Suzuki releases video of A:Wind Concept car; production version likely to be next generation A-Star

Suzuki has a released a video of its new A:Wind concept hatchback. It is almost certain that this, in its production form, will be the next generation Maruti Suzuki A-Star for India and Alto for global markets. The A:Wind concept car shares much of its design with the Alto test mule that was spotted testing in Europe in RHD configuration and shod with JK Vectras.

The A:Wind Concept car is 3.6 metres in length (2.4 metres wheelbase), 1.6 metres wide and 1.5 metres high. It has the same new grille as the test car but now it is noticeable that it extends into the glass for the headlights, which seem to be projectors.

The body now comes with an increased number of aerodynamic lines but retains the same overall shape that has defined the Alto range since its debut in 1979. The bumpers look sportier and the front air intake has also been increased in size, most probably to aid in the cooling of the new 800cc diesel engine due for the Indian market next year.

The interiors get a two-tone design with beige being of one of the shades. It has all the characteristic Suzuki traits and parts that can be found on the other models of the Japanese automaker. However, thanks to the altered design of the components of the cabin and what appears to be a flat floor, the new car looks much more spacious than the outgoing model. The cabin may get a touch screen music system but this will mostly be limited to the European markets and that too only in the top-end variants.

It is powered by a 996cc petrol mill that is expected to produce 68bhp and 79Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox. However, in markets like India, we can also expect that the car will be offered with a five-speed manual. The Indian market is also expected to get an 800cc diesel engine being developed by Suzuki themselves.

We expect that most of the design features seen in the pictures will make their way to the production vehicle when it is launched. While the press release says that it will be produced and exported from Thailand next year, it’s almost certain that this will be the next money spinner to emerge from the dry lands of Manesar. Suzuki is expected to launch this car by the middle of next year and will most probably have the global debut in India like they did for the A-Star in 2008.