Mini-SUV From Maruti In Two Years

By By: Vicky.in

Published: Wednesday, December 29, 2010, 15:00 [IST]

Maruti Suzuki is still an undisputed leader in the Indian car market by retaining 50% share amidst the invasion of global players into it with rapid pace. To increase the more possible volume and to enter the various segment, Maruti is aiming to roll down an SUV to counter the existing players. The vehicle, according to some section of reports, may be on the lines of Suzuki Jimmy which is a diesel with 2-door. However Maruti may convert this into 4-door, it is learnt, to meet the domestic market demands. According to the company sources, this will be one of the seven models proposed by Maruti for the next couple of years.

Other forms will be on the basis of Alto small car, an MPV on the lines of Toyota Innova on RIII concept. For the calendar year 2011, in January there will be Kizashi sedan, in February it will be SX4 diesel, and in March-April it may be refined Swift and the Swift Dzire ranges. Maruti heavily relies on these two last versions to boost its sale volume for regaining the 50%share in the domestic market. This proposition is made in accordance with the projection of 20-25% sale in car in the next few years. An official from Maruti hinted said that the company is exploring all possibilities to fill in the gap and void left by it in other segments, especially SUV and MUV.

The existing models in SUV are Grand Vitara and Gypsy which are petrol versions. The move comes in the wake of Volkswagen entering into a JV with Suzuki, by which Maruti intends to capitalize on engine specifications. The major players in the SUV segment are M&M with Scorpio, Toyota (Innova and Fortuner) Ford (Endeavor) and Tata (Safari). The segment is expected to rise its market share by 70% towards this year end.

All these indications were to have been conceived and confirmed by the company"s MD and CEO.