A review of the facelifted Suzuki S-Presso for sale in 2023

The Suzuki S-Presso, renowned as South Africa’s most budget-friendly car, has undergone a notable facelift, enhancing its appeal through various upgrades. With a fresh engine, revamped infotainment system, and various other enhancements, the S-Presso is making a strong statement in the market. ¹

The S-Presso presents a distinct boxy design that has been a subject of polarized opinions. While some find its chunky and cheeky appearance charming, others view it with an almost comical sentiment. The car’s surprising legroom at the rear, and a roomy boot accommodating around ten shopping bags transform it into a true four-seater for short urban ventures or a weekend escape with two children and luggage in tow. ¹

Despite being constructed on a budget-conscious foundation, Suzuki has prioritized safety and essential features, ensuring that the S-Presso keeps these crucial aspects intact. Though functional, the interior materials are necessary without plush surfaces or synthetic leather. The steering wheel’s inability to adjust is a noticeable trade-off. Yet, the functionality and effectiveness of the interior elements evoke a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of cars from around 15 years ago. ¹

The S-Presso still has the dual front airbags and ABS. The new version of the S-Presso brings enhancements such as electronic stability control, ISOFIX rear seats, alloy wheels, and a more fuel-efficient engine. It undoubtedly reflects the demands of contemporary driving.^1,2

The S-Presso’s interior surprises with its level of equipment that is standard. Across all models, the infotainment system integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto screen mirroring. The GL+ variant boasts a 7-inch screen, while the S-Edition takes it a notch higher with a 9-inch display featuring a reverse camera. The reasonably simplistic seats, though minimally padded, contribute to the car’s practical character. The driver’s seat offers limited adjustments, but overall, the S-Presso provides the essential amenities for comfortable urban commuting. ¹

Although the engine, sourced from the Celerio model, might appear underwhelming on paper, it harmonizes well with the lightweight structure, even with two passengers on board. While Suzuki claims a fuel consumption of 4.5 L/100 km, real-world experience suggests a figure just below 5 L/100 km in mixed driving conditions – a commendable performance. ¹

One unique aspect is the light steering’s behaviour when starting from a standstill. It initially sways slightly before settling into a centred position. This peculiarity quickly becomes familiar. The handling, fitting for an economical city car, offers stability without stirring excitement, except in crosswinds on damp roads. Here, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) plays a crucial role in maintaining control. ¹

The pricing for the S-Presso begins at R166,900 for the S-Presso 1.0 GL MT, followed by the mid-range S-Presso 1.0 GL+ MT at R173,900, and the top-tier S-Presso 1.0 S-Edition MT priced at R189,900. Opting for automated manual transmissions adds R15,000 to each trim level. The Suzuki S-Presso includes a standard two-year/30,000 km Service Plan and a five-year/200,000 km Promotional Warranty. ¹

For those seeking an alternative, the Suzuki Celerio, priced slightly higher by about R10,000, offers a more spacious option with an additional 80 mm width and 30 mm length over the S-Presso. Other options include the Renault Kwid, Suzuki Celerio (or Toyota Vitz), and Toyota Agya.

So, the revamped Suzuki S-Presso brings a compelling package with its updated features and design. While retaining its affordability and practicality, the S-Presso embraces modern advancements without compromising safety and functionality. ¹

This article is about a review of the facelifted Suzuki S-Presso .¹

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