Swift Dzire 2014-2017 VXI Review
In a sudden surprise to the Indian automobile market, MSIL has launched the facelifted version of its best-selling compact sedan, Swift Dzire. The manufacturer has silently introduced this vehicle days before the official launch date. At the same time, it also rolled out a new variant in this series, which takes the overall tally to eight. Among these, Maruti Swift Dzire VXI is the mid range petrol trim, which is powered by the same 1.2-litre K Series VVT petrol engine under the hood. However, this power plant has undergone some changes, which enhances its fuel efficiency to 20.85 Kmpl. As a result of this, its power output is reduced, while the torque has been improved to 115Nm. This newly launched version gets several changes to its exteriors, especially to the front facade in the form of a new chrome grille, black tinted headlight cluster and bumpers. Its side profile remains untouched, but the design of wheel covers have been tweaked. Coming to the interiors, its rear cabin now hosts new seat of features like accessory power socket and center armrest, which enhances the convenience. This compact sedan will now lock horns with the likes of Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent and Tata Zest in the Indian automobile market.
Exteriors:
Like mentioned above, the exteriors of Maruti Swift Dzire VXI gets a few modifications, which makes it look even trendier. Its radiator grille has received a complete overhaul with a new perforated mesh, which is affixed with a thick chrome plated bar. The headlight cluster continuous to be large, but its insides has black accents that gives it an aggressive stance. The front bumper too received an update in the form of modified air ducts and a pronounced air dam. Furthermore, it is decorated with expressively designed chrome strips, which gives a majestic look to the frontage. The side profile remains similar to its predecessor, but there is an update to the design of its wheel covers. Apart from this, its ORVM caps are now bestowed with electric folding function. On the other hand, its A and B pillars continuous to be in black color, whereas the door handles and wing mirrors are in body color. Coming to the rear, there is a minor tweak given to the design of its bumper, while the other exterior cosmetics have been retained. The overall look of its rear is complimented by the extensive chrome accents given on its tailgate.
Interiors:
Coming to the interiors, this trim has a dual tone color scheme. Apart from a few additional features, there are no changes made to the cabin. To start with, its rear seat passengers can now experience a comfortable traveling experience with the help of the center armrest and with an accessory power socket. Its cockpit has the same layered dashboard that is skilfully decorated with wood along with metallic accents. The steering wheel has three spoke design, which is elegantly decorated with chrome plated company's badge. Just behind this, there is a small instrument cluster featuring two analogue meters along with a multi-functional display. It houses several notification lamps along with utility functions, which keeps the driver informed. The seats inside are ergonomically designed featuring adjustable head restraints and have been covered with premium fabric upholstery.
Engine and Performance:
The manufacturer has equipped this trim with a refined 1.2-litre, K-Series VVT petrol engine that has a displacement capacity of 1197cc. This power plant is based on the double overhead camshaft valve configuration featuring four cylinders and 16-valves. As a result of modifications, this naturally aspirated engine can pump out a maximum power of 83.14bhp at 6000rpm and yields a mammoth torque of 115Nm at 4000rpm. This torque output is sent to the front wheels through an advanced five speed manual transmission gearbox. This engine is now capable of producing a maximum mileage of 20.85Kmpl, which is rather impressive.
Braking and Handling:
This Maruti Swift Dzire VXI trim is integrated with a highly responsive electric power assisted steering system, which is based on arack and pinion mechanism. Its supports a minimum turning radius of just 4.8-meters, which makes it easy to park and glide through tight corners. This sub 4-meter sedan is also blessed with a robust suspension system, which is capable of absorbing jerks caused on uneven roads. The manufacture has fitted its front axle with a McPherson strut and paired its rear one with torsion beam suspension, which keeps it stable on bumpy roads. In terms of braking, this vehicle gets a ventilated disc and drum braking mechanism for its front and rear wheels respectively, which delivers reliable performance.
Comfort Features:
This mid range petrol trim is now bestowed with a few utility based aspects, which enhances the convenience inside. They are center armrest and accessory power socket, which are provided in the rear cabin. Apart from these, its remaining features have been retained from its predecessor. The list includes double horn, tilt adjustable steering column, adjustable head restraints, front seats back pockets and a manual air conditioning system. In addition to these, it also has two-speed fixed intermittent wipers, green tinted glass, cabin lamps, remote fuel lid opener and front passenger's sun visor with vanity mirror. Beside these, it has power windows, central door locking, remote back door opening, electrically adjustable including foldable ORVMs and a large glove box. Above all these, this mid range trim gets an refined audio system that has a radio tuner along with a CD player and connectivity port for USB device.
Safety Features:
In terms of safety, this mid range variant gets a few essential protective aspects, which helps to minimize the risk of injury for passengers. It has three point ELR seat belts, a security alarm system, rear door child locks, and speed sensitive automatic door locks. Furthermore, it is also integrated with an engine immobilization device, which safeguards the vehicle from theft or from unauthorized access. On the other hand, this vehicle also has crumple zones and impact protection beams incorporated in its high strength body structure, which minimizes the collision impact and maximizes the protection to the occupants.
Pros:
1. Initial cost of ownership is rather competitive.
2. Improvement in fuel economy adds to its advantage.
Cons:
1. Safety and comfort features are poor.
2. There are no cup holders on rear center armrest.
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