SX4 First Impressions!. Review on Maruti Suzuki SX4

The first thought that comes to my mind about the SX4 is that it is Value for Money. Which other automobile manufacturer provides you with so many features for such a reasonable price?

It looks amazing! It is huge and imposing(therefore, appealing to the male ego. hehe). The'jacked up from the rear' look is really cool. Compared to the SX4, cars like the City ZX, Fiesta, Verna etc. look like toys imported from China!

I have booked the SX4 VXi(could not book the ZXi because of budget constraints). I have yet to get delivery of my car(another 3 weeks of waiting to go).

My first impressions from a test drive of the SX4 ZXi model are as follows:

Engine, Acceleration: The engine was more than silent, with just a mute growl discernible from under the hood. As regards acceleration, it is just a wee bit slow to pick up in the 1st and 2nd gears. However, once you have crossed the 30km mark on the speedo, it just shoots off like a gun. I am yet to test the car in speeds of 80km and above(could not do so on the test car).

Interiors, Comfort: Interiors are extremely pleasing. All switches, knobs etc. are well-placed and within reach. I particularly like the electronic OVRMs. Also needing mention is the integrated Stereo System. It is spread over the center console, and has large dials and switches for easy access. Automatic climate control is great(although my VXi will not have it). The seats are large and comfortable. The one big thing I hate about the interiors is the raised central hump on the back row. I sat on it and it felt as if someone was torturing me!

Features: ABS, EBD, Dual Airbags, Climate Control, 16" alloys. Do I need to say more?Unfortunately, the VXi does not have any of these features. However, a lot of features are common in both the models like: tilt-steering, integrated stereo system, power windows, power steering, central locking, electronic OVRMs, height-adjustable seat belts, height-adjustable head rests, rear seat center arm-rest, beige interiors, rear defogger, Information Display(Time/Clock), headlight leveler, tubeless tyres, printed antenna etc. The boot is also huge. You need to see it to believe it.

Other Miscellaneous Things: The car feels rock solid. Somehow, you feel that the car will last you for a millenium. Maruti-Suzuki tends to bring out that feeling in me. However, that's my personal opinion.

Reviews aside, please take test-drives before deciding on buying a particular car brand-model. In the end, it is you who is going the drive the car(or maybe your chauffeur). So trust your intuition and judgement more than anything else!

PS: As dealers, Vitesse is just about OK.

UPDATE: My cousin just got delivery of his SX VXi. Confirmed that even VXi now comes with the integrated stereo along with 4 speakers(all on the 4 doors), and 2 tweeters. The sound quality is very good(though not that good with FM radio).

I was planning to install additional speakers behind the rear-seat. However, I am happy with the company fitted speakers. As it is, to install rear speakers, you need to cut through the rear parcel tray.

Took my cousin's car for a spin. Again got bowled over by the pick-up. Suspension is really good. I just love this car! Waiting for my car to arrive!

Testing.