India’s largest car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki is trying hard to improve its position in the premium segment. The company recently launched the Ciaz mid-sized sedan, and is readying the S-Cross SX4 crossover for early 2015 launch. If media reports are to be believed, MSI is also contemplating the Vitara compact SUV for the Indian car market. The crossover was unveiled at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, and it will directly compete against the likes of Nissan Qashqai, Skoda Yeti and others in the league.
The Vitara SUV is based on the iV-4 concept that was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. It represents Suzuki’s design philosophy with added elements to offer sporty feel. The exteriors of the crossover get aggressive creases and curves running all around the car. Its clamshell bonnet has striking lines which visually flows to meet A-pillar. The bumper features wide air dam and fog lamp enclosure. There is a chrome grille flanked by headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps.
The vehicle showcased in Paris featured ORVMs with turn blinkers, flared wheel arches, chrome door handles, sloping roofline, and wrap around rear profile. Inside, the Vitara SUV has newly designed instrument panel garnish and a U-shaped design around the shift lever. The vehicle has leather wrapped steering wheel and gear selector, and leather upholstery for seats.
The 5-seater crossover will be offered in both petrol and diesel fuel options- a 1.6L petrol and diesel units producing 120bhp. The Vitara compact SUV is expected to be priced around Rs. 14-17 lakh, and will give tough fight to the likes of Mahindra XUV 500 and Skoda Yeti in India.
