Maruti Suzuki Readying Mid-Sized SUV to Rival Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta
After conquering the entry-level and affordable car segments, Maruti Suzuki is now looking to make in-roads in the relatively premium and expensive segment. The company is readying 2 new models, which will be priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh. Maruti Suzuki is working on an all-new mid-sized SUV, which will be based on the current Vitara Brezza’s C platform. For people not in the know, the Suzuki’s C architecture also underpins the global Suzuki Vitara.
The heavily localised C platform will allow Maruti Suzuki to price the new SUV competitively in the market. Not just Maruti, Toyota will also launch an all-new SUV based on the Maruti’s mid-sized SUV. What’s more interesting is that the new SUV will be produced at the Toyota’s Bidadi plant.
It is expected that Maruti Suzuki will launch the new SUV in both 5 and 7-seat option and later is likely to be called the Grand Vitara. The new model will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the Nissan Kicks. The report claims that the new SUV will be launched in the Indian market in 2022. A possible debut at the 2022 Auto Expo can’t be ignored.
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota will also produce an all-new C-segment MPV, which will be launched in the country in 2023. The new MPV is also expected to be unveiled at the 2020 Auto Expo. Similar to the mid-sized SUV, this MPV will be produced at the Toyota’s Bidadi plant. Unlike the re-badged Baleno and Vitara Brezza, the new mid-sized SUV and the MPV under development will have different design and names to ensure that both Maruti Suzuki and Toyota gain from India’s growing demand for utility vehicles.
Details about the engine specifications are still under cover. However, it is confirmed that Maruti Suzuki is seriously considering re-introducing the 1.5-litre diesel engine. Adding to it, the Indo-Japanese brand is also developing an all-new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This engine is likely to produce around 120bhp of power. The company is currently offering the 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine with Ertiga, Brezza and the Ciaz.
