Maruti Suzuki Cervo : Maruti Suzuki has launched the Cervo, a budget-friendly hatchback aimed at middle-class families in India. With an attractive starting price of ₹2.80 lakh (ex-showroom), the Cervo is designed for those seeking an economical yet reliable car for everyday use. Powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine, it delivers an impressive mileage of up to 35 kmpl, making it an excellent choice for city driving. Its compact dimensions and efficient performance ensure hassle-free navigation through crowded streets while keeping running costs low.
Design & Style: Compact Yet Contemporary
The Cervo boasts of a contemporary, futuristic look that is pretty youthful and something you won’t see in other entry-luxury hatchbacks. Sharp combination headlmap, an aggressive front grille and well designed bumper leaves a modern touch. Slim taillights and a gently sloping roofline add contemporary visual flair to the rear.
Inside, the cabin is basic but functional, sporting a no-nonsense, businesslike dashboard and user-friendly controls. The materials may be plain, but they’re hard-wearing and befitting the car’s price point. With its small dimensions, it makes parking and driving in busy city environments a piece of cake as well.
Engine & Performance: Efficient for City Driving
Powering the Cervo is 1.0-litre, three-pot petrol engine which develops close to 67-70 bhp, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. It’s not designed for high-speed performance, but the engine is well-suited for fuel economy and low-speed performance, which is ideal for stop-and-go traffic. In the lower gears, acceleration is peppy, if slightly underpowered on the highway.

Ride & Handling: Good to Drive in the City
Ride quality in the Cervo is agreeable and the credit of that can be given to its McPherson Strut front suspension and the rear torsion beam setup. The easy to steer design of the bute tricycle with parent handle combined with the narrow turning radius allows for tight U-turns and parking. While it’s not set up for high-speed stability, it’s stable at city speeds. Stopping takes its toll on both ends as well – front disc and rear drum -which offer decent levels of stopping power for everyday runs.
Features & Technology: Essential Amenities for Budget Buyers
As a budget-oriented model, the Cervo focuses on practicality rather than luxury. Key features include:
- Manual air conditioning
- Power steering and front power windows
- Basic music system with USB/AUX support
- Dual front airbags and ABS with EBD for safety
- Central locking in higher variants
While it lacks advanced infotainment systems, the Cervo covers all the essentials for cost-conscious buyers who prioritize functionality over frills.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency: A Cost-Effective Choice
One of the Cervo’s top selling points is its fuel economy. To compare: GTR makers are claiming the car to run 35 kmpl: you can expect 28 – 30 kmpl in real world and that’s still astronomical for a petrol hatchback like this. This, coupled with Maruti Suzuki’s pocket-friendly maintenance makes Cervo an economical long-term ownership option.
Price & Variants: Options for Every Budget
The Cervo is available in three variants:
- LX (Base) – ₹2.80 lakh: Includes essential safety features
- VXi (Mid) – Adds power windows and a music system
- ZXi (Top) – ~₹3.50 lakh: Comes with central locking and additional conveniences
Positioned against rivals like the Renault Kwid and Maruti Alto, the Cervo offers strong value in the entry-level segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a CNG variant available?
A: Not at the moment, but Maruti may introduce one in the future.
Q: Is the Cervo suitable for long trips?
A: It’s best suited for city commutes; larger cars are more comfortable for highways.
Q: Does it come with an automatic transmission?
A: Currently, only a 5-speed manual is offered.
Q: What is the seating capacity?
A: It comfortably accommodates four adults or two adults with two to three children.
Q: Is this a good choice for first-time buyers?
A: Absolutely—its affordability, ease of driving, and low maintenance make it an excellent first car.
Final Verdict: A Smart Choice for Practical Buyers
The MarutiCervo is a value for money selection for the buyers who are looking for a complete hatchback that is good on performance, efficiency, and low on price too. It is the perfect car for students and smaller families as it comes with Maruti’s reliable service network and low cost of ownership. If you need a plain and simple trustworthy city car that won’t break your bank, consider the Cervo as one of the best in its class.