Maruti Suzuki could be planning to launch a number of SUVs in the Indian market to target a vast range of competitors. The assemblage of these SUVs is being alleged to be launched with a timeline of one SUV every six months starting from mid-2021 to 2023. The new SUVs are likely to be launched across multiple platforms including a Crossover, a compact SUV, a mid-size SUV and possibly a lifestyle SUV. The new line-up will also be spread across a large price range but sources say the price gap between the model is likely to be around INR 45,000 to INR 50,000.
According to sources, the first product will be an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) that is likely to challenge the Mahindra Marazzo. The MPV is likely to be the result of the Toyota-Suzuki alliance and the new MPV will also be marketed by Toyota. The MPV is likely to be introduced by mid-2021. Following the MPV could be a crossover that is likely to rival the Tata Nexon. The crossover SUV is expected to be launched in the first half of 2022.
The crossover is likely to be followed by the next-generation Vitara Brezza that is expected to arrive in the second half of 2022, which is likely to be pinned against the Kia Sonet in the compact SUV segment. Also, in the second half of 2022 the mid-size SUV segment, sources report that the brand is likely to launch a Creta and Seltos rival SUV. Finally, in 2023, we may see the 5-door iteration of the Maruti Suzuki Jimny which could be positioned as a lifestyle SUV rivalling the Mahindra Thar and the Force Gurkha in the BS6 iteration.
The SUV offensive is likely to be a part of the brand’s strategy to boost sales and align itself with the SUV trend shift that has is seen in the Indian market.