Maruti Suzuki has launched the Ciaz Hybrid in India at Rs 8.23 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). This is the first hybrid car in the segment and will replace all the standard diesel variants of the Ciaz sedan.
The Ciaz gets SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) technology and has a claimed ARAI fuel efficiency of 28.09kmpl, making it the most efficient diesel car on sale in India. The car uses regenerative braking to charge a larger battery under the bonnet, which in turn is used for the start-stop function a.k.a ‘A Stop’ that saves fuel.
The battery also helps in developing the torque and takes some load off the engine. The diesel engine is the 1.3-litre Multijet unit (DDiS 200) that produces 91bhp and 130Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.
There are almost no changes on the cosmetic front for the Ciaz with the only major additions being SHVS badging at the rear and some changes to the instrument cluster. However, we also believe dealers will soon start offering hybrid branded accessories for those buying the car. This is expected to include stickers, scuff plates and specially branded floor mats.
Maruti Suzuki’s effort to launch this car comes on the back of subsidy being offered to hybrid vehicles under the FAME initiative. This has allowed them to competitively price the car with a price reduction across all variants.
Prices for the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Hybrid (ex-showroom Delhi)
Maruti Suzuki VDI- Rs 8.23 lakh
Maruti Suzuki VDI (o) - Rs 8.37 lakh
Maruti Suzuki VDI +- Rs 8.81 lakh
Maruti Suzuki ZDI – Rs 9.52 lakh
Maruti Suzuki ZDI+- Rs 10.17 lakh