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The Suzuki S-presso will make for a great first car and here’s why

Suzuki’s latest offering could be the best choice for first-time car buyers.

Earl Lee on Apr 08, 2020

A first car should be something that is just an easy car to buy, own, and drive. When getting your first automobile, you have to make quite a few considerations before buying because the unit will be with you for a long time. So you have to make sure that you get something that will last you a long time, meet your needs, and give you satisfaction in the process. There are several cars that we can list, but the one that stands out to us is the new Suzuki S-presso.

We haven’t gotten to review it yet, but as it stands, and based on how well small Suzuki cars do in our road tests, things are looking good for this small crossover. Now, it may not be the best first car for everyone, but here are just some of the reasons as to why it may be a great first car for newbie drivers.

It’s a manual

Shifting through gears on your own is a character-building experience. It makes you learn and develop mechanical sympathy in one way or another. Driving a stick shift is a dying art, and most car models are moving away from the three-pedal transmission, which is a shame. However, the Suzuki S-presso only comes with a 5-speed manual transmission variant, which is a surprising change of pace from the models that only feature automatic transmissions.

Ground clearance

It goes without saying, but the condition of Philippine roads isn’t quite the best. This makes people who are driving in the city want more ground clearance to avoid pesky potholes and dastardly divots on the road. That’s where the Suzuki S-presso has an edge over other cars that are in the running to be your first car. Ground clearance makes driving around the city less stressful, and one less thing to worry about is always better, especially to a new driver.

Another benefit that you get with added ground clearance is you get a nicer view of the road, and a better presence because you are riding taller. You also get to see more of the road and your front end while sitting more upright, which is great for beginners.

It has a manageable size and weight

When you’re a first-time driver, it is inadvisable for you to hit the ground running and get into a larger car. Though many have done it with much success, there are some that need to ease into the idea of piloting something big. Driving is more than just looking forward, it also involves spatial awareness. Smaller vehicles are often easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. It is also light enough that you won’t struggle with its steering wheel, which means that you won’t have to worry too much about overexerting yourself just to make a turn.

The price

When it comes down to it, the S-presso may not be the most feature-packed car out on the market, but it does come with a surprising feature that both new and old drivers can appreciate, and that is the price. For P518,000, it undercuts several rivals that also serve as good options as a first car. It trounces other subcompact sedans and even small hatchbacks that are priced upwards of about P600,000. It’s not a bad bargain if you ask us.