2018 Maruti Ciaz overview

                                     2018 Maruti Ciaz overview

Overview

Maruti Suzuki finally tasted the success in the mid-size sedan segment with the Ciaz. Much of the credit of this success goes to the Ciaz’s sensible design which is in line with the expectations of target market. Interiors too are made up of quality materials and spacious rear seat has made Ciaz favourite among the chauffeur-driven owners. The boot of Maruti Ciaz is equally spacious and has been laid down without any significant intrusions from the suspension towers. A 1.4-liter petrol engine putting out 92PS/130Nm and a 1.3-litre diesel engine making 90PS /200 Nm drive the front wheels of the Ciaz via 5- speed manual transmission. The petrol variants come with the optional convenience of automatic gearbox to make the drive hassle-free for the city dwellers. Priced in the range of Rs 7.77 -11.55 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), Maruti Ciaz is luring the buyers of Honda City and Hyundai Verna among others.

Exterior and Interior

Let’s get one thing straight - the Ciaz isn’t going to win design awards. But, at the same time, the looks won’t be looked down upon either. It’s as neutral as designs get, really. It gets projector headlamps as standard, and the 16-inch gunmetal-finish wheels look swell too. There’s not much else to talk about as far as design is concerned. It’s simple, clean and fuss-free.

Maruti’s big sedan delivers in oodles when it comes to space. The backseat, although not as roomy as a Honda City, ranks pretty high in terms of space and comfort. It gets segment staples such as a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, rear-AC vents and leatherette upholstery. But, there’s no sunroof, or even six airbags like the City and the Verna. It does get dual airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard across the range though.

Specifications

The Ciaz can be had with either a 1.4-litre petrol engine or a 1.3-litre diesel. The petrol motor develops 92PS of power and 130Nm of torque, whereas the diesel is good for 90PS and 200Nm. A 5-speed manual transmission is offered as standard, and the petrol engine can be had with a 4-speed automatic as well. The diesel engine is paired with Suzuki’s SHVS tech that helps cut back on emissions and bump up fuel efficiency. Speaking of which, the ARAI-certified fuel efficiency stands at 20.73kmpl (petrol-MT), 19.12kmpl (petrol-AT) and 28.09kmpl (diesel) respectively.

Variants

With its shift to Nexa, the variants of the Ciaz have been renamed. It continues to be offered in four trims - Sigma, Delta, Zeta and Alpha. Barring the base variant, an automatic transmission is available on all variants of the petrol Ciaz. If value is what you’re after, cut a cheque for the Zeta.

Competitors

Honda City: The City continues to be the most desirable sedan in this lot. It’s got the looks, the tech and more importantly - that oh-so-illustrous H badge on the grille. It’s fun to drive, and has enough space to shame cars from a segment above. Looking for a big car experience? Dial H for Honda.

Hyundai Verna: Looks suave, is loaded with features you didn’t know of, and most importantly - doesn’t ride like it’s got pogo sticks for wheels. If you can make peace with the limited room at the rear, it’s the best Verna ever!

Volkswagen Vento: It’s aging, but it’s far from being dated. If you’re keen on driving (fast) yourself, the dual-clutch transmission on the Vento will be a more-than-willing partner in crime. It’s got a stiff ride, but the basics of space, practicality and ergonomics have been nailed to the T.

Skoda Rapid: There’s not much to dislike about the Skoda sedan. With the facelift, it looks as premium as ever, and packs in even more tech. If you feel the Vento is a bit out of reach, pick the Rapid. It’s practically the same package delivered with a smaller pinch to the wallet