Maruti Suzuki is undeniably the largest automobile manufacturer in India, shaping the automotive culture in the nation. The brand has been best known, since its founding, as affordable, dependable, and innovative. Best known for its small hatchbacks, its sedan range delivered a model that Indian customers rejected. Over the years, Maruti Suzuki has come out with a number of sedans in ideal proportions to cater to the discerning Indian buyer looking for that perfect mix of comfort, efficiency and performance.
From the marshy Maruti 1000 to the upmarket Ciaz and the runaway favourite Dzire, Maruti Suzuki sedans have been a go-to-choice for Indian families, professionals and even fleet operators. Both the sedan set benchmarks in their respective segments, and have remarkably remained relevant in a niche but competitive market.
Here are 7 iconic Maruti Suzuki sedans that altered the course of Indian automotive history:
-
Maruti 1000 (1989–1994)
Shortly afterward, the Maruti 1000 arrived, not only India’s first modern sedan but also Maruti Suzuki’s entry into the premium segment. It was powered by a 970cc petrol unit which produced 46 bhp when it was launched in 1989. Yes, fine, so it didn’t exactly have that get-up-and-go, but it was a status symbol throughout the late ’80s and early ’90s. Its stylish exteriors, plush interiors, and modern features made millions of Indian families want to own at least one of its models.
Why It Was Iconic:
- Maruti Suzuki’s first sedan.
- Status symbol in the 1990s.
- Dependable and civilised for its era.
-
Maruti Esteem (1994–2007)
The Maruti Esteem came in 1994, replacing the Maruti 1000, and it was a game-changer. It was also offered with a more powerful 1.3L engine that produced up to 85 bhp, vastly enhancing performance. Thanks to its relatively low price, good fuel efficiency and respectable ride quality, the Esteem proved to be popular with middle-class families and company car buyers alike.
The same goes for motorsport fans thanks to the lightweight body and peppy engine, it became a mainstay in rally events.
Why It Was Iconic:
- This was one of India’s top-selling sedans during the ’90s and early 2000s.
- Known for well-mannered engine behaviour and economy.
- One of the perks of being a motorsport fan.
-
Maruti Suzuki Baleno (First-Generation) (1999–2007)
Best known for making the Baleno hatchback, which, when launched back in 1999, was positioned as a premium offering. It was offered with a 1.6L petrol engine, with of the most powerful cars in its segment back in the day. Although it performed well, it did not gain popularity because of the price range.
Baleno generated a following and was known for its smooth riding, roomy interiors, and decent build quality. Over the years, it evolved into a favourite among enthusiasts after a mod-friendly, heavy, powerful sedan.
Why It Was Iconic:
- Maruti’s immensely powerful sedan of the era
- Provided superb ride comfort and space
- Acquired a cult following among enthusiasts
-
Maruti Suzuki SX4 (2007–2014)
When it comes to premium sedans in India, the Maruti Suzuki SX4 was one of the solo attempts Maruti Suzuki made to crack the segment. Initially launched in 2007 in a rugged, masculine design and used to feature high ground clearance and a powerful 1.6L petrol engine. Later, it was accompanied by a diesel option that made it a well-rounded offering for Indian buyers.
Being one of the only sedans in its class, it offered a crossover-like stance that made it a preferred choice in Indian cities plagued with bad roads. Bollywood sensation John Abraham was the brand ambassador, adding to young buyers’ fair share of aspiration.
Why It Was Iconic:
- Tough design with SUV-like ground clearance.
- Maruti’s first sedans to be offered in both petrol and diesel.
- Had a roomy cabin with upscale elements.
-
Maruti Suzuki Kizashi (2011-2014)
Maruti Suzuki Kizashi was the first sedan in the luxury segment from the brand in India. Introduced in 2011, it was sold as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) with a 2.4L petrol engine generating 176 bhp. This topped the Maruti Suzuki gasoline sedan lineup in India.
The Kizashi was a great car in every sense of the word, from performance and features to comfort, but its high price tag and lack of premium branding meant customers simply weren’t knocking down the doors. Hence, still one of the most underrated Maruti Suzuki, ever.
Why It Was Iconic:
- The most powerful sedan ever on sale by Maruti Suzuki in India
- Luxurious interiors and high-end features
- Maruti’s all-time favourite offering.
-
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz (2014-Present)
The Ciaz is a sedan among Maruti Suzuki’s most successful models. The Ciaz was launched way back in 2014 to take the place of the SX4 and was a rival to the Honda City and Hyundai Verna. It was nicely stretched with a roomy cabin, a fuel-efficient powertrain lineup and tons of luxury features on offer.
Suzuki introduced the Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS) technology in its diesel variant, which improved fuel efficiency and in turn boosted the model’s popularity. Being one of the executive sedan contenders, the Ciaz has always had a strong following.
Why It Was Iconic:
- A successful competitor in the premium sedan segment.
- SHVS technology helped the car improve its fuel efficiency.
- Generous, comfy and well-equipped.
-
Maruti Suzuki Dzire (2008–Present)
The Maruti Suzuki Dzire (previously the Swift Dezire) is by far the most iconic sedan in Maruti Suzuki’s history. Introduced in 2008, the car was based on the Swift hatchback, yet extended the rear end enough to qualify as a sedan. The Dzire has seen a number of updates through the years and is among the top-selling sedans in India.
Affordability, fuel efficiency and low running costs are the biggest strengths of the Dzire. It has continued to be the top-selling choice of families, fleet operators and ride-share services.
Why It Was Iconic:
- One of the all-time best-selling sedans in India.
- Inexpensive but high on features.
- Ideal for home and commercial use.
Conclusion
The story of Maruti Suzuki in the sedan segment is quite a remarkable one. From the entry-level Maruti 800 to the successful Dzire, the brand has consistently adapted itself to the Indian car buyer. While some of its models, like the Kizashi, tanked due to pricing, others like the Ciaz and Dzire have dominated their segments.
As Maruti Suzuki continues to pursue innovation, hybrid tech, and fuel economy, the future of its sedan range seems bright. No matter if it is a facelift of an old sedan or an all-new product altogether, the legacy of the Maruti Suzuki sedan lives on and continues to work wonders in the Indian automobile market.
