Both the models would inially be rolled out in limited numbers and would be dispatched to selected cities to start with, company sources said here on Wednesday.

"Later the models would be made available nationally," the sources added.

This would mark the launch of first Euro-II emission norm compliant vehicle from the Maruti stable. This comes close on the heels of the launch of the vintage looking Zen Classic.

The final price tags of these vehicles are also being worked out,the sources added.

The VXI is an upgradation of the existing Zen VX model. To be priced slightly above the existing VX model, the car would feature a power steering, rear wind-shield demister, side mouldings as additions on the existing Zen VX features.

The MPI Zen, powered by a multi-point fuel injection two-valve engine, would also zip the streetsalmost simultaneously. The car would be Euro-II emission norms compliant and would be produced in limited numbers initially for technology demonstration, the sources added.

"We propose to have on offer only 240 units of the variant for technology demonstration purposes and for testing out appropriateness of price positioning of Euro-II compliant variant and test marketing of the product," the sources added.

In addition, Maruti is preparing to launch another multi-point fuel injection engine version of the Zen in March 2000. This would sport a MPI four valve engine as its heart, would be launched in March 2000.

This would complete the product variants of Zen that the company plans to introduce to stave off increasing competition in this segment.

According to the MUL sources, the upgradations and variants are being launched in order to improve value perception of existing models. Besides, it is also as part of the company's strategy to tap more markets and also take care of emission related technologyrequirements on account of euro norms applicability in some markets.

It may be recalled that MUL had last week unveiled the Zen Classic, based on Suzuki Motor Corporation's popular small car -- Cervo-C. The car, priced at Rs 3.64 lakh (ex-showroom in Delhi), had an improved upholstery, different grill and tail lamps in addition to existing Zen VX features.

The existing Zen range comprising Zen LX (Rs 2.89 lakh), Zen VX (Rs 3.39 lakh), Zen AX (Rs 4.18 lakh) and Zen diesel (Rs 4.18 lakh).

According to company officials, the launch of Zen Classic reflects Maruti's recognition of the sub-segments within the Zen market. "As the market matures, opening up such segments is critical to success as it allows us to cater to a wider variety of customer requirements."

Meanwhile, Maruti has decided not to phase out any of its existing vehicles despite new introductions over the next one year.

The decision to this effect was taken in view of the surging demand for all its existing vehicles.