Maruti Ciaz 2014-2017 VDi Plus SHVS

The much awaited Ciaz hybrid has finally entered the Indian car market. This time, it comes with the environment friendly hybrid technology, which is rather fuel efficient. One of its variants, Maruti Ciaz VDi Plus SHVS has a 1.3-litre diesel motor fitted under its hood. This can produce 88.5bhp peak power along with torque of 200Nm. Being paired with a manual transmission, it can achieve an impressive speed. This sedan has its front and rear wheels equipped with disc and drum brakes, which are highly reliable. The manufacturer has also left no stone unturned when it is about passenger safety. It is bestowed with some of the necessary features like dual front airbags, immobilizer, seat belts with force limiters, rear defogger and so on. Look wise, it is simply stunning with a pair of fog lamps at front and a large windscreen that gives a clear view of the path ahead. There are steel wheels on sides, whereas the rear end has luminous tail lamps, and a boot lid with SHVS badge embossed on it. The interiors, on the other hand, houses a chrome garnished steering wheel, fabric upholstered seats, accessory socket, outside temperature display and various such functions. Also a music system remains the key factor for its passengers' entertainment. On the whole, it is not just looks and style, but with its amazing performance too, this sedan impresses its buyers.

Exteriors:

The aerodynamic style and visible character lines, are the main elements that gives it an amazing appeal. The radiator grille is quite bold and has the neat touch-up of chrome on its horizontal slats. The company's badge on these slats highlights it further. Surrounding this grille is a stylish headlight cluster, which houses projector headlamps and turn indicators too. The design of this cluster enhances the overall look of its frontage. The round shaped fog lamps and an airdam are equipped to its bumper that is well sculpted and painted in body color. Its side profile is as attractive as its front fascia. The flared up wheel arches are fitted with a set of 15 inch steel wheels. These have wheel covers and radial tubeless tyres of size 185/65 R15. Besides these, it also comes with black B-pillars, door handles and body colored outside mirrors that are integrated with side turn indicators. Moving to its rear end, the windshield has a defogger and the boot lid is embossed with prominent insignia as well as SHVS badging. Other aspects like a trendy tail light cluster and a bumper completes its rear profile.

Interiors:

Starting with its dashboard to well cushioned seats, everything inside the cabin is designed perfectly. The combination of black and beige colors give a pleasant feel to its passengers. The cockpit looks quite modernistic with a a steering wheel, center console and an AC unit. One among these equipments is the instrument cluster that provides different notifications and updates about the vehicle. The glove box compartment is useful for keeping necessary stuff at hand, while the air vents spread air throughout the cabin. There is place for five people, whom are also guaranteed with ample head and leg room. The seats are made to provide good support and comfort. These are covered with fabric upholstery and integrated with head rests as well. Moreover, the chrome finish on door handles, parking brake lever, AC louvers knob and steering wheel presents a grand look to its interiors. Also, it has outside temperature display, illumination control, front and rear accessory sockets that are useful for charging electronic gadgets. Coming to boot compartment, it measures about 510 litres. By folding the rear seat, this space can be increased further.

Engine and Performance:

The significant change in this trim is the addition of an integrated starter generator, start-stop technology and a larger capacity battery, which altogether aids in improving its fuel economy. This hybrid vehicle can give an outstanding mileage of 28.09 Kmpl. On the other hand, it carries the same 1.3-litre diesel power plant that is compliant with BS IV standard emission norms. The variable geometry turbocharger which it comes with, further boosts the power and torque, which are 88.5bhp and 200Nm respectively. This mill with four cylinders and 16 valves, is based on a DOHC valve configuration. Through the common rail injection system, it receives the fuel and displaces 1248cc. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission gear box. This helps in good acceleration, pickup and all round performance.

Braking and Handling:

The manufacturer ensures the best braking performance with ventilated disc and drum brakes on its front and rear wheels respectively. For further boost in this mechanism, it is offered with anti lock braking system that prevents skidding as well. Meanwhile, its axles are assembled with an efficient suspension system that ensures smooth and jerk free driving experience. A McPherson strut is affixed on the front axle, whereas the rear one gets a torsion beam. Coming to its power steering, it assists to maneuver even through uneven roads easily. The tilt adjustment facility to this system is a plus point.

Comfort Features:

An automatic air conditioning unit in this mid range trim is certainly one of its primary aspect. This comes with pollen filter, while there are rear air vents provided in the rear cabin. A utility box is present in the front center armrest and the rear one has cup holders. Through the switches mounted on its steering wheel, the occupants can operate the music system, which has a CD player, speakers and tweeters as well. This unit even supports USB port and Bluetooth connectivity. The driver can adjust the seat height as required, whereas the instrument panel gives information about fuel consumption. Even the outside mirrors can be adjusted electrically, and the power windows have auto up/down and anti pinch function on the driver's side. More aspects like gear shift indicator, illuminated console box, keyless entry, and electric trunk opening adds to their convenience.

Safety Features:

High level of security is guaranteed with this variant as it is bestowed with various such vital aspects. These include anti lock braking system, dual front airbags, rear defogger as well as seat belt with pretensioner and force limiters. In addition to these, it also has manual dimming inside rear view mirror, reverse parking sensor, engine immobilizer, security alarm and driver seat belt reminder with buzzer.

Pros:

1. Healthy mileage is one of its plus point.
2. Good all round engine performance.

Cons:

1. More comfort aspects can be added.
2. Interior styling needs a slight improvement.