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Posted on: Aug 18 2007

Maruti Esteem

Maruti re-launched its ageing Esteem with a new look and more features — and many of the changes were badly needed if the Esteem was to keep up with newer competition. We’d long expected the Esteem to be replaced with the more modern Suzuki Liana, but Maruti obviously has enough confidence in its little sedan to keep it going for at least a few years more.:

Design, Engineering and Interiors:
A new front and rear mark the revised Esteem, and the changes are quite effective, considering the decade-old design. A taller grille, large, clear lamps and a deep chin give the Esteem a ‘junior Baleno’ look. At the rear, the lamps occupy the same area but have been re-done in crystal-effect red, and the reversing lights are separate again. On all-independent suspension, the Esteem sits very low, which can make it difficult to get in and out of. Sadly, it doesn't feel very solidly built, and has a typically Japanese, tinny feel. Thankfully, though, the car has a reputation for reliability.

Like the Zen, the age of the design cannot be fully cloaked under new make-up, especially the fact that it is neither as stiff nor as safe as many more modern cars.The interior is quite a familiar place, but has been freshened up quite a bit by new bits of trim, such as the pretty silver-and-white dials and aluminium-look trim on the centre console and gearknob. The plastics aren’t of the best quality though, and the slider-type air-con controls look particularly cheap. Equipment levels aren’t high either.

Space has always been the Esteem's biggest problem, and that hasn't changed. The rear seat in particular is cramped, and getting in and out of this low car needs some athletic ability. Plus, you sit very low, although in front, the low dashboard and windscreen make for great visibility. The height-adjustable driver's seat does help.The steering wheel gets a larger boss, but the rest is unchanged, bar the upholstery. What has really improved is the rear seat, which now offers better support.

Nevertheless, the Esteem cannot truly cut it as a family saloon, lacking the space for both occupants and storage to make it a practical choice.

Performance, Fuel Economy and Handling: 
The Esteem offers a choice between an 85bhp 1.3-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel, and the option of a three-speed auto ’box on the petrol version, and a five-speed manual.
The 1.3 petrol, although ancient, is one of the finest engines available in India: built largely out of aluminium, it is refined, powerful, and frugal and loves to be revved. In fact, it can accelerate quicker than an old Honda City VTEC! This engine is virtually bombproof, and a sipper, averaging an amazing 10.1 and 16.7kpl in city and on the highway.
The diesel, borrowed from Peugeot, is another excellent powerplant, with decent torque and sensational fuel economy, at 14.57kpl in the city and 18.1kpl on the open road. It's not too powerful, with only 57bhp, but with the Esteem's low kerb weight, performance is quite respectable nevertheless.

What helps both engines along is the excellent gearbox, which is light and precise, although the too-tall gearing affects driveability somewhat. However, the tall gearing makes the car a composed highway cruiser, especially the diesel. The Esteem is a nimble car in the city, with light controls and nippy handling. The new Esteem has a much-improved ride too, especially at urban speeds. It's only at speed and on uneven surfaces that it gets bent out of shape. The lack of chassis rigidity, a choppy ride and over-light power steering make it a bit nervous at speeds, and it isn't as confidence-inspiring as some of its rivals. The compact dimensions and effortless steering pay off in town, where it is very nimble and easy to drive, but the high boot lid makes the Esteem a pain to park.

Verdict:
The refreshed Esteem is certainly not ‘all-new’ as Maruti claims, but it does a commendable job of keeping up with its rivals. There’s no hiding the basic age of the design, the cramped cabin or the lack of practicality, but Maruti’s boffins have improved whatever they could, and if its low-key image doesn’t bother you, the Esteem is not a bad car at all, particularly in the city. Add to that the Esteem’s inherent reliability and Maruti’s unrivalled service network, and the Esteem makes a surprisingly strong case for itself. Few cars have as good and as deserved a reputation for hassle-free ownership as the Esteem, and with its value and decent warranty, it shouldn’t be overlooked. Cheap spares, low running costs and phenomenal service network still gives the Esteem a good standing in the market.
Source: autocarindia.com