Maruti Suzuki Dzire

The 2025 Swift Dzire debuts a 1.2L Z-Series 3-cylinder petrol engine (82 PS, 112 Nm), paired with a 5-speed manual or AMT, alongside a CNG variant (70 PS, 101 Nm, MT only), delivering a mix of efficiency and modest pep tailored for urban and suburban life. We clocked the petrol manual at 0-100 kmph in 12 seconds—nimble enough to dart past traffic, with a linear power delivery that feels eager below 3,000 RPM, though it tapers off on highway sprints. 

The AMT, smoother than older units, shifts crisply in city crawls, achieving a claimed 24.97 kmpl—our mixed-use tests hovered at 22 kmpl, sipping fuel at roughly ₹3/km versus ₹6/km for rivals like the Aura’s petrol.

The CNG version, slower at 14 seconds to 100 kmph, trades pace for thrift, boasting 32.8 km/kg (claimed), translating to real-world 30 km/kg, or under ₹2/km running costs—a wallet-friendly win. Top speed caps at 155 kmph for petrol (140 kmph CNG), and the 37-litre petrol tank (55 kg CNG capacity) stretches ranges to 900 km on petrol, 800 km on CNG, ideal for long commutes. 

The Z-Series engine, quieter than the old K12 thanks to reduced NVH, hums with a refined note, though its 3-cylinder thrum vibrates subtly at idle—less intrusive than Tata’s Revotron but not as silky as Hyundai’s Kappa.

Throttle response is sharp in city mode, with the AMT’s creep function easing bumper-to-bumper woes, while the CNG’s torque dip demands planning for overtakes. No turbo here—rivals like Aura offer more grunt—but the Dzire’s lightweight 920 kg frame keeps it sprightly, balancing mileage with just-enough muscle for its segment.

The 2025 Swift Dzire’s ride and handling package is tuned for urban agility with a nod to highway stability, though it leans firm to suit India’s patchy roads. Up front, MacPherson struts paired with a rear torsion beam suspension soak up small undulations, but we felt sharper potholes and ruts at 30 kmph, transmitting a jarring thud through the cabin—more so with the CNG’s extra 70 kg. Above 50 kmph, the ride smooths out impressively, ironing over highway expansion joints and mild ripples, making it a relaxed cruiser at 100 kmph, where wind noise stays muted thanks to tighter seals.

The 165 mm ground clearance navigates urban speed breakers with a whisper of scrape on bigger ones—laden, it’s closer to 140 mm—while the 2,450 mm wheelbase ensures a compact turning radius of 4.8 meters, letting us flick it through tight U-turns and parking lots with ease. Handling shines in city weaves; the electric power steering, light yet precise, delivers quick responses, and the 920 kg kerb weight keeps body roll minimal when cornering at 70 kmph—fun for a sedan this size.

At 120 kmph, it’s planted, though crosswinds nudge its tall 1,520 mm profile slightly, and the 185/65-R15 tyres (MRF ZVTV) grip confidently on dry tarmac, less so in wet patches where ESP intervenes subtly.

Braking—ventilated discs front, drums rear—offers progressive bite; we triggered ABS in a 60 kmph panic stop, halting cleanly in 3 seconds with no nose dive. The AMT’s hill hold feature shines on inclines, holding steady for 2 seconds, though the CNG’s extra mass dulls agility a touch. It’s a poised commuter—nimble in town, steady on straights, but not a plush highway sofa.

The 2025 Swift Dzire’s cabin strikes a balance between utility and modest flair, offering a thoughtfully laid-out space that caters to daily needs. Wrapped in black-beige upholstery with silver accents, it feels fresh and inviting, a noticeable step up from its predecessors’ utilitarian roots. We found the front seats well-contoured, providing decent lumbar support and cushioning that’s firm yet comfortable for hour-long drives, with manual height adjustment on ZXi+ adding a touch of personalization.

The dashboard, dominated by a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims, integrates seamlessly with physical buttons for climate control, blending modern tech with tactile ease. Rear seating—a fixed bench—offers 925 mm of knee space, comfortably accommodating two adults or three kids, though shoulder room tightens with a full load, and the lack of a center headrest feels like a miss for long journeys. Headroom’s generous at 950 mm, even for taller passengers, thanks to the sedan’s 1,520 mm height.

The 378-litre boot is a practical asset, swallowing two large suitcases or a week’s groceries with ease, expandable to 700 litres when the rear seats fold flat—a boon for weekend getaways. However, the CNG variant’s tank encroaches on this space, dropping usable volume to about 250 litres, a trade-off for its eco-cred.

Features like automatic AC, rear AC vents (VXi+), wireless charging (ZXi+), and a cooled glovebox elevate convenience, while the 12V socket and USB ports keep devices juiced.

Storage nooks—door pockets, a center console tray—handle small items, though the absence of a front armrest (except ZXi+) niggles. Lower trims lean on hard plastics, but fit and finish stay tight, reflecting Maruti’s practical ethos. It’s a cozy, functional nook—think everyday ease over outright luxury.

The 2025 Swift Dzire’s exterior is a striking evolution, shedding its Swift roots for a distinct sedan identity. Up front, the hexagonal grille dominates—wide, matte-black with horizontal slats, framed by a chrome strip that adds a premium touch. We found its crystalline LED headlamps, paired with horizontal LED DRLs, razor-sharp and modern, echoing luxury cues from pricier sedans—think Audi-inspired sleekness on a budget.

The bumper’s sculpted fog lamp housings and subtle air vents lend aggression, while the hood’s gentle creases keep it elegant.

From the side, a strong shoulder line runs taut from headlamp to taillight, giving it a planted stance despite its 1,520 mm height. The 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels (ZXi+) sport a dynamic “7”-shaped design, though we’d argue 16-inch options could’ve amplified grip and presence—lower trims settle for 14-inch steel wheels with covers, functional but uninspired.

Around back, Y-shaped LED taillights with a smoked finish connect via a chrome strip, widening its visual footprint, and a lip spoiler adds sportiness. The shark-fin antenna and turn indicators on ORVMs polish the look.

Seven monotone shades (e.g., Gallant Red, Nutmeg Brown) and dual-tone options (e.g., Luster Blue with Black) offer versatility—it’s compact at 3,995 mm yet feels substantial, a clever balance of style, proportion, and road presence that’s more sophisticated than rivals like the Aura or Amaze.

The 2025 Swift Dzire refines its compact sedan formula with sharper looks, top-tier safety, and stellar efficiency, making it a compelling pick for city commuters and small families. We love its frugal running costs—₹2/km on CNG—and the feature-packed ZXi+ trim, though the firm ride and modest power won’t thrill everyone. It’s not flawless—rear comfort and base variant value lag—but for practicality and peace of mind, it’s a segment benchmark. Test drive it if mileage and safety top your list.