Maruti Suzuki has updated its millennial mobile, the Ignis, with a BS6-spec petrol engine, cosmetic tweaks and a few more features. 2020 Maruti Ignis bookings have opened today across the country.
As part of the update, the Ignis makes the switch to the BS6-spec version of Suzuki’s 1.2-litre K12 engine; 5-speed manual and AMT auto options are on offer, as before. The engine makes the same 83hp and 113Nm of torque as its outgoing BS4 version. We'll have to wait and see if the ARAI mileage has dropped from the BS4 version's 20.89kpl. At the launch, CV Raman, Senior Executive Director, Engineering at Maruti Suzuki India, said that there has been a larger demand for the automatic versions in the past.
In terms of design, the facelift sports new front and rear bumpers – both get faux scuff plates – and a toothy new grille that links the hatchback to the Jimny SUV. Besides the new rear scuff plate, there isn't much to separate the pre-facelift and faclift Ignis from the rear or the side. Maruti has added two new exterior colour options - Lucent Orange and Turquoise Blue - and three new dual-tone colour options - Nexa Blue with black, Lucent Orange with black, and Nexa blue with silver.
The changes to the cabin are more discrete. While the basic design of the dashboard remains unchanged, the 7.0-inch touchscreen gets an upgrade with the shift to Maruti’s latest SmartPlay Studio infotainment system, whch has on-board navigation and responds to voice commands. Suzuki’s S-Connect connectivity suite is also available as an option for the first time on the Ignis.
The Maruti Ignis, with its SUV-like cues, can be clubbed with the Mahindra KUV100 and Ford Freestyle. While the updates help refresh the proposition, the Ignis is likely to remain a niche product in the wider hatchback universe.
All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
