The Maruti YBA sub 4-metre compact SUV will be positioned against the Ford EcoSport in the segment and will hit showrooms by early 2016.
Maruti Suzuki’s product onslaught over the next few years will see the launch of a variety of models spread across different segments. While the Indian auto giant is all set to enter the compact SUV space with the S-Cross by end of January next year, there is also a sub 4-metre compact SUV in the works that will be positioned below the S-Cross and will be rivaling the Ford EcoSport, Fiat Avventura and the likes in the segment. With the model scheduled to hit showrooms by early 2016, the YBA (codename) sub 4-metre compact SUV was spotted testing once again taking inspiration from the iV4 concept that also defines the new Vitara SUV.
Enveloped in heavy camouflage, the design on the YBA is simplistic with straight body panels. The front fascia is expected to be similar to the new Vitara launched internationally, while the glass house area is large and reminiscent of the XA Alpha SUV concept that was showcased at the Auto Expo in 2012. In terms of powertrain, early reports suggest that Maruti was expected to bring in a new Fiat sourced 1.5-litre diesel engine that would produce around 100 HP of power. However, the new report states that the existing 1.3-litre DDiS diesel also sourced from Fiat will continue to be on offer producing the same tune (90 PS) as seen on the Ciaz.
In addition, Maruti Suzuki will also offer the 1.2-litre K-Series petrol motor on the YBA sub 4-metre compact SUV that is good for around 87 PS and will help evade additional excise duty. We do expect Maruti to offer the 1.5-litre diesel unit at a later stage across its entire range. To be feature rich, the YBA will come loaded with Suzuki’s AllGrip All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that is most likely to debut on the upcoming S-Cross and will have with a highly competitive price tag that is sure to push volumes. The launch is expected at the 2016 Auto Expo in the country and could be called the Maruti iV4.
Source – Gaadiwaadi on Twitter
