ಮಾರುತಿ ರಿಟ್ಜ್ VDi

Ritz VDi ವಿಮರ್ಶೆ

Maruti Suzuki always believes in introducing admirable cars with striking features at an affordable price range. One of its inventions is the Ritz hatchback series that is available in both petrol and diesel engine options. Their mid level variant from its diesel lineup is named as Maruti Ritz VDI , which is a mix of performance and other elements both inside and out. It has an overall ground clearance of 170mm, kerb weight of 1110 Kgs and a gross weight of 1520 Kgs. From the visual perspective, it looks good with a black grille, full wheel covers, smart bumpers and much more. However, its interior also gets decent features like seats and doors wearing pleasant fabric upholstery, floor mats (front and rear), a well designed dashboard and an instrument cluster with a several notifications. This trim is blessed with several noticeable comfy aspects, including an AC unit with heater, front and rear power windows. Safety is also taken care of as it comprises of an engine immobilizer, seat belts and central locking system. McPherson Struts are fitted to its front axle, while torsion beam is available at the rear. It is powered by a 1248cc diesel engine, this vehicle can be accelerated from 0 to 100 Kmph in 14 seconds and then, can touch a maximum speed of 163 Kmph. It has an overall fuel tank capacity of 43 litres. This car is competing against the likes of Hyundai Grand i10, Honda Brio, Toyota Etios Liva, Ford Figo and others in this segment. This hatch has a basic warranty for a limited period of time and distance, but the same can further be increased at an additional cost.

Exteriors:

It has a beautiful front fascia with high intensity headlights, horizontally slatted grille and a wide air dam flanked by a pair of fog lamps on its body colored bumper. The windscreen is broad and equipped with a pair of intermittent wipers and a washer as well. Its rear end is designed with a sporty boot lid, vertical tail lamps, spoiler and fog lamps. The sides have pull type door handles and well curved external rear view mirrors, both of which are also in body shade. Moreover, it has black B-pillars, internally adjustable manual outside rear view mirrors and a set of 14 inch steel wheels covered with 165/80 R14 sized tubeless radials. Being a hatchback, this vehicle has a minimum turning radius of 4.7 meters and a roomy wheelbase of 2360mm.

Interiors:

There are modest features inside, comprising of a neatly placed three spoke steering wheel with Suzuki emblem in the center, cup holder in console, front door trim pocket and storage space behind its front seats. Besides these, it has a tray under co-driver seat, 3 foldable grip assists, anti glare internal rear view mirror, power outlet to offer charging for smaller gadgets, ashtray, vanity mirror for the passenger side sunvisor, front and rear seat headrests. Its door trims and seats have fabric upholstery. There are reminders for driver seat belt, light-off as well as for door ajar. It also has a tachometer and low fuel warning in the instrument panel. Moreover, there is a spare wheel fitted beneath its luggage compartment.

Engine and Performance:

This trim includes a 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine, which churns out a maximum power of 73.94bhp at 4000rpm along with a peak torque of 190Nm at 2000rpm. This mill has a DOHC (double overhead camshaft) valve configuration that incorporates four cylinders. Apart from this, it is integrated with a 5-speed manual transmission. A common rail direct injection fuel supply system helps in generating 18.6 Kmpl within the city.

Braking and Handling:

Its front wheels are paired to ventilated discs and rear ones have drum brakes. Besides this, there is a torsion beam at its rear end, while a pair of McPherson struts are affixed to its front suspension. Both of these axles have coil springs for added comfort.

Comfort Features:

This mid level trim has a power steering, double horn, front as well as rear power windows and an air conditioner unit. This is a small family car, which can take in 5 passengers very easily. Its boot compartment is good enough to take in 236-litres of luggage and this can further be increased by folding its rear seat.

Safety Features:

This car is reliable enough to provide a safe journey for the occupants as it includes seat belts, anti-theft device, engine immobilizer system and a centrally mounted fuel tank. Apart from these. It is equipped with a pair of halogen headlights, front and rear impact beams, child safety rear door locks and seats with adjusting facility.

Pros:

1. Engine performance is time-tested.

2. Safety features are good enough.

Cons:

1. Diesel engine NVH levels can be reduced.

2. Interiors can be made better.