Interior practicality
The Ritz is nowhere in the league. No cupholders, only small storage DIN slot for CDs and a seat under tray are provided. Whats shocking is the absence of parcel tray, not provided in any of the diesel models. The door pockets are OK, better than the punto but not in the same league as that of the I20.
Space and comfort:
The Ritz has pretty decent overall space for a car of its size and the front seats are very comfortable and coupled with high seating position, makes it for a nice elevated driving position. However in VDI there is no steering tilt/ rake adjust provided nor the driver's seat adjusts for height, a disadvantage for vertically challenged drivers.
The rear seats are flat and pretty unsupportive, though decently comfy for only 2 people. Any 3rd person, look elsewhere.
Boot Space:
The Ritz only has a 232-litre boot, small, not helped by the smashed up rear end design. All 3 cars offer the option of 60:40 split rear seat for additional flexibility.
Engine and performance:
Fiat Grande Punto is powered by an updated Euro 4 tuned version of the 1248 cc multijet engine, producing 75ps@4000 rpm and 190 Nm torque@2000 rpm in the Rits DDiS (1110 kg). Maruti has tuned the turbocharger (FGT) for drivability at low rpm than at top end. In the drag race, the ritz comprehensively beats the punto by a 3-second gap from 0-100, part of light weight and tall 3rd gear playing a role here. Turbo lag is noticeable in the ritz below 2000 rpm and after that, the engine wakes up and distributes all its torque evenly upto its redline.
Gear Box:
Like the swift, the ritz has a nice short throw and sporty gearbox with better shift times as compared to swift, without any baulks.
Driver appeal:
The Ritz, for its size, is again superb but would have been better if steering adjusts/ seat height adjustment could be provided for vertically challenged drivers. |
