Re: Maruti S-Cross : Official Review Hi,
I recently replaced my 12 year old red Swift Vxi with a S-Cross 1.3l Alpha and thought it was an apt time to start writing on team bhp as well. So, while there are already quite a few ownership reviews of S-Cross 1.3l, as a prospective buyer till a few days back, I understand that its always more the merrier!!
To start with just a brief intro – I work with a start-up that does CRM systems for automobile dealers and OEM’s and is based of NCR region. Automobiles has always been a passion for me – products, the processes, technology, design themes etc and team bhp has been invaluable resource over the years (I have been following team bhp since ages, although this is my first post). So here are my two cents on S.Cross – Why S-Cross: For people who love cars and driving, buying a new car is always an emotional decision. Further given the advancements in technology and hyper competitive environment none of the car companies can survive with bad products (companies can still fail with good products – remember Fiat?). So while I preferred S-Cross none of the other cars were bad in any ways. Now, why S-Cross – 11.5 lakh INR on road for top variant (1.3l DDIS motor) and buyback offer of INR 1.8 lakh for a 12 year old Swift Vxi (market price - about 1 lakh) was simply unbeatable (given my preferences – car with decent space, low running cost, well spread service network, good road manners) Why 1.3: I completely agree that 1.6 is a torque monster very few cars can compete on road, but following factors were instrumental in pushing decision in favour of 1.3l –
1 Vitamin M – Had a hard cap of 12 lakh
2 The fact that maximum usage will be in City – NCR
3 Heavy clutch in 1.6 variant (very subjective but for a person migrating from swift petrol, it could have been a big irritant for me) Interiors and built: As has been said a million times before – I think this is the best Maruti I have seen till date (I would of course leave aside Kizashi). The fact that same car does the duty in Europe (now facelifted) is also a factor why this looks so upmarket. Space: I believe S-Cross is probably one the most underrated car on Indian roads today. For that price MSIL is offering a 4.3 mtr car with probably the best interior, huge space, best in class road manners and Pan India service network. Very honestly, other than the external look and design I fail to understand why breeza owners would not look at S-Cross – Given the discounts, they retail at almost the same price. Engine: Enough has been said about the 1.3 ltr ‘national’ engine elsewhere (in 90hp tune). I would say that in first 1000kms of ownership (including a 600 km highway run) I have never found the vehicle to be underpowered. It is not a monster like 1.6ltr, but suffices my requirements. Average: After a 50-50 highway and city usage, I am getting an average of 21-22 kmpl. I am more than satisfied (considering I came from a petrol car that game average of 10-11 in city). Best thing about the car: As has been said a million times before – Handling and road manners. Also the cabin is very well laid out and does feel premium. Things that can be better: Tyres – JK simply don’t do any justice to otherwise a brilliant car.
I have got the first service done at home. Initially intended to replace engine oil as well (OEM specifies oil change only after an year/10k km). However I ditched the idea, will change it in second service (5k kms). Since the first service was just a check up, it was free of cost.
Will keep on updating the post as I accumulate more miles. |