Maruti Suzuki officials, in recent times, have spoken about how the country's top passenger car maker will further increase its market share with the launch of new vehicles. Strong rumours have already emerged regarding the introduction of diesel version of the Alto 800. Now, another development that has recently surfaced is the launch of a new sedan, which is expected to replace the existing SX4. Expected to be named the YL1, the design of this model has been inspired from the Suzuki AuthenticS, which was showcased at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show as a concept.
Sources close to the development have claimed that the YL1 sedan will be conceptualised on the same platform as the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. Adding further, the source suggested that there is a possibility of part sharing (interiors and engines) with Ertiga and Swift hatchback. In terms of specifications, the petrol variant of the Maruti Suzuki YL1 is expected to be powered by the same 1.4-litre K2 engine that is fitted in the Ertiga. It is being said that the YL1 sedan will generate around 94 bhp of maximum power output, along with a peak torque of 130 Nm. On the other hand, Maruti Suzuki is also likely to introduce a diesel variant, which will be fitted with 1.3-litre Multijet turbo engine, capable of producing around 90 bhp and a torque of up to 200 Nm. Both the engine variants, in all likelihood, will come with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Some experts also believe that a CNG version of the Maruti Suzuki YL1 might also hit Indian showrooms at a later stage.
It is being said that the YL1 is expected to be showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo. The showcasing of the Maruti Suzuki YL1 is likely to be followed by its commercial launch, wherein it will be put on sale. Experts feel that Maruti Suzuki is going to include a number of advanced features in the YL1 to attract buyers and make a case for itself in the segment. The Maruti Suzuki YL1 will come with a spacious cabin, high number of security features, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a push button start. One of the highlights of the new sedan is expected to be the the micro-hybrid system, which is equipped with brake-energy regeneration function and is slated to be available in top variants of the YL1. Also, the new sedan is anticipated to be lightweight as compared to the existing model but with lower ground clearance.
Maruti Suzuki is hoping to market this new sedan by targeting young people, who have a preference for stylish and sporty vehicles. The YL1 will face direct competition in the form of Nissan Sunny, Renault Scala and Hyundai Verna. Industry experts believe that the YL1 can expect to ride on the brand value of Maruti Suzuki and its stylish appeal to make an impact in the Indian car market. Also, the company would be hoping that by the time the YL1 is launched in India, the auto market has recovered to some extent from its slump. Apart from this, Maruti Suzuki would also like to give Hyundai, its fiercest rival, stiff competition as the South Korean maker is performing really well with its Verna.
