Made-in-India Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Maruti Suzuki has officially launched the made-in-India Dzire in the South African market. Following its recent rollout in the Philippines, the subcompact sedan continues its global expansion, offering South African buyers a reliable and economical sedan. While the Dzire retains its core design and powertrain from the India-spec version, there are several noteworthy changes in terms of features, technology, and transmission options tailored to local preferences.

Pricing Comparison: South Africa vs India

South Africa-Spec Suzuki Dzire Price Range

• Starting Price: R224,900 (approx. ₹10.66 lakh)

• Top-End Variant: R266,900 (approx. ₹12.65 lakh)

India-Spec Maruti Suzuki Dzire Price Range

• Starting Price: ₹6.84 lakh

• Top-End Variant: ₹10.19 lakh
  (All prices are ex-showroom)

The South African Dzire is significantly more expensive than the Indian version. The base model in South Africa costs nearly ₹4 lakh more, while the top variant demands a premium of about ₹2.5 lakh compared to the Indian equivalent.

Exterior Design: Subtle Differences

What the South African Dzire Offers

• Projector halogen headlights

• 15-inch black alloy wheels

• No fog lamps or LED DRLs

What the Indian Dzire Offers

• Premium LED projector headlights

• Dual-tone alloy wheels

• Fog lamps and LED daytime running lights

Despite retaining the same silhouette and body structure, the South African Dzire comes with toned-down lighting features. The LED components and additional chrome accents available in India are notably absent.

Interior & Features: Feature-Light Global Model

Interior Design

• Both models feature a dual-tone black and beige dashboard with fabric seats

• No silver trim accents on the dashboard in the South African version, slightly affecting cabin aesthetics

Infotainment & Convenience

• South Africa: 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control

• India: 9-inch touchscreen in higher trims, wireless charging, 360-degree camera, push-button start

The South African version lacks many premium features found in India, such as a single-pane sunroof, leather-wrapped steering, and wireless smartphone charger.

Powertrain & Transmission: South Africa Gets a CVT Advantage

Engine Specifications (Identical Engine)

• 1.2-liter 3-cylinder Petrol Engine

  • Power: 82 PS

  • Torque: 112 Nm

Transmission Options

• South Africa: 5-speed Manual & CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• India: 5-speed Manual & AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)

One of the most notable differences is the availability of a CVT in South Africa, which offers smoother and more refined shifts compared to the AMT used in India. This enhancement improves urban drivability and gives the Dzire a more premium driving feel abroad.

India also offers a CNG variant, producing 70 PS and 102 Nm, which is not available in South Africa.

Safety Features: Similar Protection Across Borders

Both versions of the Dzire offer nearly identical safety suites:

• 6 airbags (standard)

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

• Rear parking sensors

• ISOFIX child seat mounts

However, the 360-degree camera, a highlight in top-end Indian models, is not offered in the South African variant.

Similarities Between Indian and South African Dzire

• Same 1.2L petrol engine

• Identical exterior shape and LED tail lamp design

• Shared dashboard layout and seating arrangement

• Common features like automatic climate control, cruise control, and rear AC vents

• Standard safety features across both models

Key Differences Between Indian and South African Dzire

In the Indian market, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire competes with:

• Hyundai Aura

• Honda Amaze

• Tata Tigor

Each of these sub-4m sedans offers a mix of value, features, and efficiency, but the Dzire remains one of the best-selling in its class thanks to Maruti Suzuki’s brand reputation and extensive service network.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the price of the Maruti Suzuki Dzire in South Africa?

The Dzire is priced between R224,900 and R266,900 in South Africa, which translates to approximately ₹10.66 lakh to ₹12.65 lakh.

2. Does the South African Dzire have more features than the Indian model?

No, the South African Dzire lacks several premium features available in the Indian version, such as LED headlights, sunroof, wireless charging, and 360-degree camera.

3. What transmission does the South African Dzire use?

The South African-spec Dzire is equipped with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), offering a smoother drive compared to the AMT in India.

4. Is the CNG version of Dzire available in South Africa?

No, the CNG-powered Dzire is only available in India at the moment.

5. Are safety features the same in both versions?

Yes, both the India and South Africa Dzire models come with 6 airbags, ESC, and rear parking sensors as part of their standard safety suite.