Maruti Suzuki has launched its latest offering for the Indian market here in Mumbai. Called the Ciaz, this new model is a C-segment sedan which replaces the old SX4. The latter has been in the Indian market since 2006 and was off late struggling in terms of sales.
Ex-showroom Mumbai prices for the petrol Ciaz starts at Rs 7.45 lakh for the entry-level variant, going up to Rs 9.88 lakh for the top-spec variant equipped with the automatic gearbox. The diesel range, meanwhile, starts at Rs 8.56 lakh and goes till Rs 10.36 lakh.
The Ciaz is available in a total of four variant and two engine options – Vxi, Vxi+, Zxi and Zxi+ in petrol and diesel. The petrol models are powered by a 1.4-litre K-Series engine churning out 93bhp of maximum power and 130Nm of torque. The diesel models, on the other hand, are powered by the familiar 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel engine producing 90bhp and 200Nm of torque. While the diesel gets a 5-speed manual, the petrol powered Ciaz gets a manual as well as a 4-speed automatic gearbox option.
Expectedly, the Ciaz is fairly loaded for the price, with the top-end variants of the Ciaz featuring projector headlamps, keyless entry and start function, multi-function steering wheel, AC with climate control, rear AC vents, 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, ABS, EBD and dual airbags.
Having failed to make a big impression in the C-segment space with the SX4 in the past, Maruti is hoping to turn things round with the new Ciaz. The competition, including the Honda City and the Hyundai Verna, is fierce and it will be a little tough for Maruti to persuade the target buyers to its showrooms.