Maruti Ciaz spotted testing again

Maruti Ciaz (YL1) has been spotted again testing near the company’s plant in Gurgaon. The Ciaz is based on the Suzuki Authentics concept, first shown at the Shanghai Motor Show in 2013 and at the Auto Expo 2014. The Ciaz is all set to replace the SX4 when it goes on sale later this year.

The Maruti Authentics concept did please many an eye, and given the simpler lines, it is easy to believe the production car might look much similar to the concept. But, we expect the production model to be a lot different. The spy shots are limited to the rear end and the left-rear-three-quarter. Despite the heavy camouflage, the rear silhouette which is much similar to the SX4 can be seen. The tail-lights look smaller in contrast to the rear end dominated by the large bumper and the big boot. 

The car might be powered by a 1.6-litre VVT-i petrol engine and the 1.3-litre Fiat sourced MultiJet diesel mill. It is expected to be roomier and well appointed interiors in comparison to the SX4. The car will get a five-speed manual as standard, the SX4 did have an automatic variant, and it would be interesting to see if Maruti continues with the traditional AT or the now trending AMT (Automated Manual Transmission).

The car will compete in the competitive C-segment with the current leader Honda City, and the second best Hyundai Verna along with the other cars. 

We expect Maruti to launch the car during or before the festive season of Diwali. The pricing of the car will be much closer to the competition and may be marginally lower considering the manufacturing prowess of Maruti. However, the Ciaz won’t have it easy as the SX4 never sold in big numbers until they gave it a diesel motor in 2011. The Ciaz will have to match the competition spec to spec and feature to feature to make a mark in the sales chart. We will keep you updated with the latest news on the Ciaz so watch this space for more.

Source: Motorbeam