In a market obsessed with SUVs like the Tata Punch and Hyundai Creta, something unexpected has happened. The humble sedan is back on top.
The Maruti Suzuki Dzire (still affectionately called the “Swift Dzire” by millions in India) is trending heavily this week. Official sales data released in January 2026 confirms that the Dzire has reclaimed its throne as India’s Best-Selling Car, beating top SUVs in the 2025 annual sales race.
Why are Indian families suddenly rushing back to sedans? Is it the new 5-star safety rating or the premium features? Here is a complete breakdown of why the Dzire is dominating the roads again in 2026.
The Big News: Beating the SUV Trend
For the last few years, compact SUVs have ruled the Indian market. However, the latest data for the Calendar Year 2025 shows a massive shift. The Maruti Dzire sold over 2.14 lakh units, surpassing giants like the Hyundai Creta and Tata Nexon.
This comeback is historic. It proves that Indian buyers still value the comfort, mileage, and “big car feel” of a sedan, especially now that the Dzire has fixed its biggest past weakness: safety.
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Why is Everyone Buying the New Dzire?
The surge in sales is driven by the 4th Generation model (launched recently), which brought three major changes that Indian buyers loved:
1. The 5-Star Safety Revolution
For years, Maruti cars were criticized for build quality. The new Dzire changed that narrative completely by scoring a 5-Star Global NCAP safety rating.
- Standard Safety: It now comes with 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Hill Hold Assist as standard across all variants.
- Impact: This single move brought back safety-conscious family buyers who had previously migrated to Tata or Mahindra.
2. “Big Car” Features (Sunroof & 360 Camera)
Maruti understood that Indians love premium features. The new Dzire became the first in its segment to offer a single-pane electric sunroof.
- It also features a 360-degree camera, making it incredibly easy to park in tight city spots.
- The interior feels more premium with a dual-tone dashboard and a floating 9-inch touchscreen.
3. Unbeatable Mileage (Z-Series Engine)
The 2026 Dzire runs on the new 1.2L Z-Series 3-cylinder engine. While some enthusiasts miss the old 4-cylinder K-series engine for its peppiness, the mass market loves the Z-series for one reason: Efficiency.
- Petrol Mileage: Approx 24.79 kmpl (MT).
- CNG Mileage: A massive 33.73 km/kg.In a time of high fuel prices, these numbers are a goldmine for daily commuters.
Important Alert: Price Hike Incoming?
If you are planning to book the Dzire, you should act fast. Reports indicate that Maruti Suzuki may increase prices or roll back “New Year” discounts starting January 15, 2026.
- Currently, prices range from ₹6.70 Lakh to ₹10.50 Lakh (Ex-showroom), but this could increase by ₹10,000–₹15,000 soon as input costs rise.
Comparison: Dzire vs. The Rivals
| Feature | Maruti Dzire | Honda Amaze | Hyundai Aura |
| Safety | 5-Star (GNCAP) | 2-Star (Old GNCAP) | 2-Star (GNCAP) |
| Sunroof | Yes | No | No |
| CNG Mileage | ~33 km/kg | N/A | ~28 km/kg |
| Engine | 3-Cylinder (Z-Series) | 4-Cylinder (i-VTEC) | 4-Cylinder (Kappa) |
Conclusion: Should You Buy It?
The Maruti Dzire is no longer just a “taxi car.” With a 5-star safety rating, a sunroof, and class-leading mileage, it is arguably the most complete family car package under ₹10 Lakh in 2026. If you want a comfortable ride for your parents and low running costs for yourself, the Dzire is currently unbeatable—proven by the fact that it just beat every SUV in India to become #1.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the Swift Dzire safer now?
Yes, the new generation Maruti Dzire has achieved a 5-Star Global NCAP safety rating and comes with 6 airbags as standard.
Q: Does the new Dzire 2026 have a sunroof?
Yes, the top variants (ZXi and ZXi+) of the new Dzire come with a factory-fitted electric sunroof.
Q: What is the mileage of the Dzire CNG?
The Dzire CNG delivers an impressive mileage of approximately 33.73 km/kg.
Q: Why is it called just “Dzire” and not “Swift Dzire”?
Maruti officially dropped the “Swift” name years ago to separate the sedan brand, but many people still refer to it as the Swift Dzire.
Q: Is the price of Dzire increasing in January 2026?
Yes, reports suggest Maruti Suzuki may hike prices or reduce discounts around mid-January 2026 due to rising costs.
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