Maruti Suzuki Dzire Review: Is the 5-Star Rated Sedan Still India’s Favorite in 2026?

There was a time when the Maruti Suzuki Dzire was known for two things: incredible mileage and being the “default” choice for Indian families. But in 2026, the game has changed. This isn’t just a minor facelift; the all-new 4th Generation Maruti Suzuki Dzire has shed its “safe player” image to become a segment disruptor.

With a shocking 5-star Global NCAP safety rating (the first for any Maruti in India) and premium additions like a sunroof and 360-degree camera, the Dzire is no longer just a commuter’s tool—it’s a legitimate lifestyle choice.

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire starts at an aggressive ex-showroom price of ₹6.79 Lakh, going up to ₹10.14 Lakh for the top-end ZXi+ AMT variant. In a market obsessed with SUVs like the Punch and Nexon, can this sedan reclaim its crown? Let’s find out.

QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Feature	Specification
Engine	1.2L Z-Series, 3-Cylinder Petrol
Power (BHP/NM)	80 BHP / 112 NM
Transmission	5-Speed Manual / 5-Speed AMT
Boot Space	382 Litres
Ground Clearance	163 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	37 Litres
Safety Rating	5-Star Global NCAP (Adult)

EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

The new Dzire finally looks like a sedan designed from scratch, rather than a Swift with a boot slapped on. The front is dominated by a large, sophisticated honeycomb grille and sleek LED headlamps with crystalline DRLs. It looks wider and more “planted” than before.

The side profile is where you notice the most change. The 15-inch diamond-cut alloys look premium, and the roofline flows much better into the boot. It doesn’t scream for attention like a bright red SUV, but in colors like Gallant Red or Alluring Blue, it certainly turns heads. It’s a mature, executive-looking car that fits perfectly in a corporate parking lot or a family driveway.

INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

Step inside, and the “budget” feel of the old Dzire is gone. The dual-tone black and beige theme remains, but the materials feel significantly more substantial.

• Dashboard: You get a floating 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen that is slick and responsive. The faux-wood inserts add a touch of class without looking tacky.
• Space: Legroom in the back is excellent—this remains the Dzire’s superpower. While three adults at the back is a squeeze, two adults and a child will be very comfortable. The rear AC vents are effective and a lifesaver in Indian summers.
• Features: Maruti has finally listened. The 2026 Dzire gets a single-pane electric sunroof, a 360-degree HD camera, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Missing Features: I would have loved to see ventilated seats given our climate, and the boot, while decent at 382 litres, is slightly smaller than the new Honda Amaze.

ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

The new 1.2L Z-Series 3-cylinder engine replaces the old 4-cylinder K-Series. Many purists were worried about the switch, but here’s the truth:

• City Drive: The engine is tuned for low-end torque. The clutch is light as a feather, and the steering is effortless. It’s arguably the easiest sedan to park in tight spots.
• Highway Drive: Stability at 100 kmph is vastly improved. The “tinny” feel of older Marutis is gone; it feels heavier and more anchored. However, with 3 cylinders, you do hear a “thrum” when you push it past 3500 RPM.
• Suspension: The suspension absorbs potholes easily. Maruti has mastered the art of “Indian tuning”—it rounds off sharp edges on broken roads beautifully, though you will feel some body roll if you try to take corners aggressively.

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SAFETY: The Game Changer

This is the most important part of this review. For years, Maruti was criticized for build quality. The 2026 Dzire has silenced the critics with a 5-star Global NCAP rating.

• Standard Safety: 6 Airbags, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and Hill Hold Assist are standard across all variants.
• Build Quality: The doors have a more reassuring “thud” than before, and the use of high-strength steel is evident in the car’s composure.

REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

Maruti owners care about “Kitna Deti Hai” more than anything else.

Fuel Type	ARAI Claimed	Real World City	Real World Highway
Petrol (Manual)	24.79 kmpl	18 – 19 kmpl	22 – 23 kmpl
Petrol (AMT)	25.71 kmpl	17 – 18 kmpl	21 – 22 kmpl
CNG (Manual)	33.73 km/kg	26 – 28 km/kg	31 – 32 km/kg

Note: In heavy bumper-to-bumper traffic, the Petrol mileage might drop to 15-16 kmpl, but it still remains the most efficient car in its class.

THE COMPETITION: Dzire vs Amaze vs Aura

Feature	Maruti Dzire	Honda Amaze (2026)	Hyundai Aura
Safety Rating	5-Star GNCAP	4-Star (Expected)	2-Star
Transmission	Manual / AMT	Manual / CVT	Manual / AMT
Key Feature	360-Cam / Sunroof	ADAS / CVT Smoothness	Best Interior Fit
VFM Rank	1st	2nd	3rd

Winner: The Maruti Dzire takes the crown because it finally offers a 5-star safety rating combined with the best mileage and the largest service network. The Amaze is better if you want a smooth CVT, but the Dzire is the more complete package.

FINAL VERDICT

Buy it if:

• Safety is your priority: A 5-star Maruti is a dream come true for many.
• You want low running costs: The Z-Series engine is a fuel-sipping masterpiece.
• You want high resale value: A Dzire sells faster than hotcakes in the used car market.

Skip it if:

• You want a “Driving Enthusiast” car: The 3-cylinder engine lacks the top-end punch of a turbo-petrol.
• You want a massive boot: The 382L boot is good, but rivals offer slightly more.
• You hate the “Common Car” feel: You will see ten other Dzires at every traffic signal.

FAQs (People Also Ask)