Maruti will finally launch the diesel version of the Suzuki SX4 in the second half February.
The mid-size saloon will use the same Fiat-sourced 90bhp, 1.3 Multi-jet diesel, that powers the Linea and Indigo Manza. However, according to Maruti sources, the SX4 diesel which is estimated to be around 70kg lighter will offer better performance and economy than its rivals.
While the SX4 hatchback in Europe uses Fiat’s 1.9 diesel engines, for India, the 1.3 Multi-jet was considered a more practical choice as it is essentially the same base engine as the one in the Swift and Dzire but with a Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT).
With growing competition from diesel mid-sizers, especially VW Vento, the SX4 which only has a petrol option was under threat. According to company sources, the diesel SX4 could undercut the Vento by around Rs 1lakh. Hence, expect the diesel SX4 to cost around Rs 70,000 more than the existing petrol version.
Uday Singh
Lenny D'sa
Dipan Sur
Glenn Noronha
