SX4 VXi - it has everything you need. Review on Maruti Suzuki SX4

I got my SX4 VXi(Metallic Azure Grey) from Spectra Motors, Borivali, Mumbai a week ago and clocked 550 kms so far.  I had almost set my mind on the Hyundai Getz Prime(no comparison to SX4!) but had no hesitation in increasing my budget by 1.5 lacs when I saw Maruti's new launch in a newspaper picture.  Till then, I did not even consider going in for a sedan, since even Honda City ZX EXI was a bit out of my reach.

SX4 changed my thinking completely - I spent hours comparing features, specs, prices with other models and going through reviews on Mouthshut.com and other websites. I was even more convinced about my decision when I visited a nearby showroom and saw an SX4 for the first time! The car's size & styling gives it an imperious, yet sporty look. One that not only commands respect from other drivers, but also sends female hearts fluttering.

Well, I got the delivery of my car within 3 weeksfrom the date of booking. Of course, it took a lot of phone calls but to his credit, the salesman at Spectra Motors was also very proactive and courteous.

It's tough to write a review about the SX4 since most of its pros and cons have already been discussed threadbare on this forum. However, it looks like I'm the first person to write about the VXi, as everyone else seems to have purchased a ZXi.

I don’t see why SX4 VXi is considered a poor cousin of the ZXi. The VXi has amazing features that are comparable to the top-most versions of most other car models. It is a superb package of good looks, features, reliability and performance at the most mind-blowingly reasonable price.  The ZXi version is more popular probably because it is seen as a better option by those who would have otherwise opted for top-end versions of City ZX, Fiesta, Aveo, etc. which cost at least 50K more than the ZXi.

I added accessories worth approx. 40, 000, including music system+ speakers, remote locking, reverse-parking sensor, leather seat covers, floor mats, side & bumper protection strips(body-coloured), sun-control film and anti-rust coating.

Coming back to my review of my VXi, here are my observations:

*Fuel efficiency:

*Dealer promised 10-11 in city roads – currently getting about 7 kmpl with A/C, but not too worried about it as all new cars have low mileage initially. Still a couple of weeks to go for the first service, after which it is expected to improve.  The instruction manual says that mileage will stabilize after the first 3000 kms. My driving is mostly on the highway and I don’t often travel during peak hour traffic, so I expect to get about 12 kmpl, hopefully.

*Interiors & comfort:

I like the two-tone fabric insert in the door panels and the dashboard looks neatly arranged. There is a gap below the deck compartment which looks a bit out of place. The glove box has a triangular shape and can’t accommodate too many things in it.(Can't complain, though - there is a 505-litre boot!) Seats are very comfortable for 4 passengers but I have to say it, like millions of others already have: “The rear center seat is a pain in the a due to the protruding armrest and Maruti needs to fix it soon”. There – I always wanted to say that!

*Driving pleasure:

*Thanks to the high ground clearance and the efficient shock absorbers, the drive is very stable even on rough roads. Power steering is smooth but not as effortless and light as the City ZX. Packs a punch while accelerating in 2nd and 3rd gears, but rather disappointing on 5th gear while going up a gentle incline. I expected more power from a 102 bhp engine. On flat roads, it gives other cars an inferiority complex and zooms clear of traffic in seconds. I’ve had to struggle to restrain myself from going above 80 kmph during the run-in period. Can’t wait to see the needle touch the 140 mark!

*Features:

*Engine immobilizer(iCats) gives peace of mind to some extent, but Autocop is a necessity in Mumbai. Has Illumination Control on the speedometer display and 2 trip meters. I like the portable ashtray too – quite cute – not sure if other cars have this. It has some very thoughtful features for forgetful people like me – a beeper that sounds if the key is left in the ignition, or if the lights are left on after parking the car. Here’s something neat I found out only after getting the car: the windshield wipers not only have the usual Intermittent, Low and High settings, but also you can change the speed of movement as you wish. The huge square rear-view mirrors on the sides are a big advantage! One drawback is that Maruti has not made any provision for rear speakers behind the back seat – you need to cut through metal to install the rear speakers.

All in all, a great car to own and one that attracts a lot of stares and jealous glances.