Maruti Suzuki discontinues Ciaz RS variant

The country’s largest automaker, Maruti Suzuki has silently discontinued the RS variant from its Ciaz lineup in the country. The RS trim was available in petrol as well as diesel engine options and was based on top spec ZXi+ and ZDi+ SHVS variants. To distinguish it from a regular top-spec version the variant additionally offered body kit and feature upgrades like all black interiors, SmartPlay infotainment system, ABS and dual airbags. The RS trim was introduced by Maruti Suzuki way back in October 2015.

Mechanically, the Ciaz RS variant continues to be powered by existing engine options. The ZXi+ RS was powered by a 1.4-litre petrol engine which put 91bhp of power and 130Nm of torque, while the diesel ZDi+ SHVS RS variant came with a 1.3-litre DDiS engine with SHVS mild hybrid technology that put out 89bhp of power and 200Nm of torque. Both the engine were mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The sportier version of the Ciaz was offered in seven interesting shades of pearl snow white, pearl metallic dignity brown, pearl sangria red, pearl midnight black, metallic silky silver, metallic glistening grey and metallic clear beige.

The country’s leading player, Maruti Suzuki is planning on launching a couple of new models this year, which also includes the new Ciaz for the Indian market. In efforts to add a premium ownership experience, the automaker might sell the new Ciaz via Nexa outlets in the country. More details about the vehicle will be known in the coming days.

As reports indicate, if new Ciaz is introduced via Nexa outlets, customers can expect better service and overall ownership experience, which will in-turn result in improved Ciaz sales in the country. This will also mean that it will strengthen its competition against the new Honda City which is set for launch on February 14.