Choosing a new car is a big decision, isn't it? You juggle so many things in your mind: your budget, how safe the car is, the monthly maintenance costs, whether it has all the latest features, and of course, the company's service network. In India, these factors are even more important. Today, we are taking a close look at a car that often ticks many of these boxes for Indian families: the new Maruti Dzire ZXI Plus AMT. Let's find out if this popular compact sedan is the perfect fit for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: Z12E
• Max Power: 80bhp@5700rpm
• Max Torque: 111.7Nm@4300rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)
• Known for its excellent fuel efficiency and smooth performance in city conditions.

Design Overview

The Maruti Dzire has always been about balancing style with practicality, and the ZXI Plus AMT continues this tradition.

Exterior:

• Features a sleek, modern look with a prominent chrome-accented front grille.
• Stylish LED projector headlamps with DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) give it a premium feel.
• The side profile is characterized by clean lines and precision-cut alloy wheels (for ZXI Plus), adding to its sophisticated appeal.
• At the rear, the integrated spoiler and signature LED tail lamps complete the contemporary design.

Interior:

• Step inside, and you are greeted by a dual-tone cabin, often with a subtle wood-finish accent that adds a touch of elegance.
• The dashboard layout is clean and user-friendly, putting all controls within easy reach.
• Comfortable seating for five adults, with good legroom and headroom, making it suitable for family trips.
• The flat-bottom steering wheel adds a sporty touch and is comfortable to hold.

Key Features (Maruti Dzire ZXI Plus AMT)

• Infotainment: 7-inch SmartPlay Pro touchscreen infotainment system
• Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, voice assistant
• Sound System: Arkamys premium sound system
• Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control
• Convenience: Cruise control, engine start/stop button, steering-mounted audio and call controls
• Visibility: Electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs (Outside Rear-view Mirrors)
• Rear Comfort: Rear AC vents, rear power outlet
• Lighting: LED projector headlamps, front fog lamps
• Parking: Reverse parking camera with sensors

What is the Ground Clearance of Maruti Dzire?

The Maruti Dzire offers a ground clearance of 163 mm, which is adequate for navigating most Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and minor undulations.

What is the Boot Space of Maruti Dzire?

The Dzire provides a generous boot space of 378 litres, which is quite practical for your weekend getaways or daily grocery runs, comfortably holding multiple suitcases.

What are the Dimensions of Maruti Dzire?

• Length: 3995 mm
• Width: 1735 mm
• Height: 1525 mm

Powertrain Options

The Maruti Dzire ZXI Plus AMT comes with a single powertrain option: the efficient 1.2-litre K12N DualJet petrol engine paired with a 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). This combination is designed for optimal fuel efficiency and ease of driving, especially in congested city traffic.

Safety Features

Maruti Suzuki has equipped the Dzire with a range of safety features to ensure peace of mind.

• Dual front airbags
• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and Brake Assist
• ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
• Hill Hold Assist (standard on AMT variants)
• ISOFIX child seat anchorages
• Rear parking sensors
• High-speed alert system
• Seat belt reminders for front passengers

NCAP Rating Table

Understanding a car's safety rating is crucial for prospective buyers.

Note: The Global NCAP rating is for the test conducted in 2020 on the current generation platform. Bharat NCAP is a new testing protocol and the Dzire has not been tested under it yet.

Rivals of Maruti Dzire ZXI Plus AMT

The Maruti Dzire operates in a highly competitive compact sedan segment. Its main rivals include:

• Honda Amaze
• Hyundai Aura
• Tata Tigor

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the Maruti Dzire ZXI Plus AMT to help you make an informed decision.

Pros (Advantages)

• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: One of the best in its class, helping you save on running costs.
• Smooth Engine: The 1.2-litre K12N DualJet engine is refined and responsive, especially in city driving.
• Convenient AMT: The Automated Manual Transmission offers hassle-free driving in traffic, reducing driver fatigue.
• Spacious and Comfortable Cabin: Offers good space for five passengers, making it a practical family car.
• Maruti's Reliable Service: Benefits from Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network and affordable maintenance.
• Strong Resale Value: Maruti cars generally hold their value well, a great long-term advantage.
• Feature-Rich: The ZXI Plus variant comes loaded with premium features like the SmartPlay Pro system, cruise control, and auto AC.

Cons (Disadvantages)

• AMT Jerkiness: While convenient, the AMT can sometimes exhibit slight jerkiness, especially during aggressive acceleration or at very low speeds.
• Average Safety Rating: The 2-star Global NCAP rating might be a concern for safety-conscious buyers.
• Interior Material Quality: While functional, some plastics might not feel as premium as a few rivals.
• Missing Premium Features: Lacks certain features found in some competitors, such as a sunroof, wireless phone charging, or a 360-degree camera.
• Road Noise: At higher speeds, some road and wind noise might filter into the cabin.

Conclusion

The Maruti Dzire ZXI Plus AMT stands out as a strong contender in the compact sedan segment. It brilliantly balances practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features, all backed by Maruti Suzuki's renowned reliability and widespread service network. While its AMT gearbox has a few quirks and the safety rating could be better, its overall package of comfort, convenience, and low running costs makes it an attractive choice for families and city commuters alike.

If you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-drive automatic car that is feature-rich, economical to run, and offers ample space for a small family, the Dzire ZXI Plus AMT deserves a serious look. It truly offers a complete package for the discerning Indian car buyer.