Launch Report: Suzuki S-Presso

S-PRESSOSUZUKI

Arguably one of biggest reasons for Suzuki’ s success story in 2022, their entry-level S-Presso has just received a few upgrades and now gives consumers even more value for money. Text: Franco TheronImages: Suzuki Auto South Africa

The initial S-Presso model was launched in 2020, shortly before COVID-19, when the economic climate already made it fairly dificult to own a reputable new car under R200k. Forward to 2022 and the economic situation is even more eye-watering. Yet, Suzuki SA has managed to re-launch their SPresso with several upgrades, with the most expensive S-Presso model at R199 900. Suzuki states that the S-Presso has no target market. It is a car to be enjoyed by all ages and all types of individuals. Let’ s cut to the chase. The previous S-Presso model housed a 1-litre fuel-injected engine, with a claimed average fuel consumption of 4.9L / 100km. Thanks to its 27L fuel tank and 750kg weight, it was capable of a 551km range. The new S-Presso model in turn, houses Suzuki’ s new 1.0 litre Dualjet engine, itted with two injectors per cylinder. We irst experienced this engine in the new Celerio model and were astonished by its real-world fuel eficiency of 5.1 litres / 100km. Suzuki claim that this engine, in the new S-Presso, will deliver average consumption of 4.6 litres per 100km. The Automated Manual Transmission models are capable of an even better 4.4L/ 100km. With this, the new S-Presso models also include a Stop / Start system, which results in the engine saving more fuel during standstill.

Is it safe?

So fuel-eficiency gives the S-Presso one out of three marks thus far, and Suzuki ramped up its safety features to add another tick. The newcomer features Electronic Stability Control (ESP), ABS, childproof rear door locks, rear park sensors, two airbags, and Hill Hold Control for the AMT models. Like other Suzukis, this S-Presso uses the HEARTECT platform, which combines lighter yet stronger materials to strengthen the cabin. All S-Presso ’ s are also itted with ISOFIX points.

Is it capable?

Well, yes. It might have the same 49kW and 89Nm as before, but the refreshed S-Presso certainly has more abilities with a ground clearance of 181mm, as well as new 14-inch alloy wheels (on the GL+ and S-Editions).

Each model also comes with a full-sized spare, which is rare in this vehicle category. Apart from the exterior, the new S-Presso (GL+ Edition) also boasts with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen system (with the latest app connections). The fancier S-edition features a large 9” infotainment system, with a high-resolution screen and reverse camera. All models boast with Bluetooth connectivity, central locking, air conditioning, electric (front) windows, a multi-purpose steering wheel and power steering.

And the price?

The S-Presso range consists of ive different models, each sold with a 2-year / 30 000km service plan and a 5-year / 200 000km promotional mechanical warranty. 1.0 GL (5-sp Manual) R162 900 1.0 GL+ (5-sp Manual) R169 000 1.0 GL (5-sp AMT) R176 900 1.0 GL+ (5-sp AMT) R183 900 1.0 S-Edition (5-sp Manual) R185 900 1.0 S-Edition (5-sp AMT) R199 900 Who wants a boring car anyway…

TRACK EXPERIENCES

FROM R 2 299