Maruti Suzuki Celerio

The Reliable Urban Commuter

In the realm of budget-friendly hatchbacks, the Maruti Suzuki Celerio emerges as a contender that aims to balance practicality, technology, and performance. Designed to cater to the demands of modern urban living, the Celerio offers a range of features that make it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable yet well-equipped ride. From its tech-savvy infotainment to its efficient engine options, the Celerio sets out to redefine the driving experience. In this review, we delve into the key attributes of the Celerio, exploring its technological offerings, safety measures, and overall performance. By uncovering the pros and cons of this compact hatchback, we aim to provide a comprehensive insight into why the Maruti Suzuki Celerio stands out among the best budget hatchbacks available today.

Maruti Suzuki Celerio Pros and Cons 

Exterior Design

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio's exterior design strikes a balance between familiarity and innovation. The front fascia boasts a smart appearance, albeit somewhat reminiscent of other Maruti models. Swift-like headlamps grace the front, although they come without projectors. The halogen lamps deliver a good throw, ensuring adequate visibility. Notably, fog lamps make their debut on the Celerio, adding a touch of sophistication and completing the frontal aesthetics. At the rear, the car's curves evoke similarities to the Baleno, lending it a sporty demeanour. The side profile draws parallels to the Alto, maintaining a compact yet functional look. The inclusion of 15-inch black alloys adds a dash of style to the overall design. However, the rear C-pillar appears thick, and the absence of a quarter glass may lead to blind spots during reversing and parking manoeuvres. The well-defined wheel arches contribute to the side profile's appeal, providing a sense of flair to the Celerio's overall design.

Interiors 

Step into the Celerio, and the black dashboard and interior lends a smart and modern touch to the cabin. As expected from a car in its segment, hard plastics are prominent throughout the interior. While the fit and finish are decent, the overall solidity might not be as reassuring. Practicality shines with ample storage options – all four door bins can accommodate 1-litre bottles, and cup holders grace the centre console. For connectivity and convenience, a 12V charging port and USB inputs for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available, with the addition of an aux input. However, rear passengers miss out on dedicated charging options. The Celerio's 313-litre boot capacity stands out, providing ample room for luggage, making it suitable for quick weekend getaways. Worth noting is that the CNG variant sacrifices some boot space. The Celerio's interior successfully marries aesthetics with functionality, making it a sensible choice in its category.

Comfort 

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio prioritises comfort with well-balanced seating, especially suited for extended drives due to its moderately firm cushioning. However, the fixed headrests are a disappointment, representing a compromise for cost-saving measures and lacking adjustability. The rear seats fare well with generous knee and headroom, offering a comfortable environment. Yet, the fixed and non-adjustable headrests persist in the back as well, somewhat detracting from the overall comfort. While the rear seat is mainly suited for two passengers, you can seat three if you really need to. The only shortfall lies in the thigh support, which could have been enhanced for added comfort during longer journeys.

Performance and handling

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio offers a varied performance and handling experience across its lineup. The 1.0-liter engine, producing 63 bhp and 89 Nm of torque, provides adequate power for urban commuting. The option of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT transmission caters to different driving preferences. With an updated Dualjet motor, the Celerio boasts improved low-end power, enhancing city drivability. The engine's smoothness is in line with Maruti Suzuki's reputation, providing a peppy experience. The Celerio claims an impressive mileage of up to 26 km/l. Low-end torque is notable, contributing to responsive city performance. While highway overtaking might pose challenges, the car can maintain comfortable speeds of around 100 km/h. The ride quality is decent, though road bumps are perceptible. Enthusiasts seeking a more engaging drive might consider expanding their budget for the Swift, known for its superior driving dynamics. The AMT performs well at lower speeds but might exhibit sluggishness and delayed responses at higher speeds, impacting its overall agility. The Celerio is also available with a 56 bhp, 82 Nm CNG engine, and will be best suited for urban commutes only, especially due to the CNG tank in the rear reducing luggage capacity. 

Key specifications 

Safety Features

The safety aspect of the Maruti Suzuki Celerio presents a mixed bag of features and concerns. While the inclusion of two airbags, along with ABS and EBD, showcases a commitment to basic safety measures, there are notable shortcomings. The reverse parking sensor aids in manoeuvring, enhancing safety during parking. However, the Celerio's zero-star Global NCAP rating raises concerns about its crashworthiness and overall safety standards. As a result of this rating, it's advisable to avoid highway driving if possible, emphasising the need for caution on faster roads. 

Technology and Infotainment

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio offers a range of tech and infotainment features that cater to different user preferences. The convenience of a push-button start enhances the modern driving experience, while steering-mounted controls provide easy access to various functions without taking your hands off the wheel. The 7-inch touchscreen, complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, offers seamless smartphone integration. However, the absence of a reverse camera might be a downside for parking assistance. The speaker system, though average, serves the day-to-day user well, but audiophiles might consider an upgrade for enhanced sound quality. The absence of automatic climate control for the AC is noticeable. The convenience of four power windows adds a touch of practicality. 

Is the Maruti Suzuki Celerio for you?

With adequate performance for city driving, superb fuel efficiency and the reliability of a Maruti Suzuki, the Celerio is a great choice for those looking for a daily commuter. At over ₹7 lakhs ex-showroom, it may not have all the bells and whistles that some of its rivals possess, but the legendary cost of ownership of Maruti Suzuki is unmatted. The Celerio is also not a great car for highway trips, so keep that in mind when making your purchase.