On the arrival of BSVI emission norms in April 2020, Maruti Suzuki had announced to completely cease production of diesel cars in the country. The company plans to focus on petrol engines along with CNG and hybrid as alternate fuel options. However, new media reports claim that the homegrown UV maker could bring back diesel cars if demand rises in future.
Recent reports claim that Maruti Suzuki will re-introduce the 1.5-litre diesel engine in BSVI avatar. In the BS4 version, this engine produces 94bhp and 225Nm of torque. The first model equipped with this engine is rumoured to be launched in the first quarter of 2022. MSIL is reportedly planning to give diesel engine to bigger models, while the smaller models including hatchbacks and small sedans will continue to be offered with petrol engines.
New Maruti Vitara Brezza
Maruti Suzuki is likely to add the BSVI compliant 1.5L diesel engine to the next-gen Vitara Brezza compact SUV, which is expected to be launched in the first quarter of 2022. It is rumoured to be introduced at the 2022 Auto Expo. The new Brezza will be based on the modified version of the Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform, which will allow MSIL to add advanced connectivity features and a stronger hybrid system.
Maruti XL6
Maruti Suzuki XL6 6-seater crossover-MPV will be the first product to be offered with the diesel engine. The company is reportedly working on this engine for over a year now at its powertrain factory in Manesar (Haryana), which could fill the void of diesel options in its upcoming products. The diesel powered Maruti XL6 is reportedly to be launched around January 2022.
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is most likely to receive diesel engine option, as its direct rivals including Honda City and Hyundai Verna are available with diesel and petrol engine options. It is quite early to comment whether MSIL will add diesel engine in the current model or the next-gen Ciaz.
Maruti Ertiga
Similar to the XL6, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is also likely to get the BSVI compliant 1.5L diesel engine. Maruti would aim to sell the Ertiga diesel to fleet operators. The Ertiga diesel is likely to be introduced in the end of 2022.
Maruti Suzuki mid-sized SUV
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota JV is developing a new mid-sized SUV, which will have two versions. The Maruti Suzuki’s version will have different design and interior; however, both SUVs will share the engine and platform. If reports are to be believed, the new SUV will be based on the Toyota’s DNGA low-cost modular platform. This platform currently underpins the Toyota Raize and the Daihatsu Rocky. The SUV will be positioned against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq and the VW Taigun. It is most likely to be offered with petrol and diesel engine options.
