Suzuki has plenty of new models under development both for global markets as well as India markets. Among them is the much-anticipated eVX, the brand’s first born electric vehicle (EV) slated to make its global debut in 2025. Maruti, Suzuki’s Indian arm, will soon be launching the new-gen Swift and Dzire in the local market this year.
As per a new media report, Maruti is developing a compact and affordable MPV for the Indian market. This new MPV will be based on Suzuki Spacia- an ultra-compact micro MPV and is expected to make its debut by 2026. Internally codenamed YTB, the upcoming MPV will have plenty of differences over its Japanese cousin.
Maruti compact MPV expected styling
Suzuki Spacia is a two-row compact MPV which measures 3,395mm and qualifies as a ‘Kei’ car in Japan. The India-spec MPV, however, will be longer than Spacia yet still falling under the sub-4 metre category. As a result, the India-spec MPV will get an additional third-row of seating instead of the two-row layout of the Spacia.
Another significant change will be the lack of sliding rear doors, keeping the cost in check. The YDB MPV is expected to boast several updates inside the cabin over its Japanese counterpart. It is likely to borrow the same dashboard layout as the current range of Maruti models like Baleno, Fronx, and the upcoming Swift.
That said, there will be similarities too like the boxy profile and the flat and horizontal face featuring a blacked-out front grille with chrome embellishments. Other expected visual highlights include a wide air dam housed within the front bumper and rectangular headlights.
Maruti compact MPV expected powertrain
Since Suzuki Spacia is a ‘Kei’ car in Japan, it is powered by a small 660cc. However, the India-spec YTB is expected to borrow the new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z-series engine from the upcoming new-gen Swift. This new engine will be paired with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a CVT automatic transmission. The 1.2-litre motor generates 82 bhp of max power and 108 Nm of peak torque.
The new YTB MPV will be slotted below Ertiga and XL6 in Maruti’s portfolio in India. Upon launch, it will lock horns with Renault Triber, the only three-row sub-4 metre MPV in India currently.
Source: Autocar India