Maruti has been receiving awesome response in the Indian market for its first compact SUV Vitara Brezza. Launched in March this year, the SUV has already surpassed 50,000 units sales mark and on the verge of touching 1.2 lakh bookings. That said, the SUV commands a waiting period of six to eight months depending on the variants. According to dealers, the substantial amount of bookings is for the range topping dual color ZDI+ variant.
Currently, Vitara Brezza is powered by a 1.3l DDis diesel engine that makes 89bhp power and 200Nm of linked to a 5-speed manual gearbox. To maintain the overwhelming response, Maruti is planning a petrol variant of the SUV which is expected to hit Indian market by April 2017. The Maruti could introduce the 1.5l petrol that’s under development phase and is reported to make way in S-Cross and Ciaz next year.
The other option could be the new 1.0 litre boosterjet turbo petrol engine which will make its debut in Baleno RS next month. This performance oriented engine will take on the Ford EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost engine. The boosterjet will be paired to a six speed manual gearbox along with optional AT or AMT gearbox. It’s all about performance only so don’t expect class leading from this engine, though mileage figures aren’t known yet but expect it deliver around 19 Kmpl.
Available in seven variants with six color choice, the SUV is loaded with brim of features like Smartplay infotainment system with built in navigation, electrically adjustable ORVMs with integrated turn blinkers, projector headlamps, reverse parking camera, cooled glove box, mood lighting, cruise control, dual front airbags and ABS with EBD. There won’t be any changes to design except for the badging and different alloy wheels.
The introduction of petrol engine will further widen the appeal of Vitara Brezza and reduces the weakening demand for entry level diesel engines. The petrol will be lot more affordable than its diesel counterparts and it is expected to price between Rs. 6.2 lakh and 8.9 lakh (ex-showroom).
