Maruti Suzuki had launched a wide range of new models including the new Brezza, Baleno, Alto K10 and the Grand Vitara in the country in 2022. The company is aiming to expand its SUV portfolio by introducing 2 new models in the next 3-4 months. On the flip side, Hyundai is also preparing to launch an all-new midsize sedan – the new-gen Verna sedan in the country in the second quarter, 2023.
1. Maruti Suzuki Fronx
Maruti Suzuki had showcased the Fronx crossover at the 2023 Auto Expo. The new model will be sold through NEXA premium dealership network. In fact, dealer dispatch of the new model has already been commenced. Interested buyers can book the new crossover online or at authorised dealership by paying a token amount of Rs 11,000. The new model is scheduled to be launched by March-April 2023. It is available in 5 trim levels – Sigma, Delta, Delta+, Zeta and Alpha.
The new Suzuki Fronx will be offered with two engine options – a 1.0-litre Boosterjet petrol and a 1.2-litre Dual-Jet petrol. While the former is good for 100bhp and 147.6Nm of torque, the NA petrol engine churns out 90bhp and 113Nm of torque. The turbo engine is offered with 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox, while the NA unit comes with 5-speed manual or an AMT.
2. Maruti Suzuki Jimny Lifestyle SUV
Unveiled at the 2023 Auto Expo, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door will go on sale in our market by May 2023. The new lifestyle SUV can be booked online or at authorised dealership by paying a token amount of Rs 15,000. It will be retailed through NEXA premium dealership network. The new model will be offered in two trim levels – Zeta and Alpha – and in total of 4 variants. Expected to be priced around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 14 lakh, the new Jimny will rival the Mahindra Thar and the Force Gurkha.
The new Jimny is powered by a 1.5-litre K15B 4-cylinder petrol engine with idle start/stop system for optimum fuel efficiency. This naturally-aspirated petrol engine is capable of producing 103bhp of power and 134.2Nm of torque. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic. It comes with Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4WD system with a manual transfer case and a low-range gearbox with 2WD-high, 4WD-high and 4WD-low modes.
3. Next-gen Hyundai Verna
Hyundai has officially released the teaser images of the upcoming next-gen Verna sedan. In fact, interested buyers can book the sedan online or at authorised dealership by paying a sum of Rs 25,000. It is expected to enter production line in March, while launch is likely in Q2, 2023. The new model will grow in size and will offer more space along with segment-leading features. It will be the first model in its category to offer ADAS tech.
Moreover, the new Verna will be the most powerful in its category. It will come with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.5-litre Turbo GDi petrol. Both engines will be compliant with the upcoming RDE (Real Driving Emission) norms. While the former is good for 115PS and 144Nm of torque, the turbo unit produces 160PS and 250Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT), a CVT with 1.5L petrol and a 7-speed DCT with turbo unit.
