Suzuki are dominating the small car market and now they have turned their attention to the compact SUV segment where they plan to offer increased ground clearance options that suit every budget. The new urban SUV from Suzuki dubbed the S-Presso condenses all the best Suzuki characteristics into a compact and affordable package.
With a choice of five model derivatives and two transmission options, Suzuki is proving that even the entry-level segment can offer a variety of choice.
The S-Presso combines Suzuki’s Heartect platform, with the company’s compact SUV expertise to offer a compact but roomy and well-specified new urban SUV that is truly within everyone’s reach.
Suzuki is widely credited with creating the ultra-compact SUV market segment and the S-Presso further expands this line-up with a pure SUV design, high ground clearance and commanding driving position.
The S-Presso catches the eye with its bold four-slot grille with large S-emblem. The grille is flanked by squared-off halogen headlamps with a distinct differentiation between the integrated indicators and main headlamps.
Below the grille, the lower black bumper is swept up in a trapezoidal shape into the coloured main bumper to create a larger air intake and the visual impression of a high-riding SUV. But this is not just a visual trick, all S-Presso models feature 180mm of ground clearance, thanks in part to 14-inch steel wheels.
The SUV styling continues along the side of the S-Presso with bold fenders and semi squared-off wheel arches over the wheels with trapezoidal full wheel covers. The wheels have been placed at the outer corners of the vehicle to ensure good road holding and to allow the engineers to fit a 2.38m wheelbase into this 3.56m long vehicle.
At the rear, a small, integrated, spoiler is added to the hatch door while the square rear lights with their C-design are located above the shoulder line to strengthen the SUV design theme. A black rear bumper, with a design similar to that of the front bumper, is fitted below the coloured section and features a number plate recess and integrated parking sensors, which are standard across the entire S-Presso range.
Buyers looking for something more exclusive can opt for the S-Edition model that highlights all of the S-Presso’s most prominent SUV features. It features silver highlights in the four-slot grille, silver front and rear skid plates and bold side cladding over the wheel arches and on the lower sections of the doors. The protective side cladding on the doors is further emphasised by a large silver panel insert, which visually connects the front and rear silver skid plates.
Is the S-presso safe?
Under the skin, the latest generation platform utilises precision engineering and high and ultra-high tensile steel to create a platform that is not only light but also rigid which translates into better performance and handling, lower noise, vibration and harshness as well as class-leading safety.
Suzuki’s TECT body shell uses all of the same materials and engineering principles to create a truly safe and rigid shell around the occupants. These design technologies integrate seamlessly and offer crumple zones and channels for dispersing energy inside, front or rear impacts to create a truly safe body shell.
Furthermore, all models in the S-Presso range feature two airbags as standard and are fitted with ABS and EBD.
What is it like inside?
When you climb inside the S-Presso you are immediately greeted by a bold dashboard and large circular centre console that houses a funky digital speedometer and trip computer, the radio or infotainment system and the centrally mounted electric window and hazard switches.
All versions of the S-Presso are well equipped and feature electric windows for the front occupants, rear parking sensors, air conditioning, power steering and a multi-information display which includes information such as distance to empty, trip duration and distance travelled.
GL+ models feature a full-colour infotainment system that offers smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
S-Presso – Power to the people
The S-Presso shares its engine with the much-loved Celerio. This 1.0 litre, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated power plant offers 50kW at 5 500r/min and 90Nm at 3 500r/min, thanks to multi-point fuel injection and four valves per cylinder. This might not sound like much but thanks to the lightweight nature of the S-Presso and well-sorted gearing, it is capable of keeping good momentum on city roads, highways and even on rocky gravel tracks.
The engine has been well proven in the Celerio where it has gained a reputation for being affordable to service and maintain. Recording less than 5.0 litres per 100km on a combined cycle is easily achievable and kind to the driver’s budget.
What is it like to drive?
Under the skin, the S-Presso rides on a combination of McPherson struts in front and torsion beams linked to the rear wheels. This system has proven itself in other Suzuki models and helps to keep the kerb weight to a minimum.
This set-up offers a balanced, well-damped solution that ensures comfort and good traction on all surfaces and at all speeds. The steering is light, the vehicle is nimble and the engine peppy. At this price point, it is class-leading.
Summary
The little S-Presso defies everything that you expect. The engine is frugal yet punchy, the interior is roomy and comfortable and it really does offer the ability to head off the beaten track. Best of all, it can be had for under R140 000 which includes a two-year/30 000km service plan and a five-year/200 000km warranty.
Images: Andre Badenhorst
*This is a promotional post*
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