CONFIRMED! Maruti Suzuki Ciaz-based Toyota Sedan Will Be Called ‘Belta’

• Toyota Belta has been spotted undisguised ahead of launch.
• Design changes limited to its grille, badges, and wheel hub caps.
• Should get a 7-inch infotainment system, cruise control, and LED headlamps.
• Will be powered by a 105PS 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired with 5-speed manual and 4-speed torque converter.
• Likely to be launched in India in the coming months.

The Toyota sedan based on the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz will be called the Belta, and it has been spotted undisguised. Production of the left-hand-drive model has begun, confirming that the rebadged sedan will be sold overseas, probably African markets as per their JV. In India, the Belta is supposed to be launched soon to replace the recently discontinued Yaris. 

Like we’ve come to expect from a Maruti Suzuki-rebranded-as-Toyota, the Belta’s differentiators are limited to just the grille, badges, and wheel hub caps. The rest of it is exactly the same as the Ciaz. This is a bummer, considering Toyota had put more effort into distinguishing the Urban Cruiser from the Vitara Brezza.  

Inside, save for probably the redesigned upholstery and the colour scheme, the rest -- dashboard design and features -- will be similar to the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz. 

Highlights include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, cruise control, steering-mounted audio controls, LED headlamps, and keyless entry with push-button start. Passenger safety is taken care of by dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors with camera.  

The Belta will be powered by Maruti Suzuki’s 105PS 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired with a mild-hybrid system for additional torque boost. This engine can be mated to a 5-speed manual and an optional 4-speed torque converter automatic. 

When launched in India, the Toyota Belta will likely be priced from around Rs 9 lakh (ex-showroom), squaring off against the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, VW Vento, Skoda Rapid, and, of course, its donor vehicle, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz.

Image Source