ಮಾರುತಿ ಸ್ವಿಫ್ಟ್ 2014-2021 ಎಲ್‌ಎಕ್ಸೈ Option

MSIL has officially launched the refurbished version of its premium hatchback, Swift in the car bazaar. It has undergone a minor overhaul in terms of features, looks and technical specifications. The car maker has retained all its variants, while adding a new petrol trim to the lineup. It comes after the base variant and is christened as Maruti Swift LXI Option . It is powered by a refined 1.2-litre K Series petrol engine, which is now capable of giving away a peak mileage of 20.4 Kmpl. As far as its exteriors are concerned, it gets a refurbished radiator grille along with a sporty new bumper, which enhances its elegance. Its interiors are also updated with new seating upholstery, which is complimented by silver inserts. This entry level trim is also has front power windows including driver's side window with auto up and down function. Furthermore, it is also equipped with central locking system and keyless entry, which further enhances the convenience. It is offered with three new exterior color options that are Granite Grey, Mysterious Violet and Fire Red. It is available with a standard warranty of 40000 kilometers or 24-months, which can be increased to 3-years or 60000 kilometers at an additional cost.

Exteriors:

This hatchback gets a set of modified cosmetics, which further enhances its trendy look. To start with the front facade, its bumper gets a sporty new design with bigger air dam and black colored fog lamp bezel. Just above this, the radiator grille is also refurbished with a honeycomb mesh, which has matt-black finish. Surrounding this is the large headlight cluster featuring halogen lamps and turn indicators, which dazzles the front fascia. The overall new look of its front facade is emphasized by the chrome plated company's logo that is embedded on to the grille . The side profile has well carved wheel arches, which are fitted with a set of steel wheels. These rims are now equipped modified wheel covers, which gives a refining look to the side facet. This trim also has trendy features like black door handles and ORVM caps, while the A and B pillars are in body color. The rear profile too remains to be the same with body colored bumper, concave windscreen and V shaped boot lid. It also has a radiant taillight cluster that is equipped with powerful brake lamps and turn indicators.

Interiors:

This Maruti Swift LXI Option trim is bestowed with a refined internal cabin owing to its black color scheme. Furthermore, it is also furnished with wide seats, which are now covered with new fabric upholstery. In addition to these, its door handles along with dashboard and steering wheel have been decorated with silver inserts , which gives a magnificent look to the cabin. On the other hand, its rear cabin is now fitted with split folding bench seat, which helps to increase its luggage storage capacity. Furthermore, it also has adjustable rear headrests, which adds to the comfort. There is a lot of space available in the cabin, which can house seating for at least five passengers. Its dashboard has a stylish instrument cluster that provides informatics like low fuel warning lamp, fuel consumption display, odometer and a digital clock.

Engine and Performance:

It comes fitted with a 1.2-litre, K-series petrol engine that has a multipoint fuel injection supply system. It has four cylinders that are integrated with 16 valves. It has the total displacement capacity of 1197cc and is based on a double overhead camshaft valve configuration. The company claims that it can return a maximum fuel economy of 20.4 Kmpl, which is quite good. The maximum power generated by this motor is 83.1bhp at 6000rpm, while it yields a peak torque output of 115Nm at 4000rpm. This hatch can breach the speed barrier of 100 Kmph in nearly 14 seconds and achieves a top speed that ranges between 150 to 155 Kmph. This petrol mill is paired with an efficient five speed manual transmission gear box, which is compliant with BSIV emission norms.

Braking and Handling:

The front wheels are equipped with a set of ventilated disc brakes, while there are strong drum brakes fitted to the rear ones . The suspension system is very efficient, which helps in maintaining its stability while dealing with all jerks caused on uneven roads. This comprises of a McPherson strut for the front and torsion beam to the rear. Its handling is made easier with the help of a rack and pinion based electric power assisted steering system. It has tilt adjustment function and supports a minimum turning radius of 4.8 meters.

Comfort Features:

The manufacturer has packed this trim with a few comfort aspects that gives a pleasurable driving experience. The rear seat has 60:40 split folding facility, which helps in making space for more luggage. It has front power operated windows that have auto down function on the driver's side . There is an accessory socket available, which is useful for charging mobile phones and other electronic devices. It is bestowed with a manual air conditioning unit that cools the cabin in no time. The stylish instrument panel displays a few notifications, which makes it quite convenient for the driver. Apart from these, it includes a lane change indicator, remote fuel lid and back door opener, keyless entry, retractable cup holder for passengers and a tilt adjustable steering column.

Safety Features:

In order to enhance the security of its passengers, this Maruti Swift LXI Option trim is incorporated with several important protective aspects. It has front and rear seat head restraints, dual horn, a security alarm system, intelligent computerized anti-theft system and a central locking system . In addition to these, it includes side door impact protection beams, high mount stop lamp, child safety locks for rear doors, three point (ELR) emergency locking retractor seat belts along with middle lap belt. Meanwhile, the notifications like driver seat belt reminder, door closure warning lamp and low fuel consumption display on instrument panel keeps the driver alert.

Pros:

1. Its large wheelbase is an advantage.

2. Its electric power steering wheel makes handling convenient.

Cons:

1. Its interior aspects can be further improved.

2. A few more safety features can be added.