ಮಾರುತಿ ಸ್ವಿಫ್ಟ್ Dzire 2014-2017 ಎಲ್‌ಎಕ್ಸೈ Optional-O

In a bid to spur up the sales of Swift Dzire, Maruti Suzuki India Limited has silently introduced its facelifted version in the country's car bazaar. The manufacturer has not just made changes to its cosmetics and features, but also made modifications to its engine specifications, which makes it the most fuel efficient in its class. Now, there are five petrol and three diesel trims available in this series among which, the Maruti Swift Dzire LXI Optio n is the mid range petrol variant. It is powered by a re-tuned 1.2-litre engine that can produce a peak mileage of 20.85 Kmpl. This comes as a result of reduction in its power production and improvement in its torque output. In terms of cosmetic updates, this vehicle has a modified front facade featuring a new radiator grille that has a pronounced air intake section. At the same time, both its front and rear bumpers have been redesigned wherein, the front one gets modified fog lamp consoles. The insides of this vehicle remains entirely the same like its predecessor, but the improvement in quality of its fabric enhances its plushness. On the other hand, this latest trim gets a few essential protective aspects like security alarm system and speed sensitive automatic door locks. This compact sedan will now lock horns with the likes of Hyundai Xcent, Honda Amaze and Tata Zest in the country's automobile market.

Exteriors:

The external appearance of this current generation vehicle looks quite decent owing to its refined cosmetics. However, its side and rear facets received not much of updates apart from the wheel covers and rear bumper. Its tailgate looks massive and it is decorated with a chrome plated strip along with a company's badge. The taillight cluster has an edgy design and is powered by brake lights along with turn indicators. Coming to its side facet, this vehicle gets black colored ORVMs and door handles, wherein its A and B pillars are garnished in body color. Major update has been given to its front facade with a redesigned radiator grille with bigger air intake section. Its has a perforated mesh, which is further decorated with a black colored bar affixed on it. The front bumper is also modified with expressive new design, wherein its fog lamp console gets a new shape. The overall new look of this vehicle is complimented by the chrome plated company's insignia, which is positioned on the grille. On the other hand, this vehicle is now available with seven exterior paint options among which, Magma Grey, Alp Blue, Sangria Red and Cave Black are newly introduced color shades.

Interiors:

Like mentioned above, the manufacturer has made no changes to the interiors, apart from improving the quality of its fabric upholstery. Its entire cabin is done up with an eye-soothing dual tone color scheme, which is further complimented by wood accents given on its dashboard. Its center fascia has a flawless design and is housed with features like an AC unit along with a provision to incorporate a music system. Just beside this, there is a small instrument cluster that has two attractive analogue meters with conventional dials. It has functions including a speedometer, driver's seatbelt warning lamp, light-on buzzer and door closure warning lamp. Furthermore, it also houses a multi-functional digital display that provides information related to the time, outside temperature, odometer and fuel consumption. There is a lot of space available inside that can house a minimum of five passengers comfortably. This compact sedan also has a boot volume of 310-litres, which can be extended further by folding the rear bench seat.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is fitted with a modified 1.2-litre K-Series VVT petrol engine, whose power output has been reduced. However, it comprises of same four cylinders and 16-valves based on DOHC valve configuration, which displaces 1197cc. This naturally aspirated motor can now pump out a power of 83.14bhp at 6000rpm along with a hammering torque of 115Nm at 4000rpm. The automaker has paired this motor to a five speed manual transmission gearbox, which enables it to break the 100 Kmph mark from a standstill in 12 to 13 seconds. Its power plant is integrated with a MPFI fuel supply system, which is helpful for delivering segment's best mileage figures of 20.85Kmpl.

Braking and Handling:

In terms of braking, this compact sedan is blessed with a highly efficient braking mechanism that works perfectly in all weather conditions. It gets ventilated discs on its front wheels and drum brakes at its rear, which can be fitted with ABS and EBD. This trim is also integrated with an electric power assisted steering system, which is based on a rack and pinion mechanism. It provides excellent response to the driver by supporting a minimum turning radius of just 4.8 meters. This vehicle sits on a sturdy chassis, whose front and rear axles are fitted with McPherson strut and torsion beam suspension respectively. This mechanism is capable enough to deal with the shocks caused on roads.

Comfort Features:

This Maruti Swift Dzire LXI Option trim is positioned above the base variant by equipping it with a few standard comfort features. It also gets a manual operated air conditioning system along with an instrument cluster featuring all the necessary functions in it. The list of other features include dual horn, tilt adjustable power steering system, front seats with adjustable head restraints, antenna, electrically operated windows, front door panels with cloth accents, central door locking function, remote keyless entry and back door opener. Beside these, this trim also gets internally adjustable outside mirrors, front door trim pockets, a large glove box, assist grips, dual front sun visors, remote fuel lid opener and intermittent front wipers with two-speed setting.

Safety Features:

This compact sedan has a sturdy body structure made with high tensile steel, which includes crumple zones and impact protection beams. It can safeguard the passengers from injuries by absorbing the impact caused in case of an accident. It is also blessed with standard protective aspects like three point seat belts, rear door child locks, a security alarm system, speed sensitive automatic door lock and an engine immobilizer.

Pros:

1. Improved fuel economy is its biggest advantage.

2. Decent cabin space with comfortable seating arrangement.

Cons:

1. There is no chrome treatment to the radiator grille.

2. Comfort and safety features needs to improve.