Maruti Suzuki has revealed its plans for the upcoming 2012 Auto Expo.
The big news for the small-car giant will be its aggressive entry into the UV segment with two models – both of which will be showcased at the Expo in New Delhi.
First up will be the global unveiling of Maruti’s first compact MPV, the Ertiga. As originally seen in our spy images, the Ertiga looks similar to the Swift from the front, with peeled-back headlights that stretch to the pronounced wheel arches. The rear treatment looks well proportioned, if rather generic in comparison. The Ertiga will seat seven and will come with petrol and diesel engine options.
Along with the Ertiga, Maruti will also showcase a compact SUV concept. Both these new models are the result of a joint effort between Maruti Suzuki in India and Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan. According to Maruti, the compact SUV concept has been designed in a record time of just nine months.
“As the market gets more competitive, we have to gear up for the new dynamics. We are thus showing the best we can offer. The new models like the SUV, MPV and MUV will prove to the world that we are future-ready. We need to get first-hand feedback for this,” says Maruti Suzuki managing executive officer marketing and sales, Mayank Pareek.
Maruti will also add another engine to its popular K-series family - the K14. As the name suggests, the K14 is a 1.4-litre petrol motor that is equipped with variable-valve timing (VVT). It will displace 1372cc and deliver a decent 95bhp. The Ertiga will debut this new engine, but will also be available with a 1.3-litre DDiS ‘Super Turbo’ diesel engine.
Some of parent company Suzuki’s international compact cars – like the Solio, Palette and MR Wagon – will also be on display at Maruti’s Auto Expo stand, which Pareek says are intended to “study consumer feedback."
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
Saptarshi Mondal
