Maruti Suzuki to introduce seven new models by 2019

Maruti Suzuki looks set to upgrade its entire lineup over the course of the next two years. It will introduce new models or upgrade the current lot of vehicles thereby updating the range over the course of the next two years. We believe that there will be seven models in their stable and here is what to expect from each of them.

Next generation Alto
The next generation Maruti Suzuki Alto is expected to arrive in 2018 and is expected to be a major update as the model will be almost 20 years old making it the longest running name plate in India.  We believe that the Alto range (both 800 and K10) will move to the Ignis platform but retain the same core values that have defined the model range since it was introduced to India in 1983. Expect the car to retain the same silhouette but with a new design and feature list.

Alto Cross
With the popularity of SUV and crossover body style, it only seems logical that Maruti Suzuki introduce a vehicle with this design across all parts of the market where it has a presence. We believe that this vehicle will be called the Alto Cross and sport design traits similar to what we have seen on its rival, the Renault Kwid. This includes tall wheels, high ground clearance and crossover design. Expect engines and features from the next generation Alto.

Swift
We recently saw the Japanese market next-generation Swift being launched their market. Our Indian Swift will sport similar design traits but be underpinned by the same platform as the Baleno. Expect it to continue with the same engines but an upgraded feature and safety list as compared to the current Swift which has been on sale since 2011.

Dzire
The Swift will undergo a generational change and so will its compact sedan sibling the Dzire. It will sport the new Swift’s design philosophy, engines, underpinnings and even the feature list. However, given the premium that sedans hold over hatchbacks, we expect this to get a few more features at the back like the rear AC vents, adjustable head rests and an arm rest with cup holders.

Wagon R
Just like the Swift hatchback, the Wagon R too underwent a generational change in Japan. There is a revised design, features, safety options for this sixth-generation tallboy but it retains the familiar shape that has defined the range since 1993. We in India will get the revised design and feature list but retain the same engine and underpinnings as the current car.

Ciaz facelift
The Ciaz has finally been the major success that Maruti Suzuki had been struggling for more than ever in the C-segment. Now with the product having completed three years in India, there will be a mid-life update. This, most importantly, will fit the car with the 1.6-litre DDiS 320 engine from the S-Cross and most probably with an updated feature list. Expect to see it on our roads later this year.

S-Cross facelift    
The Japanese automaker’s flagship crossover after stumbling for more than a year has finally settled into a numbers rhythm and is doing over 1000 units a month. By the middle of next year, we expect that they will introduce the facelifted S-Cross that was shown for the European market in 2016. Given the spurt in demand, it is possible that this model will also be offered with a petrol engine which in this case will be a slightly more powerful version of the 1.4-litre K-Series engine found in the Ertiga and Ciaz.