Alleged Maruti Swift RS could launch in April 2019, claims a report

08/12/2018 - 10:27 Maruti Swift, Maruti Suzuki Yatharth Chauhan

In October 2018, it was reported that instead of the Swift Sport, which was ruled out last August, the company plans to launch a 'Maruti Swift RS'. A report by Express Drives states that the purported hot-hatch version of the popular B1-segment contender (avg. monthly sales from June-November 2019 - 19,322 units) could launch in April 2019.

Suzuki Swift Sport Images Thai Motor Expo 2018 Fro — Powering the Maruti Swift RS will be the K10C Boosterjet engine imported from Japan. (In Picture - Suzuki Swift Sport Auto Salon Version from 2018 Thai Motor Expo).

While the Baleno RS is instituted to serve the needs of customers who are searching for some driving enthusiasm, we aren't sure of what the Swift RS would offer to this very niche segment. The more powerful iteration of the Baleno hasn't really set sales charts ablaze, and the company would require the conviction to introduce another performance-oriented model in the sub-INR 10 lakh segment. Higher margins from the Swift for the Arena sales channel is perhaps the biggest benefit of this addition, but only if there is clear market acceptance for a second performance Maruti.

Reportedly, the Maruti Swift RS will look sportier owing to styling add-ons that will work together to bestow a more dynamic character. It is likely to feature sportier bumpers, mesh design front grille, side skirts, bumper diffusers, new alloy wheels, and a rear upper spoiler. A purported spy shot of a test mule that surfaced in October, like the JDM spec Swift, showed 16-inch wheels and disc brakes on all four wheels.

On the inside, we expect the Maruti Swift RS to feature an all-black colour scheme with Burning Red trim for the centre console, instrument cluster, and the front doors. Other highlights should include sports alloy pedals and piano black trim on the steering wheel.

The Maruti Swift RS is expected to share its engine with the Baleno RS. The latter is powered by the K10C 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine that outputs (75 kW) 101.97 PS and 5,500 rpm and 150 Nm at 1,700-4,500 rpm. The motor comes mated to a five-speed manual transmission that sends power to the front wheels. The performance version of the hot-selling small car should further benefit from a stiffer suspension and sharper braking.