Maruti launched the Ignis in January 2017 – its second hatchback sold via the Nexa premium channel – with two engine and gearbox options. While most Maruti products, especially hatchbacks, are known to sell in large numbers, the Ignis has been a bit of a slow-seller for the manufacturer, with the diesel-powered variant attracting fewer buyers.
While the Ignis does have a spacious cabin, dual-tone interiors, Maruti’s latest SmartPlay infotainment system and the goods, its quirky exterior styling and steep pricing (for the diesel variant) have been major deterrents to sales.
According to various reports on the internet, production of the diesel-powered Ignis has been stopped, while the petrol variant is still on sale with both gearbox options. There is no official comment from Maruti on this development, but the few dealers we spoke to in Mumbai, Delhi, Ludhiana and Chennai confirmed that they are not accepting fresh bookings for the Ignis diesel and are only pushing unsold stock by offering discounts of up to Rs 65,000.
Dealers also tell us that the Ignis diesel production "could be on hold for the time being" so that they get additional time to clear unsold inventory.
For this year, Maruti has two new launches lined up. First, we can expect the refreshed Ciaz with Smart Hybrid tech (petrol) to hit Nexa showrooms soon. This will be followed by the all-new Ertiga which will be sold via the Maruti Arena dealerships.