Maruti Suzuki Launches ‘Suzuki Connect’ Telematics Solution

Maruti Suzuki has launched ‘Suzuki Connect’, a telematics-based solution for its Nexa range of cars. The system works via a “TCU” (telematics control unit), that streams data onto an app on iOS and Android.

Now, you might think you’ve heard of something similar before. You aren’t mistaken, Honda India provides a similar service called  ‘Honda Connect’. But there’s one major difference between the two. While Honda’s system runs off of the OBD-II port of the vehicle, Suzuki’s uses a separate module. This, Maruti Suzuki says, makes it ‘difficult’ to tamper with.

Suzuki Connect offers the same basket of features as most modern vehicle black boxes,. This includes live location tracking, geo-fencing, driver behaviour monitoring and emergency assistance. The system can send information to as many as five pre-set users in case of an emergency. Other features include vehicle health monitoring, which enables it to issue ‘proactive warnings’ to the owner.

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This tech is currently available only for cars Maruti Suzuki retails through its ‘Nexa’ chain. Priced at Rs 9,999 for a three year subscription, it can be installed on new and existing vehicles alike.

Is it worth it?

It makes for a sound investment if:

• you’re a finicky owner and want to know where your car is at all times

• have multiple people driving the car (and you want to keep a tab on how they treat the car)

• the vehicle is prone to theft

For a three year subscription, that price does seem reasonable. So, in case you own an S-Cross, Baleno, Ignis or Ciaz, this is definitely worth checking out.