Maruti Ciaz 2014-2017 VDi

Ciaz 2014-2017 VDi Review

India's largest passenger car manufacturer MSIL has finally launched their most awaited sedan, Maruti Ciaz in the Indian automobile market. This latest sedan is introduced in numerous trim levels with both petrol and diesel engine options. Among those, Maruti Ciaz VDI is the entry level diesel trim, which is powered by a 1.3-litre DDiS engine. It is capable of producing a maximum power of 88.5bhp along with a commanding torque output of 200Nm. Surprisingly, this base variant is bestowed with projector headlamps, an integrated music system and electrically adjustable outside mirrors, which makes it a tough contender in the sedan segment. It has an aerodynamic body structure, which is fitted with stylish features like body colored bumpers, door handles and black B pillars. The interiors are done up with a dual tone beige and black color scheme, which is further emphasized by faux-wood inserts on dashboard. With a length of 4490mm and a width of 1730mm, this sedan is the longest and widest in its segment. The car maker has placed this sedan in the C segment, where it will lock horns with the likes of Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Nissan Sunny and Ford Fiesta. It is available with a standard warranty of 2-years or 40,000 kilometers (whichever is earlier).

Exteriors:

This sedan has a breathtaking external appearance owing to its aerodynamic body structure and elegantly designed cosmetics. Its front facade is fitted with a large headlight cluster that is equipped with projector headlamps and turn indicators. In the center, its radiator grille is fitted with chrome plated slats, which are further embedded with company's logo. The body colored front bumper has a wide air dam and has a provision for integrating fog lamps. The side profile looks very elegant owing to its expressive lines and neatly carved wheel arches. Its door handles and the ORVM caps are treated in body color, while the window frames and B pillars are done up in black. This entry level trim is fitted with a set of conventional 15-inch steel wheels, which are covered with high performance tubeless radial tyres. Its rear profile is fitted with a radiant taillight cluster, which houses powerful brake light, turn indicator and courtesy lamp. The tailgate has an integrated spoiler and is decorated with a lot of chrome inserts. Like the front bumper, its rear one too has a rugged structure and houses reflector console with black finish. This sedan is available in seven exterior paint options including Fire Brick Red, Clear Beige, Chocolate Brown, Glistening Grey, Silky Silver, Midnight Black and Pearl Metallic Arctic White.

Interiors:

This Maruti Ciaz VDI variant has a dual tone interior cabin, which is done up with beige and black color scheme. Furthermore, it gets faux-wood inserts on its dashboard and door panels, which gives a plush appeal to the cabin. The main highlight of the interiors is its exceptional leg and shoulder space as it has a long wheelbase of 2650mm. The seats are ergonomically designed featuring adjustable head restraints and have been covered with good quality fabric upholstery. Its dual tone dashboard is fitted with a few equipments like an AC unit, a music system and a sophisticated instrument panel. It also has a large glove box unit and ergonomically positioned control switches, which are easy to reach. There are number of utility features given inside the cabin like cup holders, storage pockets, dual front sun visors with passenger side vanity mirror and folding rear seat back.

Engine and Performance:

Powering this trim is the 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine that has common rail fuel injection technology. It is based on a double overhead camshaft valve configuration with 4-cylinders and 16-valves, which displaces 1248cc. It is also integrated with a turbocharger, which helps it to pump out a maximum power of 88.5bhp at 4000rpm in combination with a commanding torque output of 200Nm at just 1750rpm. This engine is skilfully mated with a five speed manual transmission gearbox, which delivers the torque output to its front wheels. The car maker claims that this diesel sedan can deliver a maximum mileage of 26.21 Kmpl, which is remarkable.

Braking and Handling:

The car maker has equipped its front axle with a robust McPherson strut system and paired its rear axle with torsion beam system. This sedan is also integrated with a highly responsive power assisted steering system, which offers superior response and reduces the efforts required by its driver. Its front wheels are fitted with ventilated discs and the rear ones are paired with high performance drum brakes, which delivers excellent performance.

Comfort Features:

This Maruti Ciaz VDI is integrated with a tilt adjustable power steering, adjustable headrests, power windows with one touch operation and electrically adjustable outside mirrors. In addition to these, it also has aspects like cup holders, glove box, storage pockets, dual front sun visors and front center armrest with utility box. Furthermore, it also has rear demister, premium fabric upholstery, keyless entry, electric trunk opening, remote pocket, front and rear door bottle holders and height adjustable front seat belts. The car maker has equipped its dashboard with a manual AC unit including rear air vents, which keeps the ambiance pleasant. In addition to this, it is also integrated with a proficient music system including a CD player along with 4-speakers, 2-tweeters and connectivity port for USB devices.

Safety Features:

Although, it is the entry level variant, it is bestowed with some of the important safety features, which safeguards the vehicle and its occupants. It has aspects like side impact protection beams, child safety door locks, door ajar warning, driver's seatbelt notification, high mount third brake light, inside rear view mirror with manual dimming, powerful projector headlamps and three point seatbelts. It is also integrated with an engine immobilizer and anti-theft security system, which prevents any unauthorized entry into the vehicle.

Pros:

1. Interior space and design is quite good.

2. Engine performance and fuel economy is remarkable.

Cons:

1. Alloy wheels can be offered as standard.

2. Lack of ABS with EBD is a disadvantage.