South Africa’s most inexpensive automotive has simply been given a nip-tuck. Here’s what you get for the extremely low worth of R162 900 writes Alex Shahini.
In fact, that worth level is reserved solely for the entry-level S-Presso 1.0 GL however your complete vary nonetheless retains its value-for-money ideas from when it first arrived on our shores simply over two years in the past.
Associated: Pricing and Spec – Updated Suzuki S-Presso
At the beginning with inexpensive vehicles is gasoline financial system. Consumers within the entry-level section are usually most involved with effectivity with regards to the statistical aspect of their buy. The newcomer might have misplaced a kW however boasts improved gasoline consumption from its predecessor. 4,6 L/100 km is achievable from the handbook model whereas the Automated Handbook Transmission (AMT) spinoff manages a claimed 4,4 L/100 km.
Glancing down on the onboard telemetry was not chief on the agenda when traversing alongside roads snaking their means across the southernmost tip of Africa. An uncommon route for press drives occurring within the Mom Metropolis, with launches usually choosing the serene Winelands a stonesthrow out of the CBD though this route did exhibit the small Suzuki in load-shedding suburban visitors and alongside some winding Cape roads. 
Our placid jaunt began in Hout bay, the place the mildly upgraded S-Presso was first unveiled to journalists and even to us, the outside appears virtually similar to its predecessor. Just a few extra bumper garnishings, the elimination of plastic door sills and alloy wheels are chief among the many upgrades whereas Suzuki has up to date the inside with a bit extra tech and borrowed the brand new Dualjet 1.0 K10C engine from the Celerio – that is the way it manages an improved gasoline effectivity with a marginal drop in energy.
Air considerable at sea degree and tackling the single-lane roads forward, the quirky-styled entry-level SUV was faultless and managed to rise up to the velocity restrict with ease. In numbers, the S-Presso boasts a complete output of 49 kW at 5 500 r/min and 89 Nm at 3 500 r/min. Paltry numbers is a good argument, however the hostile of that will be its inconsequential weight. Lower than 800 kg to provide an thought of the feathery stature. And paired with a passenger and a few baggage would put that nearer to 950 kg however not as soon as did the little 1,0-litre 3-cylinder motor detest what was thrown at it – even when tackling grime roads simply conquered by the 181 mm of floor clearance.
Inside, the lineup has additionally been given a minor replace. Chief amongst these are infotainment methods which incorporate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display mirroring. The GL+ will get a 7-inch sized display whereas the S-Version boasts a 9-inch various along with a reverse digicam.
Expectedly, for a model new automotive that prices R162 900 there are compromises the client should make, however none that make it an unattractive deal. The steering is extraordinarily gentle and the column itself is non-adjustable in any respect. For fast pull-aways from perpendicular intersections, the mini SUV tends of requiring the motive force to manually recentre the steering wheel. Neglect this and the S-Presso begins to dart for the pavement or bushy verge adjoining to the highway. 
Construct high quality is as anticipated for a sub R200 000 new car however what stays with the 2023 Suzuki S-Presso is South Africa’s most affordable car and whereas this title alone makes it a lovely providing, so too does the general expertise when behind the wheel.
Suzuki S-Presso Quick Details:
Engine: front-mounted, naturally aspirated, 1,0-litre 3-cylinder
Transmission: five-speed handbook
Energy: 49 kW @ 5 500 r/min
Torque: 89 Nm @ 3 500 r/min
Pushed wheels: Entrance
Gas consumption: 4,6 L/100km (mixed)
Floor clearance: 181 mm
Rivals: Renault Kwid
