Maruti Suzuki is preparing a wide range of new SUVs for the Indian market. This year, the company will launch the new Brezza and an all-new mid-sized SUV – codenamed Maruti YFG. Adding to it, MSIL is preparing an SUV Coupe, codenamed YTB and a 5-door Jimny. The company is also reportedly working on an all-new 7-seater SUV to rival the likes of the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700.
In fact, Suzuki and Toyota JV is also working on a new electric SUV for the Indian as well as global markets. The new model will be based on the 27PL platform, which is a different derivative of Toyota’s 40PL architecture. The new model will be positioned against the likes of the MG ZS EV and the Hyundai Kona EV.
Maruti YFG Mid-Sized SUV
Maruti Suzuki’s mid-sized SUV, codenamed YFG will be launched before the end of this year, most probably around Diwali. It is jointly developed by Toyota-Suzuki JV, and will have two different versions – Toyota’s version codenamed D22 and Maruti’s version, codenamed YFG.
The new SUV will be produced at Toyota’s Bidadi based plant. The Maruti YFG mid-sized SUV will be based on Toyota’s low-cost DNGA (Daihatsu New Generation Architecture) platform. This platform currently underpins multiple Toyota and Daihatsu products including the Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky and the new Toyota Avanza.
The new Maruti YFG will share styling cues from the global Toyota SUVs including the Corolla Cross. However, the front design is expected to share similarities with the Suzuki A-Cross that’s the re-badged Toyota RAV4 in European markets. The latest spy images suggest that the new mid-sized SUV gets split headlamp set-up with A-Cross inspired LED DRLs positioned on top. The front grille design will also have similarities with the new Baleno and the upcoming Ertiga facelift. The SUV will have sqaured-off wheel arches and sits high with expected ground clearance of over 200mm. It rides on large 17-inch chunky wheels.
Interior details are yet to be revealed; however, the spy shots suggest that the cabin layout could share similarities with the Toyota Corolla Cross. It is likely to get a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system with wireless connectivity, automatic AC, multi-functional steering wheel, digital instrument console and electrically adjustable driver’s seat. The SUV could also get ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot monitoring and a collision warning system.
The upcoming Maruti YFG mid-sized SUV will feature Toyota’s ‘Strong Hybrid’ petrol engine, which will be similar to the one offered in the Camry sedan. The engine will work in conjuction with a small electric motor, which will allow the SUV to run solely on electric power for short distances. This will make it more fuel efficient than the competition. Not just hybrid powertrain, Maruti YFG is also likely to get the 1.5L K15B petrol engine with SHVS mild hybrid tech. Transmission options are likely to include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
