) sourced from CarDekho and CarWale, assuming no additional discounts.
| Variant | Delhi | Mumbai | Bangalore | Chennai |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Std (O) | Rs. 4.94 Lakh | Rs. 5.10 Lakh | Rs. 5.15 Lakh | Rs. 5.05 Lakh |
| LXi (O) Petrol | Rs. 5.50 Lakh | Rs. 5.70 Lakh | Rs. 5.75 Lakh | Rs. 5.65 Lakh |
| VXi (O) Petrol MT | Rs. 5.80 Lakh | Rs. 6.00 Lakh | Rs. 6.05 Lakh | Rs. 5.95 Lakh |
| VXi+ (O) Petrol MT | Rs. 6.10 Lakh | Rs. 6.30 Lakh | Rs. 6.35 Lakh | Rs. 6.25 Lakh |
| VXi (O) AMT | Rs. 6.30 Lakh | Rs. 6.50 Lakh | Rs. 6.55 Lakh | Rs. 6.45 Lakh |
| VXi+ (O) AMT | Rs. 6.60 Lakh | Rs. 6.80 Lakh | Rs. 6.85 Lakh | Rs. 6.75 Lakh |
| LXi (O) CNG | Rs. 6.50 Lakh | Rs. 6.70 Lakh | Rs. 6.75 Lakh | Rs. 6.65 Lakh |
| VXi (O) CNG | Rs. 6.80 Lakh | Rs. 7.00 Lakh | Rs. 7.05 Lakh | Rs. 6.95 Lakh |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealer offers and taxes.
Close Competitors
The S-Presso operates in a fiercely competitive segment. Here’s how it compares with its close competitors:
Renault Kwid
The Renault Kwid is the S-Presso’s primary rival, sharing a similar micro-SUV positioning. Priced between Rs. 4.70 lakh and Rs. 6.45 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers a 1.0-litre petrol engine (67 bhp, 91 Nm) with manual and AMT options. The Kwid edges out the S-Presso with a larger 279-litre boot, a reverse camera in higher trims, and a slightly better safety rating (1 star, Global NCAP). However, its ground clearance (184 mm) is marginally higher, and its design is more universally appealing. The S-Presso counters with better fuel efficiency and Maruti’s superior service network.
Tata Punch
The Tata Punch, priced from Rs. 6.13 lakh to Rs. 10.20 lakh (ex-showroom), is a step up in size and price but competes with the S-Presso’s top variants. Its 1.2-litre petrol engine (85 bhp, 113 Nm) offers more power, and its 5-star Global NCAP rating is a significant advantage. With 187 mm of ground clearance and a premium interior, the Punch feels more robust, but it’s costlier and less fuel-efficient (18-20 kmpl) than the S-Presso.
Hyundai Exter
The Hyundai Exter (Rs. 6.13 lakh to Rs. 10.43 lakh, ex-showroom) is another strong contender with a 1.2-litre petrol engine (82 bhp, 114 Nm) and a modern feature set, including a sunroof and automatic climate control. Its 391-litre boot and 185 mm ground clearance outclass the S-Presso, but its higher price and lower mileage (19-21 kmpl) make it less budget-friendly.
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10
Within Maruti’s lineup, the Alto K10 (Rs. 3.99 lakh to Rs. 5.96 lakh, ex-showroom) shares the S-Presso’s engine and platform but lacks the SUV styling and ground clearance (167 mm). It’s cheaper and equally efficient (24-25 kmpl), making it an alternative for buyers not sold on the S-Presso’s design.
Final Thoughts!
The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is a compelling package for those seeking an affordable, practical, and fuel-efficient car with a dash of rugged charm. Its strengths lie in its compact size, high ground clearance, low running costs, and Maruti’s unmatched after-sales support. While it may not excel in safety, design appeal, or high-speed stability, it delivers where it matters most for its target audience: everyday usability and value for money. Against competitors, it holds its own with competitive pricing and efficiency, though it cedes ground to the Tata Punch in safety and the Hyundai Exter in features. For urban commuters and small families on a budget, the S-Presso remains a worthy contender in India’s crowded entry-level car market.
