Maruti Suzuki is set to unveil its latest midsize SUV, internally codenamed Y17, on September 3.
Designed to take on the Hyundai Creta, the this new SUV from Maruti will be sold through Maruti’s vast Arena dealership network, unlike the more premium Grand Vitara that is offered through Nexa showrooms.
Powertrain Options: Petrol, Hybrid, and CNG
This new Maruti SUV will offer three engine options, providing a wide choice for different customer needs. These include:
- A 103hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, with both a 5-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic.
- An 88hp CNG variant for cost-conscious buyers.
- A 116hp petrol-electric hybrid, likely the most fuel-efficient in the lineup.
An AWD option will be available with the petrol-automatic variant, while the rest will come with FWD configurations. This mirrors the setup of the Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder, with which this new compact SUV shares its underpinnings.
Arena Showrooms to Lead the Charge
Maruti has decided to retail this SUV via its Arena showrooms, which number over 3,000 across India, compared to just 600 Nexa outlets. This strategy allows the brand to reach a significantly larger customer base and cater to a more value-driven audience. In positioning, this SUV will sit below the Grand Vitara, similar to how the Ertiga (Arena) is positioned under the XL6 (Nexa).
This move gives Arena dealers a much-needed premium product to headline their portfolio, following hits like the Ertiga and Brezza.
Competitive Edge and Future Exports
Maruti aims to attract buyers looking for a high-value alternative in the midsize SUV space. With competitors like the refreshed Volkswagen Taigun and upcoming Skoda Kushaq facelift, this car’s pricing and feature set will be key.
Additionally, the SUV will be exported to global markets, and a Toyota-badged version is expected to follow later.
This new compact SUV marks a strategic play for dominance in India’s hottest auto segment.
