Maruti Suzuki Ciaz v/s SKODA SLAVIA: Which is better?
What's the story
Maruti Suzuki has updated its popular sedan model, the Ciaz with three dual-tone color schemes and new safety features. The sedan now starts at Rs. 9.19 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.
While Ciaz holds the champion's crown in the mid-size sedan segment, it is now challenged by the SKODA SLAVIA for the top spot.
Can the established champion retain its crown against the new contender?
Context
Why does this story matter?
Maruti Suzuki has dominated the mid-size sedan segment with over 30% market share with its Ciaz since 2014. The carmaker has sold over three lakh units of the four-wheeler till 2022.
However, competitors such as SKODA SLAVIA and Volkswagen Virtus are slowly catching up with the leader.
To compete against the new contenders, the homegrown carmaker has updated its champion with new features.
Exteriors
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz looks more pleasing with understated styling
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz sports a long and sculpted bonnet, a black grille with chrome surrounds, sweptback projector LED headlights with DRLs, 16-inch designer alloy wheels, and wrap-around LED taillights.
SKODA SLAVIA flaunts a lengthy and muscular hood, chrome-surrounded butterfly grille, angular dual-pod LED headlights, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and sleek LED taillights with crystal-like elements.
Both sedans get a sloping roofline.
Performance
SKODA SLAVIA packs more powerful engine options
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz draws power from a 1.5-liter, K-series, petrol engine that generates 102hp/138Nm. The mill is mated to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque-converter gearbox.
SKODA SLAVIA runs on either a 1.0-liter, turbo-petrol unit that develops 113hp/175Nm or a 1.5-liter, turbocharged petrol motor that produces 148hp/250Nm. Transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, or a 7-speed DSG gearbox.
Interiors
Both sedans feature a dual-tone dashboard and leather-wrapped steering wheel
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz features a dual-tone dashboard, premium fabric upholstery, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 7.0-inch infotainment system, multiple airbags, ESP, and hill-hold control.
SKODA SLAVIA gets leatherette upholstery, ventilated front seats, a sunroof, a wireless charger, ambient lighting, an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8.0-inch infotainment system, a rear-view camera, and six airbags.
Our verdict
Which one should you buy?
In India, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz ranges between Rs. 9.19 lakh and Rs. 12.34 lakh, while SKODA SLAVIA is available between Rs. 11.29 lakh and Rs. 18.4 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom).
In our opinion, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz makes more sense as it offers attractive looks, a spacious cabin, and a frugal K-series engine at a relatively affordable price point.