Maruti has just launched the all-new Swift Dzire sedan in India. Prices start from Rs 4.79 lakh for the base LXi petrol version, rising to Rs 7.09 lakh for the top-of-the-range ZDi diesel.
The new Maruti Dzire is under 4 metres long, and this means that it qualifies for an excise cut. This is one of the reasons why Maruti has been able to price the new car so competitively. The prices are as follows:
New Dzire prices: Old Dzire prices:
LXi – Rs 4.79 lakh LXi – Rs 4.94 lakh
VXi – Rs 5.32 lakh VXi – Rs 5.47 lakh
VXi AT – Rs 6.54 lakh NA
ZXi – Rs 6.19 lakh ZXi – Rs 6.39 lakh
LDi – Rs 5.80 lakh LDi – Rs 5.95 lakh
VDi – Rs 6.31 lakh VDi – Rs 6.46 lakh
ZDi – Rs 7.09 lakh ZDi – Rs 7.30 lakh
The new Dzire is based on the new Swift platform, which means it also benefits from the 40 mm increase in wheelbase, which translates into more interior room. Under the skin, it bears the same technical components, including chassis and drive train as the new Swift.
The new Dzire has been styled a little differently from the Swift though, to differentiate the two cars. The changes include a new grille with wider horizontal slats, and a slightly bigger air intake on the lower front bumper. The two cars are very similar up to the B-pillar. Beyond that, Maruti has has altered the C-pillar to incorporate the new rear end.
The short overall length means the Swift appears more like a notchback than a conventional three-box saloon, but it is an attractive looking car from the rear as well unlike the earlier Dzire which appeared a tad too slab-sided and bulky. The stylised tail lights and neat boot lid have a hint of the Kizashi, which is a good thing. Boot space, which is 316 litres, is adequate for a weekend getaway, but not all that much more than some premium hatchbacks.
