Maruti Suzuki Celerio ZXi AMT launched at Rs 4.99 lakh

Maruti Suzuki has launched the Celerio ZXi AMT variant in India to commemorate the first anniversary of the launch of the popular B-segment hatchback. Priced at Rs 4.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), this new top-end variant comes equipped with the highly publicised AMT gearbox (automated manual transmission), a feature which had been missing in the standard ZXi trim since the car’s launch at the 2014 Delhi Auto Expo. 

Mechanically, the Celerio ZXi AMT is identical to the VXi AMT, and is powered by the same 1.0-litre three-pot K-series petrol engine, which produces 67bhp and 90Nm of torque. The engine sends power to the front wheels through the AMT transmission, which is sourced from the Italian automotive component manufacturer, Magneti Marelli. Maruti Suzuki claims an efficiency of 23.1kmpl for the AMT variants of the Celerio, which makes it one of the most fuel-efficient hatchbacks in the country. 

The Celerio ZXi AMT, being a top-end variant, comes fully loaded with a host of creature comforts. The car’s exhaustive feature list includes a four-speaker two-DIN audio system with Bluetooth, CD, USB and AUX-in support, electrically adjustable ORVMs, keyless entry system, steering mounted audio controls, driver side airbags and body-coloured wing mirrors and bumpers. 

With the addition of this new top-end variant, Maruti Suzuki is expecting a 30 per cent to 40 per cent bump in the Celerio’s sales numbers. The Celerio rivals other B-segment hatchbacks like the Hyundai i10, Nissan Micra Active and the Honda Brio.