Here’re 5 Things To Expect From The Upcoming Maruti-Toyota SUV

The current joint venture between Suzuki and Toyota so far has had shared models in the form of the Vitara Brezza/Urban Cruiser as well as the Baleno/Glanza in India. The Baleno’s already received a midlife refresh, and the Glanza is slated to get its very soon. The Vitara Brezza and Urban Cruiser are also due a generation update soon. Now, the two carmakers are slated to jointly develop an all-new compact SUV, which has been spotted testing. Here’s five key points to expect from it:

Two Philosophies 

It wasn’t just one model that was spotted: there was another one beside it, sporting some key differences despite the heavy disguise. The first one features sleek headlights with high-mounted bumpers. What makes this a Maruti model is the front grille, which looks similar to a facelifted Baleno, the alloy-wheel design, and a small glimpse of the triple-element DRLs around the headlight surround.

On the other hand, the Toyota model was spotted with a slightly different front grille design, and the headlights seem to sport a different lighting signature. The wheels were steel black, so we can expect a different design in that department too.

Chunky Proportions

The new Maruti-Toyota SUV seems to be quite the chunky model, with its aggressive front bonnet and protruding bumpers. Despite the camouflage, the rear end also seems to be quite busy, with the tail lamps likely being connected units. Also, looking at the proportions, eagle-eyed viewers will notice this chunky body looks to be inspired by the sexy Maruti Suzuki Futuro-E SUV-coupe concept that was showcased at Auto Expo 2020. 

Loaded Interiors

A small glimpse into the cabin, and we noticed a large touchscreen infotainment system right at the centre of the dash (possibly the facelifted Baleno’s 9-inch unit), which hints at plenty of kit on offer. Considering how loaded the updated Maruti Baleno was, we also expect bits like a premium audio system, connected car tech, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera. Considering its segment, it could also get some ADAS driver assists.

Under The Hood

The two SUVs might get the familiar 105PS 1.5-litre petrol engine that’s already there in the Vitara Brezza and S-Cross, paired with 5-speed manual and automatic gearbox options.  That being said, we could have Suzuki’s new 129PS 1.4-litre Boosterjet mill from the 2022 S-Cross debut in the Maruti-Toyota SUVs with 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox options.

When’s It Coming? 

We expect the Maruti-Toyota SUV to be launched in India towards the end of 2022, starting with a Maruti-badged model followed by the Toyota version. Prices could range from Rs 9 lakh to Rs 17 lakh (ex-showroom). Aside from the compact SUV titans, the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, it will rival the likes of the MG Astor, Volkswagen Taigun, and the Skoda Kushaq.

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