Features / 9 January 2023 / Michael Taylor

Updated Suzuki S-Presso vs Renault Kwid – The most affordable cars in South Africa

It’s no secret that cars are incredibly expensive in South Africa, with your typical family SUV now costing more than half a million rand.

Luckily, there are still a number of affordable models on the market, such as the Suzuki S-Presso which recently went through a mid-life refresh.

Even with the small price bump accompanying the update, the S-Presso is still the cheapest car in the country with prices now starting at R162,900.

Also competing in South Africa’s most affordable sector is Renault’s Kwid, which starts at R180,999.

Engine

Both the Suzuki and the Renault use a 1.0-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine, though their performance is slightly different.

The former’s powerplant has a maximum output of 49kW and 89Nm, while the latter has a marginally-higher reading of 50kW and 91Nm.

On the entry-level models, both units are equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox that turns the front wheels, and the result is quite similar fuel usage.

In this case, the more powerful Kwid’s consumption works out to 4.9l/100km on a combined cycle, while S-Presso comes in at an even better 4.6l/100km.

Features

Entry-level cars have come a long way in recent years and in each of these hatches, buyers will find electric front windows, manual air conditioning, USB and Aux ports, rear parking sensors, ABS, two front airbags, and two speakers.

The Kwid further comes with a Bluetooth-capable sound system, which is where the S-Presso GL falls behind as it gets “radio preparation” meaning an antenna and speakers are installed but a radio will cost extra.

With its recent update, though, the Suzuki is now offered with a multifunction steering wheel, electric side mirrors, hill assist, and an engine stop-start system, too – whereas the Renault differentiates itself with LED daytime running lights, a semi-digital instrument cluster, and a gearshift indicator.

The slightly larger dimensions of the Kwid also result in a larger boot at 279 litres, compared to the S-Presso’s 239 litres.