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Suzuki's new budget-beating S-Presso was scheduled for launch this week, but the coronavirus' impact on South Africa forced the automaker to call it off.
While it is not ideal for anyone, it's a situation that warrants full understanding. Suzuki South Africa will replace the physical launch with a digital one. And though it’s not the same, it should help get the message of the car's arrival across.
But the S-Presso, what is it? Is Suzuki switching over to the coffee business? Not at all!
The S-Presso is the Japanese automaker’s answer to the very popular Renault Kwid. It is meant to offer something more affordable to consumers without breaking the bank.
In that regard, the Kwid has carved itself a solid reputation as an affordable alternative, and every month Renault sells around a thousand units. This is an aspect Suzuki would want to address, and have the S-Presso contribute to the solid, strong sales run its been on since late last year.
The new Suzuki S-Presso will retail from R139 900 in South Africa.
2020 Suzuki S-Presso. Image: Suzuki Media
Compact dimensions
As a city car, the S-Presso needs to be compact enough to navigate through traffic and tight parking spaces – something that's been part of the Kwid's main selling points. Here it bests the Kwid by being slightly shorter in length (3565mm vs. 3679mm). This difference in length is minimal, but, according to earlier press images, it would seem that the smart packaging allowed for an air of space.
READ: Suzuki's stellar sales start to 2020 in the local vehicle market
It remains to be seen whether or not the S-Presso's rear bench can be folded flat, but with the seats erect, the Suzuki has 240L of boot space to its disposal versus the Kwid’s 279L (620L with the rear seats folded flat).
Like the Kwid, the S-Presso boast with 180mm of ground clearance and is fitted with 14-inch wheels.
2020 Suzuki S-Presso. Image: Suzuki Media
Engine power
The S-Presso is powered by the same engine found in the Suzuki Celerio. Power outputs for the 998cc engine remain unchanged at 50kW and 90Nm. The three-cylinder motor is mated to either a five-speed manual gearbox or an automated manual transmission (AMT).
Renault's Kwid is also fitted with a three-cylinder 999cc engine and delivers 50kW/91Nm - virtually nothing to choose between them. It is also available with a five-speed manual ‘box and an AMT.
Though there is little difference between these front-wheel-drive cars' powertrains, the real test will come when the cars are driven back-to-back, and their driving traits are put under scrutiny.
Suzuki South Africa will announce the model line-up at the car’s digital launch, as well as how well each model will be kitted out.
2020 Suzuki S-Presso. Image: Suzuki Media
