The leading car maker of India, Maruti Suzuki is flexing its muscles with a huge line-up of upcoming models that will compete in the hatchback segment. The growth prospects of Maruti Suzuki in the Indian car market are mainly driven by the revenues generated from its hatchback cars, which are extremely popular among the Indian consumers. As told by sources, the company is planning to add newer models to its inventory in order to silent any existent competition. Models like Stingray, Alto 800 diesel , WagonR diesel and Solio are reported to make inroads any time soon in the Indian car market.
This claim is evident from the fact that Maruti Suzuki recently launched Stingray model. It is provided in a 1.0-litre petrol engine as seen in existing WagonR apart from deriving power through its 5-speed manual transmission. The car is capable of generating a peak output of 67 bhp while reaching a maximum torque of 90 Nm. In terms of pricing, Stingray is placed at range of Rs.4.09 lakh to Rs.4.67 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and will offer competition to arch-rival Hyundai's upcoming model named Grand i10.
It is also believed that the sole reason for not launching the diesel variant of Stingray could have been the introduction of WagonR diesel, which is expected to roll out in the Indian car market by the festive season. According to Industry sources, the newly developed lighter diesel engine shall have an 800 cc displacement. This locally built 5-speed manual transmission turbo diesel engine can also be seen on entry level A-star model. All it means is Maruti Suzuki may introduce diesel engines in almost all its current line-up of cars whether it be entry level or compact segment.
Alto 800 too will see a overhaul in India and is likely to feature in a diesel variant besides the flagship petrol variant. The car is expected to carry the same engine that is likely to feature in WagonR diesel having a displacement of 800 cc mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Alto 800 has been one of the best selling cars for Maruti Suzuki and with rumours doing the rounds of Alto getting a diesel engine, it will further help to strengthen the position of the company in entry-level compact car segment.
It is also reported that a new model named Solio will be showcased by the leading car manufacturer at the next year's Auto Expo to be held in Delhi. Solio is designed mainly as Multi-Purpose Vehicle aimed giving better spacing options for passengers. In foreign markets, the car is equipped with a 1.2-litre petrol engine capable of producing a maximum output of 90 bhp. As far as the transmission of the car is concerned, it is available in a CVT gearbox in the Japanese market and going by the tide of things, the car might be launched in India with the same engine as given in Japan.
