The short and sweet of it: Suzuki’s S-Presso

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As every connoisseur will tell you, the best way to experience quality coffee is to remove all but the very essence and to concentrate the flavour in a short and very flavourful espresso. This is the inspiration behind the S-Presso, a new urban SUV that condenses all the best Suzuki characteristics in a compact and affordable package.

 

While sipping on an espresso Suzuki’s local success is no fluke. The manufacturer produces quality compact vehicles that are both reliable and well-priced. It sounds simple, but it’s part of a strategic plan.

Their newest offering, the S-Presso, joins the family with a covert title, “South Africa’s cheapest vehicle”. Being cheap does not always mean having less. In fact, the S-Presso is better equipped in many regards when compared to several cars more expensive. Loaded with features, the S-Presso boasts the following: air-conditioning, electric front windows, airbags, ABS brakes with EBD, a service plan and an impressive infotainment system that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard – much like its rivals and unlike some premium European brands.

With only two speakers doing sound duty, you would think the beats would be lacking. Again, this would be underestimating the S-Presso. The sound is more than adequate. The system also offers Bluetooth supplements USB and auxiliary ports.

The S-Presso is a hybrid of design concepts – city-hatch and retro off-roader design cues (thanks to generous 180 mm ground clearance), which while in my possession left my aesthetic eye perplexed. Its quirky design didn’t align with my vibe, but its mechanical prowess did meet with the approval of my motoring journalism judgement. This little car is a gem to drive. Its super-lightweight body (766 kg) allows its small free revving 1.0-l 3-cylinder motor (50 kW/ 90 N.M) to keep up with the big boys while working through its light action and positive action 5-speed manual gearbox. The benefit of light, compact and small engine motor is good fuel consumption – 4.8L/100 km

The S-Presso is a slim vehicle but, like many other aspects of the car, its modest proportions aren’t to be underestimated. Suzuki’s design team should be applauded with how much they have packed into the vehicle. There is a generous 724 mm of rear legroom –that is more than you’ll find in cars as big as Golf or A-Class. In addition, there is a high roofline, which means four adults will fit in the S-Presso in surprising comfort. The boot is a nice size and there are several nooks and crannies spread throughout the cabin for storage. I am a fan of the comfortable seats that offer softer cushioning for a comforting feel.  

The short and sweet of it – the S-Presso is SA’s best entry-level new car. Spacious, good to drive and with excellent standard spec and a service plan. It is another winner from Suzuki.

All models also feature colour-coded door handles and side mirrors, with the choice of six exterior colours: Sizzle Orange, Pearl Starry Blue, Fire Red, Metallic Granite Grey, Metallic Silky Silver and White.

 

 

Pricing

S-Presso 1.0 GL R139 900

S-Presso 1.0 GL + R144 900

S-Presso 1.0 GL + AMT R158 900

S-Press 1.0 S-Edition R152 900

S-Presso 1.0 S-Edition AMT R166 900

 

Service and Warranty

 

Promotional 5-year / 200 000 km mechanical warranty returns. The S-Presso is sold with a 2-year / 30 000 km service plan and 5-year / 200 000 km mechanical warranty. Suzuki has added a year of complementary insurance included in the price. The mechanical warranty includes a 3-year / unlimited roadside assistance plan, which now includes features such as battery and locksmith support, call-out services, mechanical and electrical support, breakdown towing and emergency medical rescue. The service also includes stand-by-you roadside security, while you wait for roadside assistance.

 

Car tested and my choice from the range

 

S-Press 1.0 S-Edition R152 900

www.suzukiauto.co.za

 

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