It was a well-known fact that Maruti Suzuki was in the process of phasing out all diesel models before the implementation of the BS6 emission norms. Now, ahead of the April 1 deadline, the diesel variants of the Ciaz have been discontinued, with the model removed from Maruti's website as well. We can also confirm that dealers have stopped accepting bookings for the diesel Ciaz.

Two engine options were part of the Ciaz diesel line-up. There was the tried-and-tested 90hp, 1.3-litre Multijet unit that was paired with a mild-hybrid system and a 5-speed manual gearbox, and an in-house developed 95hp, 1.5-litre unit coupled to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Production in India for the Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre unit was ceased earlier this year. The unit was considered to be the 'national diesel engine of India' and it powered 24 different cars and SUVs from no less than five carmakers. In contrast, the in-house developed 1.5-litre diesel engine only ever found its way in two models – the Ciaz and Ertiga – and had a very short lifespan of just over a year. However, Maruti may consider upgrading the 1.5 unit to BS6 standards in the future should there be a demand for it.

From now on, the Ciaz sedan will be available with just a 105hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech that’s shared with the Ertiga, the XL6 and now the Vitara Brezza facelift, and S-cross. The engine can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

Maruti Suzuki recently introduced a new top-spec Ciaz S, priced at Rs 10.08 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The carmaker is also set to launch the S-cross and Vitara Brezza petrols in the coming weeks.