With Maruti's Dzire being based on the same platform as the Baleno, it was speculated that a hotter version of the compact sedan, with the recently introduced 102hp, 1.0-litre Boosterjet from the Baleno RS could be introduced. Maruti, however, has refuted this, stating that it is still testing the waters with the new engine (an imported unit as of now).
The Baleno RS has been selling in the region of 800-1,000 units per month since its launch and the company is satisfied with its performance so far. According to the carmaker, buyers don't expect a sporty driving experience from its sedans and would rather buy sporty hatchbacks instead.
So, while the Dzire may not get the RS moniker, the good news is that the next-gen Swift, due to launch in India next year, could get a sportier variant powered by the Boosterjet engine.
The new Dzire is currently available with Maruti’s tried and tested 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel engines with prices ranging from Rs 5.45 lakh for the entry-level petrol to Rs 9.41 lakh for the top-trim diesel automatic.
(All prices ex-showroom, Delhi)
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