Maruti Suzuki is aiming to regain the lost market share by introducing a wide range of new SUVs. The company’s market share in the passenger vehicle segment dropped to 44.7 percent in December 2021. This is due to lack of new product and global semi-conductor chip shortage.
A new media report claims that the company is planning to launch around 6 new SUVs in the next 3 years. The report further claims that Maruti Suzuki will launch a new mid-sized SUV measuring about 4.4 meters in length. The new mid-sized SUV and the new Jimny lifestyle SUV will be launched in the next fiscal year.
The new mid-sized SUV will be jointly developed by Maruti Suzuki and Toyota JV. The new model is likely to be based on Toyota’s DNGA (Daihatsu New Generation Architecture) platform that underpins the new Raize subcompact SUV and the new Avanza 3-row MPV. The new model will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos.
The new Maruti Suzuki mid-sized SUV is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine with a stronger hybrid system. In the current form, this powertrain produces 104bhp and 138Nm of torque. The company could also opt for the 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine that powers the Swift Sport. Both manual and automatic gearbox options will be on offer.
India’s largest carmaker will plan to launch a long-wheelbase version of the Jimny off-roader. The new model will ride on 300mm longer wheelbase and will be 300mm longer than the Sierra. It is likely to be powered by a 1.5L K15B petrol engine with SHVS mild hybrid system. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic.
Maruti Suzuki will also launch the new Vitara Brezza in the second half of 2022. Adding to it, the company is also preparing a coupe SUV based on the lightweight HEARTECT platform. Set to rival the high-spec variants of the Hyundai Venue and the Kia Seltos, the new model will be equipped with a stronger hybrid system.
It is reported that the company is also preparing a 7-seater SUV to rival the likes of the Hyundai Alcazar and the Tata Safari. Previous reports claim that the company is also considering a sub-compact SUV to rival the Tata Punch.
