Maruti Suzuki S-Presso

Maruti Suzuki cars are usually ergonomically super, so much so that you simply take this characteristic of Maruti cars for granted. For instance, the visibility from the driver’s seat is simply brilliant and makes light work of parking in the tightest of spots and driving in and around the city. Shorter drivers will certainly appreciate this. The turning radius of the S-Presso is only 4.5m, and that means it can fearlessly venture into the old town without struggling to get past narrow lanes.

Speaking of roads in the city, the S-Presso offers quite a harsh ride, especially over larger potholes. The roughness of the road can easily be felt inside the cabin, especially at slow speeds, but is a hoot to drive on the highways. However, we would have loved a softer setup considering the S-Presso is more of an urban car. The steering of the S-Presso lacks any feel, doesn’t self-centre, and has quite a bit of understeer. Cornering too isn’t reassuring as sitting high up amplifies the body roll and will make you nervous. The skinny 13in tyres also don’t offer much aid.

Knowing Maruti cars of the past and present, there is no doubt that the S-Presso is highly efficient and before the lockdown period, it would easily deliver anything between 18-19kmpl. However, in the past couple of months, the S-Presso hasn’t been used to its full potential hence the lowly 16kmpl. But with the lockdown lifted now, it’s time to take the mini SUV on a long drive while adhering to all the safety precautions of course.