Bigger, sleeker Suzuki Ciaz

The Ciaz allows Suzuki to compete in the popular compact sedan segment for the first time, thus extending its potential reach to include customers seeking a larger sedan than the Swift DZire while still enjoying the fuel economy, safety, quality and affordability that have become synonymous with the Suzuki brand.

At 4 490mm long and 1 730mm wide, the new Ciaz is the longest and widest in its category, while the 2 650mm wheelbase is best in class. Generous front and rear tracks of 1 495mm and 1 505mm also benefit interior packaging while contributing to the car’s poised, confident stance. Ground clearance is a useful 160mm.

The bigger, sleeker Suzuki Ciaz. Picture: Suppled

Offered in a choice of two specification levels – GL and GLX – the new Ciaz is also available with a four-speed automatic gearbox.

But even the more affordable GL benefits from extensive comfort and convenience features. These include comprehensive instrumentation, a digital multifunction trip computer, electric windows front and rear and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors with integrated turn indicators. Also on the list are remote central locking, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control air-conditioning with rear vents, a six-speaker audio system with CD player and integrated Bluetooth.

The bigger, sleeker Suzuki Ciaz. Picture: Suppled

Powering the new Suzuki Ciaz is the latest, updated version of Suzuki’s proven K14B four-cylinder engine. Featuring 16 valves, multipoint fuel injection and variable valve timing, the 1 373cc unit combines eager power delivery with fuel-saving efficiency.

Maximum power output is 70kW at 6 000rpm, coupled to a torque peak of 130Nm at 4 000rpm. The engine delivers its output to the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox or the aforementioned auto.

The suspension layout consists of MacPherson struts with an anti-roll bar upfront and a torsion beam at the rear. Electric power steering is standard.

The bigger, sleeker Suzuki Ciaz. Picture: Suppled

Safety is comprehensively addressed in both active and passive terms. ABS anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and emergency braking assistance (EBA) are standard, as are dual front airbags, inertia reel seatbelts front and rear and integrated alarm/immobiliser and childproof rear door locks.

Comprehensive colour coding is offered and the GLX gets chromed door handles, chrome trim to emphasise the side glass aperture and chrome detailing on the bootlid. The wheels are 15-inch steel rims with full wheel covers for the GL version and 16-inch alloys for the GLX models.

The predominant interior colours are black and dark grey, with the upper section of the dashboard finished in black while the lower section features a dark grey, with silver accents. Smart cloth upholstery is standard on the GL, while GLX gets genuine leather.

Instuments include a digital clock, trip meter, odometer and ambient temperature gauge and also show information on instant and average fuel consumption – and remaining driving range.

The bigger, sleeker Suzuki Ciaz. Picture: Suppled

The instrument binnacle is neatly framed by the multifunction steering wheel, which is equipped with controls for the audio system and Bluetooth-based hands-free telephony.

The cabin makes ample provision for cup holders and storage binnacles. Each front and rear door features a bottle holder, while an overhead console is home to a convenient sunglasses holder on GLX models.

Additional binnacles include a lidded compartment at the bottom of the centre stack that is also home to a 12V power socket and both the USB and the analogue auxiliary inputs.

Talking of storage, the Ciaz has one of the biggest boots in its class, offering 495 litres of luggage space. A full-size spare wheel is standard.

The Ciaz is equipped with a front disc/rear drum ABS anti-lock braking system, featuring EBD and EBA.

The passive safety equipment array includes dual front airbags, inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters in front, side impact protection beams in the doors and childproof child locks for the rear doors. An alarm/immobiliser is another standard feature.

The bigger, sleeker Suzuki Ciaz. Picture: Suppled

Maximum power output is 70kW at 6 000rpm, with an accompanying torque peak of 130Nm at 4 000rpm, with a high percentage of torque already on song much lower down the rev range. Drive is to the front wheels.

Depending on the model, the Ciaz is fitted with 15-inch steel or 16-inch alloy wheels. The GL version’s 15-inch rims are shod with 185/65 R15 tyres, while the alloys on the GLX are wrapped with 195/55 R16 rubber.