Expect Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) to impart some cosmetic changes to its mid size sedan, the SX4. Test versions of this vehicle, which included the CNG variant, were seen in certain parts of the country. Going by the on-road testing, MSIL may decide to reveal this vehicle in the early part of 2013.
A new front grille with a different chrome plating has been noticed on this vehicle. Headlamps have also been changed, and the SX4 now gets a shorter boot. From the looks of the vehicle, it looks like a Chinese-specification model, since the face lifted version is already present in the Chinese market.
There would be no changes to the engines used by the SX4. It gets 1.6 litre petrol and CNG engines, and a 1.3 litre diesel Multijet engine (sourced from Fiat). The petrol version produces 104.3 bhp and the diesel version produces 88.8 bhp.
Many automobile experts feel that the reason for the low sales of the SX4 is its outdated design. Though the car is well endowed in terms of performance, reaching 0-100 kmph in 12.1 seconds, the vehicle definitely looks dated, compared to the Volkswagen Vento, Honda City and Fiat Linea. As the other vehicles do not have a CNG variant, this is an area where Maruti can definitely score over its competition, by providing better mileage and lesser emissions.
Interior designs in the new vehicle are also expected to remain the same as the older variant. However, one feels that the cosmetic changes may not be adequate to really push the sales of the SX4. A few changes to the interiors may well be appreciated by the Indian customers.
