Maruti Suzuki’s Dzire has firmly established itself as a household name on Indian roads, consistently delivering on reliability, practicality, and value for money. Introduced over a decade ago, the Dzire’s journey from its initial launch to the latest fourth-generation model showcases an evolution tailored to meet consumer needs and expectations. Its widespread adoption, particularly in the fleet market, was more a consequence of its attributes than a strategic focus. The Dzire’s durable nature and exceptional value turned it into a favourite among fleet operators, often seen racking up hundreds of thousands of kilometres on Indian roads. A quick glance at an odometer in an Ola or Uber Dzire will likely reveal eye-popping mileage, underscoring its robust engineering. A Fresh Take with the Fourth Generation
The newest iteration of the Dzire marks a significant step forward, aiming to transcend its well-known image and carve a niche as a stylish, feature-rich option for a broader audience. One symbolic move by Maruti Suzuki is the exclusion of white from the initial colour lineup. This might seem minor, but in a market where white dominates car sales, it signals a shift in strategy. The message is clear: the new Dzire is designed to appeal to those seeking more than just practicality—it’s now vying for attention as a sophisticated alternative to SUVs.
Bold and Contemporary Design
The first glance at the new Dzire reveals Maruti’s commitment to modern design. The updated front fascia has drawn comparisons to premium car brands, with some calling it a ‘budget Audi.’ Thanks to the reshaped grille reminiscent of German luxury models, the resemblance is meant as a compliment. This element, paired with sleek, swept-back LED headlights, creates a bold and stylish appearance. The tasteful restraint in chrome usage adds to the Dzire’s fresh, refined look, catering to more discerning buyers who appreciate subtle elegance over flashiness.
From the side, the Dzire might appear longer than its predecessor, though its actual dimensions remain the same. This visual trick is achieved through a prominent shoulder line that adds character and elongates the profile. The rear, while simpler, maintains a clean aesthetic that is pleasing, even if it lacks some of the design flair seen in the front and side. Still, the overall design language strikes a balance that will appeal to the majority of buyers looking for a modern, attractive compact sedan.
Step Inside: A Modern Cabin Experience
Maruti Suzuki has clearly aimed for a premium feel within the cabin, especially for those who may not have experienced the latest Swift. The Dzire’s interior features a multi-layered dashboard with quality textures and a dual-tone colour scheme that enhances its premium feel. The flat-bottom steering wheel, inspired by the Swift, adds a sporty touch that drivers will appreciate. It’s an element that provides both visual appeal and functional comfort.
The feature set in the new Dzire is impressive. It includes a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, elevating the connectivity experience. Additionally, Maruti has introduced a range of amenities such as a single-pane electric sunroof, wireless phone charging, cruise control, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, and a notably high-quality reverse camera. The reverse camera’s display is among the sharpest in its segment, setting a new benchmark that even higher-tier vehicles would do well to match. Safety is addressed with six airbags as standard, along with a 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, and rear parking sensors. One notable positive is Maruti’s choice to include physical buttons for basic controls, a welcome change in an era where most manufacturers rely solely on touchscreens for all functions.
Comfort That Impresses
One of the Dzire’s most commendable aspects is its comfort. The seats are thoughtfully designed, offering excellent support that makes long drives pleasant. Both front and rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, enhancing overall comfort. The rear seats offer ample knee room and supportive cushioning, making it suitable for family use and long-distance travel. The boot space is another highlight, offering 378 litres of capacity—more than sufficient for most needs, from airport luggage to weekend getaways.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the new Dzire features a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine, which replaces the outgoing K-Series unit. Producing 81 bhp and 11.4 kgm on petrol and 69 bhp and 10.4 kgm on CNG, this engine delivers on performance and fuel efficiency, both hallmarks of Maruti engineering. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT, with the CNG variant limited to the manual gearbox.
Driving the Dzire, particularly with the manual gearbox, is an enjoyable experience. The transmission is slick and easy to shift, making it well-suited for both city commutes and spirited drives on open roads. During a test drive on Goa’s winding back roads, the manual’s smooth, responsive nature stood out. The AMT version, while inherently less dynamic, has improved significantly, offering smoother gear shifts than its predecessors with minimal jerkiness. This refinement is a welcome upgrade, especially for those who prioritise convenience in heavy traffic.
We didn’t get a full chance to test the fuel economy during our drive in Goa, so stay tuned for a detailed review. However, the 2024 Dzire boasts impressive mileage figures of 22 to 25 kpl for the AMT and manual variants, respectively. These frugal engines seem to be a favorite at Maruti, so much so that they leaped from the K-series engines straight to the new Z-series power units.
The ride quality of the Dzire strikes a fine balance between comfort and stability. The suspension is tuned to handle the varied conditions of Indian roads with ease, absorbing potholes and undulations without unsettling the cabin. Whether on rough patches or smooth highways, the Dzire maintains a composed ride. Even when taken over speed breakers at unexpected speeds, the car holds its ground confidently, showcasing Maruti’s attention to enhancing the driving experience.
A New Era of Safety
Maruti Suzuki’s safety reputation has seen a significant boost with the new Dzire, which has secured a five-star rating from Global NCAP. This achievement is a landmark for Maruti, underscoring its commitment to producing safer vehicles. The use of high-strength steel and the inclusion of six airbags as standard highlight the brand’s shift toward prioritizing safety. This change not only enhances Maruti’s reputation but also reassures potential buyers that safety is no longer an afterthought. Additional safety measures like electronic stability control and a 360-degree camera further solidify the Dzire’s appeal as a comprehensive package.
Final Thoughts: Why the Dzire Stands Out
The fourth-generation Dzire continues Maruti Suzuki’s legacy of delivering exceptional value. This model goes beyond being a practical, budget-friendly option; it now offers modern design, advanced features, and a refined driving experience. Maruti’s thoughtful updates, from its striking exterior and upgraded cabin to its fuel-efficient, smooth powertrain, make the Dzire a standout in the compact sedan segment.
Its commitment to safety, exemplified by the five-star Global NCAP rating, represents a significant evolution for Maruti Suzuki as a brand. The Dzire’s package of comfort, technology, safety, and reliability positions it as a leading choice for anyone seeking a capable, stylish, and well-rounded sedan.
Ultimately, whether for long-distance journeys, city driving, or family outings, the Dzire checks all the boxes. For those looking at an upgrade from a smaller car or an entry-level sedan with all-around value, the new Dzire proves to be an outstanding choice that stays true to its legacy while embracing modern expectations.
