As reported earlier, Maruti's decision to sell the YBA via ‘standard’ dealers or through Nexa showrooms was unclear. However, sources have now informed us that the company has decided to sell the YBA compact SUV only via regular showrooms.
Although the YBA will sit below the S-Cross in Maruti's line-up, it could have been sold through the Nexa as it is expected to be a premium offering much like the Baleno, and will take on the Ford EcoSport.
Sources, however, indicated to us that the decision of giving Nexa a miss is an appeasement of sorts to the regular dealers who have missed out on the hot-seller Baleno. With the YBA also expected to be a premium offering that will be priced competitively, we are sure dealers would want a slice of this action.
The YBA is a sub-4 metre compact SUV and will feature styling inspired by the Suzuki Vitara sold internationally. It will be powered by Maruti’s existing range of petrol and diesel engines – the 1.2 litre petrol engine and the tried-and-tested Fiat-derived 1.3-litre diesel.
Sergius Barretto