Maruti Suzuki has been teasing the Future S concept since before the Expo. Envisaged in India and developed locally, the Future S concept paves way for a new SUV to be added to the Maruti Suzuki portfolio. The Future S will spawn a mini-SUV, if we may call it that, something that will be positioned under the Vitara Brezza and above the Swift.
Maruti has taken an interesting design take on this concept because inspite of its small dimensions, they are still focussing on the SUV shape. For something that might measure about 3800mm in length, similar to the Swift, getting the proportions of the SUV right was always going to be challenging, especially for a four-door layout.
But the high bonnet, imposing looks and tall seating along with the minimal overhangs ensure that it gets the SUV feel. The muscular rear haunches might not make it to the production version, but they certainly indicate a Brezza-esque top hat with flared wheel arches defining the profile. The A-pillars get a special treatment and have been designed to give a floating feel for the roof.
The concept gets vibrant interiors with a wrap around design for the dash which is dominated by a touchscreen in the centre. The Human Machine Interface shows us the infotainment system that we can expect in years to come. Being developed on the Heartech platform, there is enough space inside, despite the petite dimensions.
In terms of mills, since it is the Heartech platform, expect the same powertrains as the Swift – 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel with both manual as well as AMT transmission options. The Future S will come to fruition by 2019 and will compete against whatever remains of the KUV and the upcoming Carolin-based Hyundai mini-SUV.
