Suzuki’s five-seat, small MPV has been spotted testing in India near Maruti’s plant in Manesar. This isn’t the first time the Solio has been seen in India as the brand had showcased the previous model at the Auto Expo 2012 – although that had a seven-seat layout. The spied Solio is a strict five-seater but comes with sliding doors for the rear passengers.
In the Japanese market, the Solio is powered by the eponymous 1.2-litre K12 engine, though like the Swift sold in that market, it comes with the option of a hybrid set-up. The combined output of this petrol-hybrid set-up is 91hp, with 118Nm of peak torque. The hybrid engine comes with a five-speed AMT gearbox as standard, while the mild hybrid and standard engines are mated to a CVT gearbox. Four-wheel-drive is also offered on the mild hybrid and standard engines.
While there is no word on Maruti bringing the Solio to India, the model could be showcased at the Auto Expo 2018, where it could form a part of Maruti Suzuki’s hybrid technology display.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
