Maruti Suzuki had launched two new SUVs – the new Brezza and the Grand Vitara in the country in 2022. These two SUVs have received positive response from the buyers, as both commands a waiting period of up to 6 months. The Indo-Japanese automaker aims to grab more market share in the SUV segment, which is currently dominated by Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki.
In order to further improve sales, Maruti Suzuki is now ready to launch two new SUVs in the country in 2023. The company will launch a new SUV Coupe, internally codenamed YTB and the Jimny 5-door lifestyle SUV. Both SUVs will sit under 4 meters in length and will cost under Rs 10 lakh. This will be the brand’s third SUV measuring under 4 meters.
The Maruti YTB SUV Coupe and the Jimny 5-door lifestyle SUV are scheduled to make their global debut at the 2023 Auto Expo in January. While the YTB SUV Coupe is expected to be launched in the first quarter of 2023, the Jimny LWB will go on sale by mid-2023. In fact, Maruti Suzuki could also announce the prices of the YTB SUV Coupe at the Indian auto expo.
The YTB SUV Coupe will be based on the lightweight heartect platform that underpins the new Baleno hatchback. Its design will be inspired by the Futuro-e concept, which was displayed at the 2020 Auto Expo. The front fascia is likely to share the styling with the Grand Vitara, featuring a sharply designed nose with wider grille and chrome strips, along with split headlamp setup with slim LED DRLs & the 3-block NEXA signature. The new model will have pronounced wheel arches, black side cladding, a coupe-like roofline and raised suspension.
The cabin layout and features will be shared with the Baleno hatchback. To be sold through NEXA dealership network, the new YTB SUV Coupe or the Baleno Cross will rival the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger and the Hyundai Venue/Kia Sonet. It will be powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder Boosterjet turbo petrol engine with mild hybrid tech. The lower variants could also get a 1.2L Dualjet petrol engine.
The Jimny 5-door will be based on the modified ladder-on-frame chassis. Compared to the 3-door Jimny Sierra, the new 5-door model will ride on 300mm longer wheelbase and will offer more space inside the cabin and bigger boot. It is likely to be powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine that produces 102bhp and 130Nm of torque. The engine could be benefitted with Suzuki’s mild hybrid tech, which will improve its fuel efficiency and reduce emission levels. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. The SUV will come with Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4WD system with a manual transfer case and low range.
