OMNI-PRESENCE

MARUTI OMNI
PRICE Rs 2.49 (5-seater), Rs 2.51 lakh (8-seater)
(ex-showroom, Mumbai)
ON SALE Now

The incorporation of the Bharat Stage III emissions norms has seen many manufacturers taking advantage to slightly upgrade their models, and Maruti is no exception.
After the recent face-lift for the 800, it is now the Omni's turn in the botox lab.

The dimensions remain the same, the major changes are restricted to a slight reworking of the headlamp design, clear lenses for the headlamp, a pseudo grille, and the now-popular use of stickers plastered on the sides to liven up the looks. The car is still instantly recognisable as an Omni, but the changes have added that slight zing. Maruti has also freshened up the interiors with an entirely new dashboard and steering wheel and two-tone seats, that follow the same colour scheme as the upholstery of the M800. New clearer-to-read speedo /fuel gauge/engine temperature dials complete the upgrade. Fit and finish of the interiors is still shabby and the centre console resembles that of the Wagon R, minus the vents and the air-con knobs of course. A headlamp beam adjuster has also been added following the new laws governing cars sold from April 2005. The Omni finally gets radial tyres as standard mounted on the M800/Alto’s 12-inch wheels, which should improve ride comfort. Four new body colours add the finishing touch.
The Omni is a people-mover. Space for five or eight people depending on the version you buy, an LPG version and cheap and easy repairs that are in the DNA of all Marutis translates to minimum ownership costs and a hassle-free ownership experience. The only area of concern with the Omni is with its safety. With no engine ahead of the cab, and thin sheet metal the only protection in front of the driver and passenger, even minor accidents can have dire consequences.
At the ex-showroom Mumbai price of Rs 2.51 lakh for the eight- seater and Rs 2.49 lakh for the five-seater, the venerable Omni retains its USP as one of the cheapest cars that you can buy on planet Earth today.
Ouseph Chacko

Factfile
Engine
Layout 3-cylinder, in-line 796cc
Max power 35bhp at 5000rpm
Max torque 6.1kgm at 3000rpm

How big
Length 3370mm
Width 1410mm
Height 1640mm
Wheelbase 1840mm
Kerb weight 785kg
Fuel tank capacity 36 litres

WHAT TO EXPECT
The cheapest MUV on the market with fresher looks and features.