Maruti Celerio 2014-2017 Green VXI

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has officially launched its first CNG version Maruti Celerio in the country's automobile markets. This latest version is available with all the features that are standard in the petrol VXI variant. Powering this trim, is the same 1.0-litre K10B aluminum petrol engine, which is presently under the hood of all its existing versions. It is also accompanied with a CNG fuel kit, which enhances its fuel efficiency to 31.7 Km/kg, which is remarkable. However, under the CNG mode, the power output goes down to 57bhp along with the torque output of 77Nm, which may not be a concern for the buyers. The car maker has introduced only one variant in the form of Maruti Celerio Green VXI and it is available with a 5-speed manual gearbox. This hatchback which was launched just few months back, is being doing pretty well for the company in terms of sales. Now in a bid to garner more sales, the company has introduced this CNG version that is said to be the most fuel efficient in its class. On the other hand, the company has retained its exterior and interior design like the other existing variants. This vehicle will now compete with the likes of Chevrolet Beat, Ford Figo and others in the entry level segment.

Exteriors:

The manufacturer has introduced the CNG version without any updates to its exteriors. It has the same body structure and exterior features like the existing VXI variant. To start with the front profile, it has body colored bumper that comes incorporated with a wide air dam for better air intake. The radiator grille is fitted with two horizontally positioned slats that are treated with chrome and embossed with the company's logo. This radiator grille is flanked by a large wraparound headlight cluster that is equipped with high intensity halogen headlamps and turn indicators. The bonnet has a flat design, but still it gives a decent appeal to the front profile. Its side profile has a very distinct body style with two expressive lines, which gives a modern look to the hatch. Its wheel arches have been fitted with a set of steel wheels that have been further equipped with full wheel covers. The side profile also has basic styling aspects like black colored door handles and ORVM caps. Its rear profile has an eye-catching structure with a curvy windscreen along with clear lens taillight cluster. The company has given a lot of chrome inserts on the boot lid, especially to the company's logo and to the model's lettering, which accentuates the rear profile.

Interiors:

The internal cabin of Maruti Celerio Green VXI trim is spacious with excellent leg and shoulder room. Although, its overall length is just 3600mm, it has a large wheelbase of 2425mm improves the total leg space. Its interiors have been done up with dual tone color scheme and it is complimented by metallic inserts given to the door handles, steering wheel and on the central console as well. The seating arrangement is very comfortable, thanks to the integrated headrests that provide excellent support to the occupants. The car maker has used premium quality fabric upholstery for covering these seats, which provides a pleasant feel to the occupants. On the other hand, this mid range trim comes equipped with utility aspects like three assist grips, five drink holders, three position cabin lights , floor carpets with needle punch, and front sun visors. Apart front these, the car maker has also installed several important comfort features, which makes it competitive.

Engine and Performance:

This latest variant is powered by the same 1.0-litre, K10B petrol engine, which is already performing duties in the other variants. However, it is associated with a CNG fuel kit, which further improves its fuel efficiency to 31.7 Km/kg, which is remarkable. This engine has 3-cylinders and 12-valves that produces 998cc and is further incorporated with intelligent-gas port injection system. Under the CNG mode, it can churn out a peak power of 57bhp in combination with a maximum torque of 77Nm, which is fairly decent. However, when switched to the petrol mode, it pumps out a peak power output of 67bhp at 6000rpm that results in generating a peak torque of 90Nm at 3500rpm. The company has coupled this engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox that allows the front wheels to draw the torque output.

Braking and Handling:

Its front wheels have been fitted with ventilated disc brakes, whereas the rear ones have been equipped with drum brakes. This disc and drum braking combination functions exceptionally well in all weather conditions and offers precise stopping of the vehicle. The car maker has developed a robust suspension mechanism, which keeps it stable on all road conditions. Its front axle is fitted with McPherson Strut suspension , while its rear axle is fitted with coupled torsion beam type of system. In a bid to boost the suspension mechanism, the company has also equipped this hatchback with coil springs as well. On the other hand, this it also comes with a highly reliable electric power assisted steering system, which reduces the efforts required by driver, especially at low speed levels.

Comfort Features:

This latest trim is comes with all the aspects that are already incorporated to the existing VXI variant. The list of features includes a manual air conditioning system with heater, antenna, central door locks, fuel lid opener, glove box lid , accessory power socket, all four electric power windows with driver's side auto down function, internally adjustable outside mirrors and power steering system. The car maker has also installed an advanced instrument panel with amber colored illumination that features a low fuel warning lamp, key-off reminder, driver's seat belt warning, headlamp-on notification and door ajar warning. Furthermore, it also comes equipped with fuel consumption display, digital clock and distance to empty indicator as well.

Safety Features:

This Maruti Celerio Green VXI trim comes with a list of safety aspects including rear center seat belt, headlight leveler, high mounted stop lamp, front ventilated disc brake, engine immobilizer, child proof rear door lock , front wipers with intermittent setting and a front washer.

Pros:

1. Fuel efficiency in CNG mode is good.

2. After sales service is impressive.

1. Lower ground clearance.

2. Luggage space is below par.