Next-Gen Maruti S-Cross To Get Plug-In Hybrid Technology

The currently sold Maruti S-Cross features SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) mild-hybrid technology. But the new-gen S-Cross will be equipped plug-in hybrid technology and this information was revealed by Managing Director of Suzuki UK, Dale Wyatt.

Suzuki will focus on electrification of its cars in the coming years. Dale Wyatt stated that all the small cars will get a 12-volt mild-hybrid system and the larger models will be equipped with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The electrification will be achieved by 2020.

But the next-gen Maruti S-Cross and the Vitara will feature plug-in hybrid technology. The mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology will be a perfect alternative for electric vehicles till the EVs become mainstream. Suzuki will also follow the same route and will introduce hybrid vehicles.

Dale Wyatt also said that only the S-Cross and Vitara will get the plug-in hybrid technology and the Swift and Celerio will not feature the new hybrid system. The next-gen S-Cross might be offered with a petrol engine and with the combination of mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid technology.

But for the Indian market, Maruti Suzuki is expected to offer a new 1.5-litre diesel engine which is in the development phase. But the plug-in hybrid technology will be an expensive affair in the Indian market. The lack of charging infrastructure will also be a problem. So, Maruti Suzuki might stick with the 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.

Thoughts On The Next-Gen Maruti S-Cross

The next-gen Maruti S-Cross is expected to make its global debut in 2020 and the crossover will be equipped with new technology and features. We can also expect an all-new design language as opposed to the currently sold model. But it will be interesting to see if the plug-in hybrid technology will make it to India.