Maruti Ciaz 2014-2017 VXi

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has always managed to regain its top spot by introducing new car models in the market. This time around, it has launched a brand new sedan christened as Ciaz, which is offered with both petrol and diesel engine options. There are four trim levels available in this series among which, Maruti Ciaz VXi is the entry level petrol trim. It is equipped with a 1.4-litre, K-series, K14B petrol mill that is mated with a five speed manual transmission. The car maker claims that this petrol trim is capable of producing a maximum mileage of 20.73 Kmpl, which is surprisingly good. Although, it is the base trim, its interiors are well furnished with several important features like an AC unit, power windows, internally adjustable outside mirrors and numerous other utility features. At the same time, it is also incorporated with crucial safety features including an engine immobilizer, side impact beams and seat belts. Its body is constructed using high tensile steel, which makes it rigid can capable enough to deal with minor accidents. This sedan has a best-in-class cabin space owing to its impressive length, width and height. It will be a direct competitor to other popular sedans like Honda City and Hyundai Verna in the country's automobile market.

Exteriors:

Its front profile has neat radiator grille with horizontal chrome slats. Surrounding this is the radiant headlight cluster that is incorporated with high intensity lamps and turn indicators. Its front body colored bumper has an integrated spoiler and a wide air dam, which provides better air intake. There is a provision to equip a pair of fog lamps as well. The overall look is complimented by the chrome plated 'S' insignia embedded on to the grille. Its side profile is very sleek, which defines its aerodynamic stance. It gets all the conventional features like body colored door handles, external wing mirrors and black B pillars. However, its wheel arches have been fitted with a set of 15-inch steel wheels including full wheel caps. Its rear profile is the most attractive part as it has a lustrous tailgate, which is further decorated with chrome inserts. The taillight cluster is wide, but is equipped with halogen based brake lights, courtesy lamp and turn indicator. Not to forget that the rear bumper has a distinct look, thanks to its reflector console that gives it a sporty appeal.

Interiors:

The interiors of this Maruti Ciaz VXi trim are well furnished and done up with a dual tone color scheme. The most important aspect is its ample leg, shoulder and head space. It is built with a total wheelbase of 2650mm and width of 1730mm (excluding ORVMs), which is quite roomy. On the other hand, it also has a huge 510 litre boot compartment, which can be extended further by folding its rear bench seat. Its cockpit has a large dashboard with a beautiful central fascia that houses its gear box and the AC unit along with quite a few storage spaces. Its instrument panel has two round shaped meters with trendy dials and has a digital screen as well. It provides information related to vehicle's speed, tripmeter, gearshift indicator and several other such notifications. On the other hand, this base trim has necessary features like sun visors, a large glove box, overhead storage console and center armrest.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is equipped with a refined 1.4-litre, K-Series petrol engine that has a multipoint fuel injection system. It comprises of 4-cylinders and 16-valves that displaces 1373cc. It is also integrated with a variable geometry turbocharger that helps it to unleash a maximum power of 91.2bhp at 6000rpm and generates a maximum torque output of 130Nm at just 4000rpm. This engine is mated with a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox that sends the torque output to its front wheels. This vehicle can reach a top speed in the range of 150 to 160 Kmph, while breaching the 100 Kmph speed mark in approximately 13 seconds, which is rather good.

Braking and Handling:

It has a conventional braking system with front ventilated discs and rear drum brakes. On the other hand, it gets McPherson Strut fitted to its front axle and torsion beam suspension to its rear axle. It is also integrated with a highly responsive power assisted steering system that makes handling simpler.

Comfort Features:

This Maruti Ciaz VXi is the base variant and is equipped with several important comfort features. Its dashboard is equipped with a proficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit that regulates the air temperature inside and keeps the ambiance pleasant. The seats are wide with excellent support all the way from head to the thighs and are covered with fabric upholstery. The list of its comfort features includes power windows with one touch operation, front center armrest with utility box, drink holders and front sun visors with passenger's side vanity mirror. It also has features like a large glove box, storage pockets, grab handles, two accessory power sockets, electrically adjustable outside mirrors, and front intermittent wipers. The car maker has also integrated a music system that has CD player along with connectivity ports for USB devices.

Safety Features:

This sedan is built with Suzuki's total effective technology (S-TECT) using high tensile steel material that ensures maximized protection in case of an accident. It has three point ELR seat belts for all seats featuring pre-tensioner and force limiter function. Furthermore, it has aspects like ISOFIX child locks, side impact protection beams, door lock canceler function and adjustable head rests. This base trim is also integrated with anti-theft security system that will not allow the engine to start until the original key is used. It also has rear reflectors, high mount third brake light, high intensity headlamps, an inside rear view mirror with manual dimming, engine immobilizer and driver's seatbelt warning notification as well.

Pros:

1. Plush interior design with ample cabin space.

2. Cost of ownership and maintenance is quite economical.

Cons:

1. Low ground clearance is a big drawback.

2. Rear parking camera and infotainment system can be offered as standard.