Sept 9, 2014: Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is making its entry to the competitive luxury sedan war segment competing with the likes of Honda City and Hyundai Verna. This new model is going to replace the SX4 version.
Exteriors
At a glance, the Ciaz appears to feature huge bumpers and swept back headlamp. It is evident to have longer wheelbase than that of SX4 though it is reminiscent to it with a big ‘S’ badge on the front grille. The headlamps appear bigger and this is one factor that will definitely grab the attention of onlookers. There are stylish 16-inch alloy wheels on the top tier mode, Ciaz Z+.
Coming around to the rear, this vehicle will remind you of the recent iteration of Honda City with similar tail lamps and wedge shaped boot lid with chrome lining above the number plate.
Interiors
The glam factor of the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz lies in the dual tone interiors. The interiors are spacious and there are a lot of gadgets to play with from simple features like a rear armrest in the middle of the back seat to A/C vents for the passengers and a 12V socket.
The door panel on the driver side has an array of buttons – one for adjusting the side view mirrors electronically and the others for central locking and window controls. The door handle has a Chrome finish for the top shelf Z+ variant. There is a three spoke steering with mounted controls and one of them is for hand-free Bluetooth connectivity that allows users to receive calls even while driving.
There is a couple of huge circular analog dials in the instrument cluster – speedometer and RPM meter respectively. There is also a circular temperature gauge and a fuel level indicator with a small digital information display. There are air vents with chrome surrounds in the dash and a wooden finished panel that look appealing. The Z+ variant has a centre console with ‘SmartPlay’ in-car infotainment system that includes radio, media format via USB, Aux-in, iPod, SD card, navigation, voice recognition, integrated rear view camera and smart phone connectivity.
The Ciaz also has a climate control system with two round knobs for adjusting temperature and fan speed respectively. Beneath this is a plastic cover including cup holders, small storage bay and Aux-in & USB port. There is a glove box to house all vital car documents and sunglass holder adding appeal to the interiors. The arm rests have leather upholstery on board with a cell phone pocket stitched within the inside of the co-passenger and driver seat above the front centre arm rest.
Ciaz offers excellent cabin space as it is designed to provide comfortable leg room even for a six foot tall individual even when the front seat is pulled completely back. The rear A/C vent and sunscreen curtain add to the elegance of the interiors.
Variants
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz comes in two variants – 1.4 lire petrol engine with 91 bhp power output and 130 Nm torque and a 1.3 litre diesel engine with 89 bhp power output and 200 Nm torque. Both these variants have 5 speed manual transmissions, whereas the petrol variant includes a 4 speed automatic gearbox. In terms of fuel efficiency, the petrol variant provides a mileage of 20.73 kmpl, whereas the diesel variant renders an impressive 26.21 kmpl.
Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz has an attractive exterior design with appealing interiors, extended wheel base, good comfort levels and a slew of the essential features. It is highly recommended for those users who prefer a decent performance and reliability. The vehicle takes advantage of its design and looks, interior space and comfort.
