Pioneering among the auto makers in India to offer automated manual transmission in its new hatchback, Celerio, India’s largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki India is now contemplating to equip some other vehicles in its portfolio with AMT gearbox. Speculations are rife that MSI could offer it’s A segment mini hatchback, Alto K10 with AMT tranny. Sources close to the development have revealed that the launch of new Alto K10 AMT could happen in the last quarter of fiscal 2014-2015.
MSI’s mini segment has not been doing well of late and availability of AMT in the petite hatchback could help lift its sales in domestic market. The only segment that witnessed growth in last month sales was the compact hatchback segment that too on the back of new Celerio. Hence the auto maker is now eyeing to cash on the rising popularity of the newly inducted transmission by offering it in other vehicles.
The new Alto K10 is expected to borrow design cues from Celerio hatchback. Modifications will also be done inside the cabin and more space will be offered for the comfort of the passengers.Engine set up will remain same; the hatchback will continue to be housed with a 1.0 litre, three cylinder, K-Series engine that yields a maximum power output of 68 PS at 6,200 RPM and top torque of 90 Nm at 3,500 RPM. Current model of Alto K10 is considered to be a frugal option in its segment with 20.92 kms of fuel economy returned in a litre. However, with the AMT gearbox mated to the engine, fuel efficiency is expected to improve a tad.
Besides Alto K10, other Maruti cars will also be offered with AMT transmissions including the highly anticipated Ciaz sedan, flagship Swift hatchback, Dzire compact sedan and Wagon R hatchback.
