India’s largest car maker plans to launch four SUV’s in the Indian market over the next two years. The SUV segment has witnessed the highest growth in 2012 thanks to models like the Duster, Quanto & XUV5OO which have been a long waiting list. The premium SUV segment has also seen good growth.
To Start with the Maruti Suzuki will first launch the SX4 Crossover which the company has been showcasing during the last two Auto Expos. Seems like the Indian operations, have finally given a green signal to this model. With Fiat, Volkswagen & Skoda also planning to launch crossovers, Maruti wants to stay ahead of competition. The SX4 Crossover will also bring more volumes to the SX4 platform which has seen a flat growth in the last couple of years.
The next big model will be SUV based on the XA Alpha concept previewed at the 2012 Auto Expo. The XA Alpha will be bigger SUV measuring more than four metres and will be available with both petrol & diesel engine options. It may also get an optional 4×4 system.
According to ET, Maruti is also working on a sub-4 metre Vitara and an SUV version of the Swift Dzire platform. Both the SUV’s will be a major sales contributor to India’s largest car maker which will help increase its declining market share.
Suzuki will also launch a new Crossover S-Cross at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which is happening in March. the chances of it to be launched in India are positive.
Other companies have also lined up a number of SUV’s for the Indian market across various price ranges. Amongst the companies which plan to launch compact SUV’s are Tata Motors, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Ford and Datsun.
News Source: ET
