Maruti Suzuki Plans To Bring A New Entry-Level Car With Mild-Hybrid And Flex Fuel Options

Maruti Suzuki’s mid-term management plan, recently shared with the Bombay Stock Exchange, has revealed more details about the company’s future strategy. This time, the focus is on smaller cars: a segment where Maruti was once the undisputed leader in India but has lost ground in recent years. 

The company’s market share has dipped below 50 per cent, largely due to declining sales in the entry-level car segment. To regain its stronghold, Maruti plans to revamp its small car lineup with a wider range of powertrain options, including mild-hybrid and flex-fuel technology. But why is Maruti taking this approach, and what can we expect from these upcoming models? Let’s find out.

Maruti’s Plans With A-Segment Cars

The A-segment of Maruti, comprising entry-level hatchbacks like the Alto K10 and S-Presso, has seen declining sales in recent years. Some factors like increasing vehicle costs and customer’s rising preference toward SUVs have contributed to this trend. As the Indian marque’s mid-term plan suggests, to counteract this decline, they are developing a new small car that will offer multiple powertrain options, including mild-hybrid, CNG, and flex-fuel options. This approach aims to provide affordable and fuel-efficient choices for budget-conscious consumers. 

Why This Strategy?

Mild-hybrid technology combines a petrol engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Flex-fuel vehicles, on the other hand, can run on different ethanol-petrol blends, promoting cleaner energy use. Maruti Suzuki has already introduced mild-hybrid systems in models like the Brezza, Fronx, and Ertiga while also offering CNG options in several of its bigger cars. Now, the company plans to bring these technologies to smaller, entry-level cars. This move aims to make them more eco-friendly while also reducing running costs, staying true to Maruti’s reputation for cost-efficient four-wheelers.

What To Expect?

While specific details about the new small car are not been disclosed, it is expected to be unique to Maruti, hence with new design elements and modern features to impress the first-time car buyers. The inclusion of multiple powertrain options will allow customers to choose a variant of their choice according to their budget and driving preferences. 

This is the same document that revealed Maruti Suzuki’s plans to introduce three more EVs after the e Vitara. That said, the brand seems fully committed to its long-term vision. With major changes in motion, it’s now just a matter of time before we see some exciting new cars from Maruti.

So, will you be buying a new entry-level Maruti? Tell us in the comments.