The Maruti S-Presso has turned a year old. Launched on September 30, 2019, the S-Presso which is essentially an SUV-inspired hatchback conceptualised and designed in India, has garnered over 75,000 sales in the first 12 months since launch. The model has gone on to get a CNG-powered sibling too.

The S-Presso is based on Suzuki's 'Heartect K' platform modified for high GC and using 40% high-tensile steel. The Suzuki Heartect platform also underpins models like the Swift, Dzire and Wagon R. The platform not only brings structural rigidity benefits but it also helps make the car light – the S-Presso weighs just 726-767kg, depending on the variant.

The S-Presso measures 3,565mm in length, 1,520mm in width and 1,564mm in height (the Std and LXi variants are 15mm shorter due to the 13-inch wheels) with a 2,380mm long wheelbase. The ground clearance is set at 180mm and gets larger 165/70 R14 tyres in comparison on the higher-spec variants.

The S-Presso is powered by Maruti Suzuki’s BS VI-compliant 1.0-litre K10B petrol engine that develops 68hp and 90Nm of torque. Gearbox options include a five-speed manual or AMT.

In June 2020, the S-Presso got a CNG variant. When powered by CNG, the S-Presso’s 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine puts out a lower 58hp and 78Nm, compared to the 67hp and 90Nm of torque when run on petrol. A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard with the CNG S-Presso. In terms of mileage, the model is rated at 31.2km/kg. 

How S-Presso sales stack up
As per statistics compiled by Autocar Professional, since launch through till end-August 2020, the S-Presso registered total sales of 69,527 units. With Maruti Suzuki India confirming crossing the 75,000 units milestone, it can be surmised that the next 5,473 units were sold in September 2020.

SALES WATCH
September 2019: 5,006
October 2019: 10,634
November 2019: 11,220
December 2019: 8,394
January 2020: 6,971
February 2020: 9,578
March 2020: 5,159
April 2020: Zero production and sale
May 2020: 489
June 2020: 3,160
July 2020: 3,604 (inc 607 CNG)
August 2020: 5,312 (inc 418 CNG)
September 2020: 5,473
Total: 75,000 units

According to Shashank Srivastava, Executive Director, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki Indi, “Within a short span of a year, Maruti Suzuki S-Presso has carved a strong niche for itself with many segment first features like dynamic centre console with SmartPlay infotainment system, steering mounted audio and voice control etc. In line with the aspirations of young India, S-Presso is exclusively designed to offer a mini-SUV feel with the best of technologies and features.”

He added, “S-Presso buyers have shown 24% higher inclination to accessorise their cars with unique and exciting accessories to match their lifestyle. In fact, the S-Presso witnessed an uptake in positive momentum with an increased buyer interest in the unlock phase.”