Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. (MSIL) will be focussing on hybrid and electric vehicles besides showcasing its two strategic models — Kizashi sedan and SX4 hatchback — at the Auto Expo 2010 beginning next week. The car maker will also be unveiling its new multi-utility vehicle Eeco at the mega event.
With focus shifting towards alternative fuels, Maruti Suzuki wants to showcase its prowess in future-ready green technologies in the form of concept cars for hybrid and electric vehicle. While MSIL may launch alternative fuel variants of some of its popular cars at the mega event, it will showcase the hybrid concept of SX4 sedan and electric Eeco van.
“These concept cars bring forward an interesting dimension on how eco-friendliness and personal mobility can be attractively packaged together as an exciting product,” a senior MSIL official said.
MSIL is also excited about the proposed launch of its luxury sedan Kizashi, which, in Japanese, means a sign of great things to come or foretaste. Through Kizashi, which is the sixth world strategic model from the Suzuki stable, MSIL wants to strengthen its position in the fast-growing premium-car segment.
Powered by a 2.4-litre petrol engine and equipped with ‘continuously variable transmission’, Kizashi would prove to the new stimulant for D-segment choice, engaged driving, and lifestyle enjoyment, the official said. Suzuki engineers have tested Kizashi through cold-weather trials in Minnesota (U.S.) and hot-weather trials in Death Valley in North America. They honed the car’s handling on challenging country roads in the U.K. and Germany, besides testing and tuning the sedan on the tough terrains of New Zealand.
Similarly, sedan SX4 will soon be joined by its hatchback variant in India. The SX4 hatchback is a popular hatchback in European markets. In Europe, the SX4 hatchback is available in multiple engine options that include 2.0 litre, 1.6 litre and 1.5 litre petrol engines. An ideal combination of style, space, hatchback practicality, and fuel economy has made SX4 hatchback popular in overseas markets. It comes with aluminium-alloy wheels, and onboard ESP (electronic stability program) for extra safety.
With features like the two-wheel drive (2WD) and an optional intelligent all-wheel drive (i-AWD) system, MSIL hopes that SX4 hatchback will be an instant hit among car-lovers in India.
