Leaked - Maruti Ciaz production version patented in China

28/03/2014 - 21:02 Maruti Ciaz, Maruti Suzuki Shrawan Raja

The production version of the Suzuki Authentics/Maruti Ciaz was patented in China recently. Here are leaks from the patent office showing all angles of the car, released by Chinese news outlet AutoHome.

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz front three quarters patent — Would Suzuki show the production version at the Beijing Auto Show next month?

Maruti Ciaz Concept front three quarters far — Maruti Ciaz Concept added for comparison. The design of the headlamp, foglamp and wing mirror is diluted in the production specification.

To be made by the Changan Suzuki joint venture in China from the end of the year, the production model may not use the 'Authentics' branding in the Chinese market. Leaving out the obvious differences in the grille, lights and bumpers, the car stays true to the Authentics/Ciaz concept.

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz rear patent — The Ciaz replaces the SX4 sedan, but is a much larger vehicle.

Maruti Ciaz Concept rear three quarters left — Maruti Ciaz Concept at the Auto Expo 2014.

The Ciaz is the replacement to the SX4 sedan which has spent an unsatisfactory life in India. Barring price revisions, a diesel engine, heavy discounts, and a facelift, sales of the car flagged and averaged 255 units in the last six months.

Maruti Ciaz Concept side — Maruti Ciaz Concept added for comparison.

The Ciaz's engines are not confirmed, and Autohome is reporting a 1.6L petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT. In India, Maruti would need a diesel engine option to go with it, which either has to come from Fiat (1.3L or 1.6L Multi-jet) or is a high-displacement motor Maruti is developing at home. An AMT is another option for the petrol engine.

The Maruti Ciaz will launch in the second half of the year.