The Maruti Suzuki Celerio has long been recognized as one of India’s most fuel-efficient and budget-friendly hatchbacks. It’s compact, light, and perfect for city use — but can it handle long highway journeys just as well? If you’re planning weekend getaways or family trips, here’s a closer look at how the Celerio performs on long drives and what makes it a surprisingly capable travel companion.
Engine and Performance on Highways
The Celerio is powered by Maruti Suzuki’s advanced 1.0-litre DualJet Dual VVT petrol engine, which produces around 66 bhp and 89 Nm of torque. While the figures may seem modest on paper, the engine’s tuning is designed for smooth and consistent performance rather than outright power.
On highways, the Celerio can comfortably maintain cruising speeds between 80 to 100 km/h, making it ideal for intercity drives. The Auto Gear Shift (AGS) variant adds convenience during traffic or hill climbs, while the manual transmission gives more control for those who prefer traditional gear shifting.
Thanks to its lightweight build and efficient power delivery, the Celerio offers a relaxed, easy-to-drive experience even on longer routes.
Ride Comfort and Stability
Comfort is key for long journeys, and the Celerio performs impressively within its segment. The suspension system absorbs minor bumps and uneven roads with ease, ensuring passengers enjoy a reasonably smooth ride.
The car’s high seating position provides good visibility, which helps reduce driver fatigue over extended distances. The ergonomically designed seats offer decent support for the back and thighs, and the cabin layout makes it easy to access essential controls even during long hours behind the wheel.
While the Celerio is not designed for sporty performance, it delivers balanced handling and stability on straight stretches and moderate curves. Keeping speeds reasonable ensures optimal comfort and control, especially when fully loaded.
Fuel Efficiency Advantage
One of the biggest advantages of the Celerio is its exceptional mileage. On long drives, the petrol variant delivers around 25–26 km/l, while the CNG version can achieve close to 35 km/kg under steady driving conditions.
This makes it one of the most economical options for long road trips. The fuel tank capacity of 32 litres means you can cover well over 700 kilometres in a single refill, reducing the need for frequent stops.
Space and Practicality
Despite its compact size, the Celerio surprises with practical interior space. There’s enough legroom for four adults, and the 313-litre boot offers adequate space for weekend luggage. The rear seats can be folded if you need to carry extra bags or gear.
Smart storage compartments for bottles, snacks, and small gadgets make life easier on long trips. The air conditioning performs well, and the infotainment system with Bluetooth, USB, and smartphone connectivity adds convenience and entertainment during travel.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a priority during long drives, and the Celerio comes equipped with essential protective features such as dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and seatbelt reminders. The sturdy chassis and lightweight HEARTECT platform contribute to better stability and impact absorption.
Being a Maruti Suzuki model, the Celerio also benefits from the brand’s wide service network and reputation for reliability — a huge reassurance for anyone driving long distances. You’re never too far from a service station, which adds peace of mind for family trips or spontaneous getaways.
Things to Keep in Mind
While the Celerio performs well on highways, keeping a few points in mind ensures a smoother experience:
- Maintain moderate speeds for best mileage and comfort.
- Keep tyre pressure in check before long journeys.
- Plan occasional breaks to stretch and rest on very long routes.
- For hilly terrains or fully loaded trips, using the manual variant may offer better control.
These simple precautions can make your long-distance drives with the Celerio more enjoyable and stress-free.
Final Verdict
So, is the Celerio good for long drives? Absolutely — especially if you value mileage, comfort, and reliability over raw power. It may not be a performance car, but it offers steady cruising, low running costs, and dependable comfort for family road trips or weekend escapes.
With its efficient engine, practical cabin, and trusted Maruti Suzuki engineering, the Celerio proves that even compact hatchbacks can deliver enjoyable long-distance journeys.
To explore variants, book a test drive, or discover the latest offers on the Maruti Suzuki Celerio, visit Popular Maruti, one of Kerala’s most trusted Maruti Suzuki dealerships offering complete sales, service, and expert advice for your next road trip companion.
