By Malusi Msomi

In the market for a budget micro-SUV? Recently, we attended the launch of the updated Suzuki S-Presso in the Mother City. Launched in 2020, Suzuki has sold over 14,400 units locally and 307,000 world wide. The range gets interior and exterior updates, a new engine and consists of the GL, GL+ and range topping S-Edition.

Exterior updates

In terms of the exterior, the S-Presso gets a few updates. One of the most notable changes is the replacement of the plastic moldings on the sides with body-colored side skirts. The front and rear bumpers now feature grey inserts which gives the car a sporty look. Another upgrade is the 14-inch alloy wheels that come as standard on the GL+ and S-Edition models. The car’s exterior also features an updated front grille design, new headlight and tail light design, as well as new color options.

Interior updates

Inside, the refreshed S-Presso gets quite a few new features including electric mirrors, audio and bluetooth controls on the steering wheel, ESP & EASS disable buttons, 7-inch touchscreen radio for the GL+, and 9-inch touchscreen radio in the range-topping S-Edition. The interior is pretty simple and straightforward with our favourite feature being Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Its relatively spacious but depending on your passenger height, knocking their knees with the gear lever will happen quite often.

Powering the updated S-Presso is a new K10C Dualjet 1.0-litre engine that develops 49kW/89Nm. The entire range is available with a manual or automatic option. Thanks to this new engine, its more economical with Suzuki claiming a fuel consumption figure of 4.4 L/100km for the AMT models. The new 1.0-litre engine is a peach, and whilst its 1 kW down from the engine it replaces, it felt quite peppy. Being a micro SUV, Suzuki took us on a short dirt road to show the S-Presso’s adventurous side.

The updated S-Presso starts from R162,900. A full review to come when we get the car on test.

Pricing

S-Presso 1.0 GL MT R162,900

S-Presso 1.0 GL AMT R176,900

S-Presso 1.0 GL+ MT R169,900

S-Presso 1.0 GL+ AMT R183,900

S-Presso 1.0 S-Edition MT R185,900

S-Presso 1.0 S-Edition AMT R199,90