Maruti Suzuki S-Presso  : In a market obsessed with SUVs of all shapes and sizes, Maruti Suzuki took an interesting gamble with the S-Presso. This little vehicle doesn’t fit neatly into any traditional category—it’s not quite a hatchback, not really an SUV, yet it borrows elements from both worlds to create something uniquely its own.

The result is a polarizing product that some dismiss as oddly styled while others embrace for its practicality and affordability. After spending time with one, you realize the S-Presso makes more sense than its unconventional appearance might initially suggest.

Design That Sparks Conversation

The S-Presso’s styling certainly won’t win universal acclaim. The boxy proportions and upright stance give it an almost toy-like appearance that divides opinions sharply. The front end features a tall bonnet, high-set headlamps, and a grille that attempts to inject some aggression into the friendly face. Cladding around the wheel arches and lower body panels reinforces the pseudo-SUV character Maruti is aiming for.

From the side, the tall greenhouse and short overhangs maximize interior space while keeping the overall footprint compact. The ground clearance of 180mm is genuinely impressive for something this size, allowing you to tackle rough roads and speed breakers without constantly worrying about scraping the underbody. The overall design prioritizes function over form, which becomes more apparent the longer you live with the vehicle.

Maruti offers the S-Presso in vibrant color options that suit its youthful, fun character. The dual-tone roof variants add visual interest, though the basic silhouette remains polarizing regardless of the paint scheme chosen.

Engine and Performance Basics

Under the hood sits Maruti’s familiar 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine producing 68 bhp and 90 Nm of torque. This motor has proven itself across multiple Maruti models, offering reliability and frugal fuel consumption.

Don’t expect thrilling performance—the S-Presso prioritizes efficiency over excitement. Around town, the engine feels adequately peppy, with enough low-end response to make navigating traffic reasonably painless.

The lightweight construction works in the S-Presso’s favor. Weighing just around 720 kilograms, the little engine doesn’t struggle to move the vehicle along. Acceleration feels brisk enough off the line, though momentum drops noticeably when climbing steeper inclines or carrying a full load of passengers.

Transmission options include a five-speed manual and an AMT automatic. The manual gearbox operates with typical Maruti smoothness, shifting cleanly through its gates without requiring excessive effort.

The AMT works acceptably for relaxed city driving, though it exhibits the characteristic hesitation during gear changes that defines this technology. For buyers prioritizing convenience in stop-and-go traffic, it serves its purpose adequately despite lacking the refinement of conventional automatics.

Interior Space and Practicality

Open the door and the S-Presso surprises with how spacious it feels inside. The tall roofline and upright seating position create genuinely impressive headroom—even tall passengers won’t find themselves ducking.

The front seats are basic but provide acceptable comfort for daily commutes. Visibility is excellent in all directions thanks to the large glass area and slim pillars, making parking and maneuvering through tight spaces remarkably easy.

The rear seat accommodates two adults comfortably, with adequate legroom considering the vehicle’s compact footprint. Three adults will find things cramped, but for short journeys, it’s manageable. The flat floor helps maximize usable space, and the upright seating position keeps everyone comfortable.

The dashboard design is refreshingly simple. Basic variants get an analog instrument cluster, while higher trims add a small digital display. The touchscreen infotainment system on top variants handles smartphone connectivity adequately, though the interface feels a generation behind more modern systems. Still, it works reliably for navigation, music, and hands-free calling.

Boot space measures 239 liters, which sounds modest but proves sufficient for grocery runs and small luggage. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity when needed, adding versatility to the package.

KTM Duke 250 – College boy’s darling comes with powerful engine

Key Highlights:

• 1.0L petrol engine with 68 bhp

• Impressive 180mm ground clearance

• Lightweight at 720 kg

• 21-22 km/l fuel efficiency

• AMT automatic option available

• Spacious cabin with excellent headroom

• 239-liter boot capacity

• Low maintenance costs

• Affordable pricing

• Extensive service network support

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso Running Costs That Make Sense

Here’s where the S-Presso builds its strongest case. Fuel efficiency consistently delivers around 21-22 kilometers per liter in real-world mixed driving, keeping running costs impressively low. The AMT variants squeeze out slightly better figures, making them attractive for those spending hours in traffic daily.

Maintenance costs remain minimal thanks to the proven mechanicals and Maruti’s extensive service network. Parts are readily available and affordably priced, while service intervals are reasonably spaced.

Insurance premiums stay low throughout ownership, and the vehicle’s strong resale value means your investment holds up reasonably well.

The S-Presso targets specific buyers—first-time car owners, small families on tight budgets, or those needing basic transportation prioritizing economy over everything else. It won’t impress enthusiasts or status-conscious buyers, but it delivers honest value for those who prioritize practicality.