Cars in Pakistan are generally considered expensive compared to the rest of the world. That’s because of the taxes that are comparatively higher in Pakistan.
However ironically even after paying a higher price, we still don’t get the features that are offered in international markets. Furthermore the quality is yet to reach the export standards.
Ever since the Auto Policy 2016-21 was implemented, the automobile industry have witnessed some dramatic change while the existing players are in process of improving their game. Earlier this year Pak Suzuki, country’s largest auto manufacturer introduced imported Ciaz sedan and Vitara SUV while replaced their two decade old Cultus with Celerio hatchback.
Related: Celerio Facelift Launched in India
The Celerio was renamed as Cultus exclusively for Pakistan, and was priced at PKR 12.5 lac for VXR and PKR 13.91 lac for flagship VXL variant. Although the VXL trim comes equipped with ABS and Airbags, still the price is high considering the fact that internationally the Celerio comes cheaper than the WagonR and offers certain features that aren’t offered with the PKR 13.9 lac VXL variant. Such as:
Rear Windshield Wiper
Internationally the Celerio comes with a rear windshield wiper which is useful since hatchbacks tend to develop more turbulence at the back due to absence of trunk. In rainy conditions it can accumulate a lot of dirt & mud on the rear window because of which hatchbacks are often equipped with rear wipers. Both the local Cultus variants misses out this feature.
Beige Interior
Local Cultus comes with gray color interior which gives a rather dull look to the interior. Internationally the Celerio also comes with a Beige color coded interior, something that’s also offered with PakSuzuki WagonR, and makes the interior look surprisingly better and roomier. The Beige color should be offered in VXL trim to further justify the price tag.
Multi-function Steering Wheel
The Celerio comes with a multi functional steering wheel that is equipped with multimedia, Bluetooth and call receiving functions. The Pak Suzuki version comes without one.
AMT Transmission
The most important missing feature is the semi automatic transmission, the AMT- that’s offered with international Celerio models. This clutchless transmission allows the driver to switch between manual and automatic gear shifts, whenever desired. The local Cultus comes with manual transmission only.
Rear Parking Sensors
The high-end Celerio versions are also equipped with proximity parking sensors which alert the driver to obstacles while reversing the vehicle. This useful feature also remain absent in the flagship Cultus VXL version.
Related: Limited Edition Celerio Launched in India
In India the top-of-the-line Celerio ZXi AMT with all the above advantages is priced at INR 5.4 lac which translates into PKR 8.6 lac only.
If PakSuzuki can manage to add these features to their flagship Cultus VXL version, it might give them an edge over the competitors which are stretching their muscles to make an entry in our market soon.
Do you think these features should be offered with the Pak Suzuki Cultus VXL?
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
