Maruti Will Launch ‘Baleno-Style’ Compact SUV To Fight Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue!

Maruti Suzuki is developing an all-new compact SUV inspired by its hot selling Baleno hatchback, internally known as YTB. This follows the launch of its Vitara Brezza SUV over four years ago.

It is expected to possess design elements of a coupe or mini crossover. Development time could be reduced and costs could be cut given the existing architecture possessed by Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL).

Influence

The YTB is said to not only be influenced by the Baleno but will also take the role of its “sister car”. It will be positioned below the Vitara Brezza.

The sister car status of the model will help MSIL achieve a cut in costs and time it would take to manufacture an entirely new vehicle.

Fight For Market Share

The above strategy was earlier adopted when Maruti successfully launched XL6 and Ertiga. 

In order to recapture lost market share which was conceded to the likes of Hyundai (with its compact SUV the Venue, and mid size SUV the Creta) and Kia Motors (Seltos), it would have to keep expanding its lineup in the SUV segment.

It will be placed to rival the likes of Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger and the Nissan Magnite.

Maruti enjoys dominance in the sedan and hatchback categories but the Indian market has been leaning towards SUVs. The SUV market is high in volume generation and profitability. 

In another attempt to regain customers it has also introduced retrofitted SUV-resembling design elements for its Ignis and S-Presso hatchbacks.

Features Vs Vitara Brezza, Price and Launch Year

• YTB – It is said to contain a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
• The Brezza-  1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. 
• YTB- the engine will likely generate power of 88 PS and peak torque of 113 Nm. It will come with a 5 speed manual transmission when it is launched presumably in 2022.
• Brezza- 1.2-litrepetrol engine generates 104 Bhp maximum power and 138 Nm of peak torque.

A variant will also be introduced equipped with CVT automatic gearbox and one which borrows from the diesel engine variant of the Brezza.

It will be expected to cost less than Vitara Brezza (priced at Rs. 7.34 lakhs to Rs. 11.40 lakhs ex-showroom) and will be featured in Maruti Suzuki Arena dealerships as opposed to Nexa showrooms. 

Maruti, Toyota Will Launch A New Indian Crossover SUV To Fight Creta, Seltos, MG Hector, learn more.