Suzuki S-Presso vs. Toyota Wigo: Which compact car reigns supreme?

The local automotive market offers a plethora of options for car buyers, and two popular contenders in the compact car segment are the Suzuki S-presso and Toyota Wigo. As budget-friendly models, both vehicles have gained traction among Filipino car enthusiasts.

Let's dive into the details of the S-Presso and the Wigo and find out which one is the better choice.

Dimensions

The S-Presso measures 3,565 millimeters (mm) long, 1,520 mm wide, and 1,657 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,380 mm and a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm.

Meanwhile, the Wigo has a length of 3,760 mm, a width of 1,665 mm, and a height of 1,515 mm. It has a wheelbase of 2,525 mm and a minimum ground clearance of 160 mm.

Although there are only slight differences in the two hatchbacks' dimensions, we give this round to the S-Presso since its has a higher ground clearance, making it a better choice for any road condition.

Exterior

The S-Presso features a boxy design that gives it a distinctive look that stands out in a crowd. It also looks like a mini version of the iconic Jimny, making it appealing among off-roading enthusiasts.

Its quirky styling elements like the swept-back headlights, muscular wheel arches, and the floating roof design add a touch of playfulness to its overall appearance.

On the other hand, the Wigo takes a more conservative approach to its exterior design. It may not turn heads like the S-Presso, but it has a timeless appeal that many will appreciate. The clean lines and compact proportions make it easy to maneuver in tight city streets, while the sharp headlights and subtle curves add a touch of sophistication.

We give this round to the S-Presso due to its quirky appeal.

Interior

You will be pleasantly surprised by the amount of space the S-Presso offers. Despite its compact dimensions, the S-presso manages to provide a surprisingly roomy cabin. It comes equipped with modern conveniences like a digital speedometer; a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system; Bluetooth, Apple Carplay, and Android Auto connectivity; two speakers; and electric front windows.

The Wigo’s cabin is also well-designed, with user-friendly controls and practical storage options. It is equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display that can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, Apple Carplay, or Android Auto. It also comes with four speakers, a digital manual climate control, a push start system, power windows and door locks, and a 12-volt socket.

We give this round to the Wigo as it comes with upgraded interior amenities.

Engine

Under the hood of the S-Presso is a peppy 1.0-liter engine that delivers up to 65 horsepower (hp) and 89 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. It is mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or Auto Gear Shift, depending on the variant.

The Wigo also comes with a 1.0-liter engine that churns out 67 hp and 89 Nm of torque, offering similar performance to its rival. It comes in five-speed manual and continuously variable transmission variants.

We give this round a tie since the specs of the two engines are almost the same.

Safety

To ensure safety to all occupants, the S-Presso is equipped with front dual airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic stability program, hill hold control, and parking sensors.

Meanwhile, the Wigo comes standard with driver, front passenger, side, and curtain airbags; vehicle stability control; hill-start assist control; blind spot monitor; rear cross traffic alert; back camera; and clearance and back sonar.

This round goes to the Wigo as it is equipped with more advanced safety technologies.

Variants and pricing

The Wigo comes in three variants: the J MT priced at P609,000, the E CVT priced at P684,000, and the G CVT priced at P729,000.

On the other hand, the S-Presso is available in two variants: the GL MT priced at P620,000 and the GL AGS priced at P660,000.

Since the two hatchbacks fall under the same price range, we give this round another tie.

Verdict

Since the S-Presso and the Wigo each won two rounds, we conclude this showdown with a tie. The S-Presso has been known for its unique and stylish exterior as well as its dimensions that make it capable of conquering more challenging road conditions, while the Wigo offers a more modern interior and more advanced safety features.

Whichever car you choose, you will surely turn heads and enjoy the convenience of a compact and efficient vehicle.

Photos from Suzuki, Toyota Motor Philippines, and Roy Robles

Also read:

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