It is no secret that Maruti Suzuki is working on a mini SUV for the Indian market. This new model was first previewed at the 2018 Delhi Auto Expo as the Concept Future S. It is reportedly to be called the new-generation “Maruti Suzuki ZEN”, however, Maruti is yet to make an official announcement. Testing of the new model has already been commenced, while the launch is likely in the second half of 2019 before Diwali festive season.
Codenamed Y1K, the new Maruti ZEN will come in the form of a micro SUV. This model will directly rival the likes of Mahindra KUV100 NXT, Renault Kwid, Hyundai Santro and the upcoming Tata H2X concept based small SUV. The new model will be based on the Suzuki’s New-gen HEARTECT platform that also underpins the new Wagon R hatchback. To be positioned below the Vitara Brezza, the new small SUV will be future ready with electrification option right from the word go.
The new Maruti Suzuki ZEN will have an upright stance, high ground clearance and aggressive design. The new model has been indigenously designed in India by the company’s R&D team. Some of the design highlights will include LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, thin chrome grille, and large and sporty front bumper. The concept had sloping-type roofline; except the same sportier styling in the production version as well.
The new Maruti Y1K crossover will be offered with a fairly loaded cabin. The top-spec model is likely to get a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, multi-functional steering wheel, automatic climate control, etc. The new model is likely to be positioned somewhere between the Celerio and the Swift hatchback in terms of pricing. We believe that the new model could cost around Rs 4.5 lakh – Rs 7 lakh. Also See – Maruti Wagon R 7-seater MPV launch in June 2019
The upcoming Maruti ZEN mini SUV is likely to be offered with 2 engine options – a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol and a 1.2-litre K-series petrol. While the former is good for 67bhp and 91Nm, the 1.2L engine produces 83bhp and 115Nm of torque. It is expected that the new model will receive the BSVI compliant petrol engine. The company has already announced that it will phase out diesel cars from the market by April 2020. Both manual and AMT versions are likely to be on offer.
Video – Maruti Suzuki Future S Concept Preview
