Over the recent past, compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have majorly found the attention of Indian buyers as compared to other segment cars. Companies like Ford and Renault have derived huge benefits in the Indian car market mainly because of the increasing demand for compact SUVs. The response meted out to Renault Duster and Ford EcoSport has lured the attention of many car makers towards the respective segment. As far as things for the leading car company of India, Maruti Suzuki are concerned, it is planning to capitalise on the growing demand of segment by introducing a compact SUV that will be based on XA Alpha concept, which was showcased at the previous Auto Expo.
With its attractive design and features, it is expected to take the market by storm, riding on the brand value of Maruti Suzuki. However, the company has not announced any official details regarding the compact SUV but sources are saying that the model is currently in the developing phase and might roll out in 2014. Reportedly, the upcoming car of Maruti Suzuki will be offered in petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol version shall be equipped with the K-Series powertrain whereas the diesel one shall get the 1.3-litre DDiS engine. Owing to the powerful engine configuration, XA Alpha would clock a maximum speed of 180 kmph, which seems quite impressive for a budget oriented compact SUV.
Based on an SUV design, it will be offered in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive options under different trim levels. The company shall be giving the drive selector on the central console of the car in order to switch between the different modes while travelling on rough terrains. According to industry experts, Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha would be able to offer best-in-class mileage from its rewarding diesel and petrol engines. The expected mileage of the compact SUV is said to be around 10 kmpl.
Talking about safety equipment, the car would be equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which gives the much needed control of the car whenever it skids off the track. Also to mention, the company might give away dual airbags for the driver and the front passenger. While for features, functions like automatic climate control system with rear air-conditioning vents, electrically adjustable outside mirrors, rear armrest with cup holders, leather seats, rear defogger, foldable rear seats and steering mounted audio controls might be present in XA Alpha.
As seen in the design philosophy of XA Alpha concept that was showcased earlier, it based on a monocoque frame and that has further fuelled rumours that the production ready model might retain the same elements. For dimensions, the car shall be 1900 mm wide, 1600 mm high and shall have a wheelbase of 2500 mm. Potential buyers of XA Alpha can expect some the high-end features that include remote fuel lid opener and integrated music system, compatible with AUX-in, USB, MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity. Going by reports, the car might not feature at the 2014 Auto Expo and it will probably arrive in India by the second half of 2014. For price, trade analysts are betting high that the upcoming compact SUV of Maruti Suzuki would carry a price tag of sub-Rs 10 lakh.
