Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL+ Test Review

The S-Presso was launched about 2 years ago in SA as an interesting contender at the budget end of the new car market.
It's definitely a small A- segment hatch but adds a few crossover/SUV styling cues to the mix as well. From the very distinctive front grille to body cladding, the tall and narrow body style make a statement.
Powered by the familiar Suzuki 1L 3 cylinder motor matched to a very light and easy 5 speed manual transmission driving through the front wheels. Figures of 50kW and 90Nm may not sound like much but Suzuki are the masters of lightweight construction that endows the car with peppy performance. Freeway cruising is handled with ease albeit with the little motor screaming somewhat and not too much in reserve for overtaking. A somewhat unfair comment because this really is a city car and best suited to that usage.
A freeway cruise showed 4.4L/100km and the overall consumption for the week was exactly 5l/100km. Yet again, Suzuki prove their economy credentials.
A 7 inch infotainment screen with Android Auto, Apple Carplay, and even a reverse camera are the features that matter to buyers in this segment. The GL+ spec has it all. Safety is taken care of with 2 airbags and ABS braking. To the best of my knowledge the S-Presso in this specification has not undergone NCAP testing. An Indian test involved a car without airbags or ABS. '
Currently priced at R157 900 as tested, this has to be a very strong contender for any buyer looking for a budget vehicle. A 2 year/ 30 000km service plan and 5 year/ 200 000km warranty are included.
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[@hannesvanstaden3705]

Thank you for the good and honest review. I have to add just two little quirks of this car: Due to its tall and narrow stance and light weight, it hates wind. Here in Port Elizabeth, the car can be quite a handful on windy days. The other quirk is the sterring wheel that is not self-centering, which, combined with the bucking in the wind, makes lane-keeping quite interesting. I bought the S Edition 18 months ago, and I loved every kilometer I drove in it. The fuel consumption is simply phenomenal. PE to East London via the R72 coastal road, coming back and then refuelling at Port Alfred, using about 23l of fuel. I averaged about 3.96l/100km on the round trip. It is a lovely little car with loads of space for its size, and fantastic value for money.

[@MotorMatters]

Thanks for the comments. The wind effect is an affliction that affects many small and lighter cars. My first car was a 1973 VW Beetle the rear engine made the front even lighter. It was a handful in Cape Towns famous South-Easter wind

[@nooranikhan3146]

Thanks a lot for taking your time ,effort and strength to review a budget car

[@afriquelesud]

A Cape Town dealer offers Suzuki and a few other brands with a FREE 10 year one million km warranty. I think I'll go pick up an S-Edition.

[@davidrichards5942]

This is not the gl plus its the s edition

[@ishmantehskypenutzy]

The Suzuki website is saying the S-Edition comes with Alloy Wheels, this car has hub caps over steel wheels. Unless that has since changed.