2018 Maruti Ciaz spotted on its pre-launch tests - IAB reader spy shot

Spy shots shared last month suggest that the production of the 2018 Maruti Ciaz (facelift) is already underway. However, the company continues to test the car as evidenced by the images shared by IAB reader Dheeraj Gupta.

The Maruti Ciaz facelift test unit was spotted in New Delhi, around 50 km from MSIL manufacturing facility in Manesar, Haryana. Visible through the camouflage are its headlights, tail lights, and alloy wheels. The headlights are same as the current model, although spy media shared before have shown new ones. The alloy wheels are the same 15-inch units the Delta grade (formerly ZXi/ZDi) comes shod with. All this could indicate that the example seen here is the second from top Delta grade.

Changes to the exterior of the Ciaz include a narrower and wider grille, new bumper with C-shape chrome embellishments, a new set of headlamps and tail lamps and two-tone 16-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Ciaz will get a lighter shade of faux wood inserts, a revised instrument console, and cruise control buttons on the steering wheel.

A new 1.5 L K15B petrol engine will replace the existing 1.4 L unit. Also, it will benefit from mild-hybrid technology as well. This engine powers the 2018 Suzuki Ertiga (Maruti Ertiga) launched in Indonesia and the new Suzuki Jimny as well. While the 1.3 L DDiS 200 diesel is in line to get swapped out in favour of a new 1.5 L mill developed by Suzuki, the Maruti Ciaz diesel will have to wait until next year for that.

Also Read - 2018 Maruti Ciaz facelift spied up-close without disguise

The launch of the 2018 Maruti Ciaz is expected this month. Currently, the Ciaz range starts from INR 7.83 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). The introduction of the new petrol engine may lead to an increment in the prices of the sedan. The 2018 Maruti Ciaz is likely to be priced INR 8 lakhs (ex-showroom) onwards stretching all the way to around INR 11.5 lakhs (ex-showroom).