The Suzuki S-Presso captured a lot of hearts since its introduction in early 2020. Its cute mini-SUV look was paired with a very basic interior which led to a very attractive price point. However, it’s too basic for some because of the manual transmission. With the traffic we experience everyday in the metro, an automatic would be a great compliment to the simplicity of the car.
Suzuki PH finally grants the wish of everyone who shares this sentiment. They just opened the reservations for the new S-Presso AGS. It utilizes their proprietary ‘automated manual’ Auto Gear Shift transmission that made its debut in the Dzire back in 2018 that’s also used in the current Celerio hatch. The difference from a normal automatic transmission is that the AGS is effectively a 5-speed manual, only with an electronic actuator for shifting gears removing the need for the cumbersome clutch pedal. This makes it lighter and easier to maintain while being easier to use and fuel efficient.
They could’ve called it a day with the new transmission, but Suzuki went ahead and gave the S-Presso other features to make it not so basic anymore. Note that most of these are also given to the manual trim unless otherwise stated.
There’s no changes on the exterior and the MT and AGS variants get the same features including the 14-inch alloy wheels. Most revisions were found in the cabin starting with the new touchscreen infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (that’s not even in the more expensive Celerio). This is complimented by the steering wheel that received additional buttons for bluetooth, phone, and audio controls matched with a new overhead microphone for voice commands if you’re using the Apple and Google voice assistants. The center gauge cluster also got a small update with the inclusion of a gear indicator for the AGS variant. Last is the electronic control switch for the side mirror in lieu of the old school stick adjustment.
The engine was also updated for both trims. It now uses the same K10C 1-liter DualJet engine found in the Celerio that includes the Engine Start-Stop system but still has 67 horsepower and 90 Nm of torque. Other new tech include Electronic Stability Program while the AGS gets additional Hill Hold Control.
With all these improvements, the new Suzuki S-Presso MT is now available for P620,000 while the AGS version is currently for reservation only at P660,000. They’re available in Fire Red, Sizzle Orange, White, and Metallic Granite Gray.