Ciaz the robo

Ciaz the robo

The Ciaz sedan has been updated in September, 2015. While there are no changes to the petrol car, the diesel model is the first one to use the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle from Suzuki) technology. The mild hybrid version works in tandem with the diesel engine and further improves the fuel efficiency of the C-segment sedan. The design of the Ciaz is based on the Suzuki Authentics concept which was showcased first at the 2014 Shanghai Motor Show in April and then shown in production form as the China-spec Alivio sedan. It gets an aggressive front fascia with a trapezoidal front grille that features ample amount of chrome. The sweptback headlights and the elongated hood further enhance its street presence. The side profile is a rather conservative affair but one that works for Maruti Suzuki. It features delicately flared wheel arches, chrome door handles and a strong shoulder line which works well with the forward leaning stance of the car. At the rear, the Ciaz gets the standard wrap around tail lamps which lend the car a premium look. The rear bumper is large and includes integrated reflectors. There’s also a lip spoiler and chrome badges across all variants. Inside, the Ciaz gets a simple and clutter-free design. The dashboard design is reminiscent of other Maruti models including the Ertiga and the Swift Dzire with its all-beige treatment. The car gets keyless entry and start, Aux-in, USB, Bluetooth streaming with telephony, automatic retract for the ORVMs, reversing camera and navigation system. It also gets a sunshade for the rear windscreen, which will be appreciated by occupants at the rear. The integrated audio system is a touch screen unit – a segment first. The steering gets controls for the audio system and telephony controls on the left unlike the competition that has buttons spread on either sides. The faux-wood and aluminium inserts, light colour of the upholstery and plastics lend a bright and airy feel to the interior. In terms of safety, all but the base variant get ABS-EBD and front airbags. The base variant on the other hand has to make do with driver-side airbag. The petrol versions of the Ciaz continue to use 1.4-litre K-series petrol engine producing 94bhp and 134Nm of torque. While there is no difference in the diesel engine either, it now gets Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), larger battery and braking energy recuperation. The larger battery is charged by the brakes, which help in engine start-stop, also the battery assists the crank in developing torque and takes some load of the engine. The Ciaz hybrid has ARAI rated efficiency of 28.09kmpl, making it the most efficient car in the country. The petrol model continues to return 20.79kmpl. The diesel engine comes coupled with the five-speed manual gearbox, the petrol on the other hand is available with a five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission. The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz puts up a strong case for itself when it comes to value for money. It competes with others C-segment vehicles such as the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Vento and the Skoda Rapid among others.