India’s beloved carmaker, Maruti Suzuki is betting big for 2014 by uplifting their current product portfolio with all new products. In a few days time, we will see a new hatchback, Maruti Celerio replacing the Maruti A-Star and Zen Estilo. Later this year, Maruti Suzuki plans to introduce the Ciaz (codenamed YL1). The Maruti Ciaz is a mid-size C-segment sedan that will be launched as a replacement to the ageing SX4. The Maruti Ciaz is derived from the Suzuki Authentics Concept, which was showcased at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show.
In terms of styling, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz will be introduced with a new design language that looks sleek, contemporary and premium. On the inside, you can expect good quality materials, spacious cabin and loads of features. The Maruti Ciaz will get two engine options that include a 1.4-litre K-series petrol that currently does duty on the Maruti Ertiga and the other one is expected to be a Fiat sourced 1.6-litre MultiJet diesel engine. India’s largest carmaker is considering to launch the Maruti Ciaz later this year, during the festive season.
Initial volumes targeted by Maruti Suzuki from Ciaz are 50,000 units a year including exports. CKD kits of the Maruti Ciaz will be exported from India to China, West Asia and Africa. Currently, the C-segment is seeing a stiff competition with the likes of Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid. At present, the Hyundai Verna is leading the segment and very soon we will see the new Honda City climbing the charts. We hope Maruti Suzuki is prepared enough to create a buzz in this segment with its value for money proposition.
The Maruti Ciaz is expected to be unveiled at the upcoming 2014 Auto Expo but given the fact that the launch is still some time away, the vehicle might not be showcased at the biennial event. Maruti is struggling to sell the SX4 and if the Ciaz is showcased so early, the remaining units of the SX4 will be very difficult to sell. Maruti’s Auto Expo showcase is among the biggest so there is still some hope of the Ciaz making its debut in concept form at the motor show.
Source – Financial Express
