Maruti Suzuki launched the SX4 a couple of years back and everyone had high expectations from them. People thought the SX4 would out number the Honda City and it did happen in the initial stage but the hype reduced and the SX4 sales reduced. What Maruti Suzuki needed was an oil burner and what better engine than the 1.3 liter Multijet diesel motor with VGT from Fiat. It has been a long time coming and finally it is almost here. The new Maruti is here to challenge the Fiat Linea, Honda City, Volkswagen Vento and Honda City.
The first drive in the diesel Maruti sedan is absolutely positive. The engine idle noise is slightly higher than the Fiat Linea but the diesel Maruti is faster thanks to being light by almost 70kgs. The 90bhp, 1.3L motor is turbocharged and has the same properties of all diesel cars. Quick once the turbo spools up and huge turbo lag when below 2000RPM. The SX4 diesel even with the 1248cc engine is quick and never feels underpowered. That is the beauty of the Fiat Multijet motor.
Other than the Fiat 1.3L motor in the diesel's hood, everything else remains the same. The SX4 diesel looks the same as its petrol siblings and the ZDi features the same features such as Dual SRS Airbags, ABS, EBD, Audio Controls on steering wheels, 16 inch alloys and beige interiors.
The SX4 diesel will make for an excellent car for the diesel loving Indians, and will be launched on 20th February. It will be priced at Rs. 70,000/- more than the petrol SX4.