Maruti YBA mini SUV shows its sub-4m length, launch in Jan 2016 - Spied

Could get the new Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engine.

Latest spyshots of the Maruti YBA (codename for Maruti's sub-4 meter SUV) highlight the compact dimensions of the Ford EcoSport rival. Set to go on sale in India in January 2016, the YBA is reported to be based on the Swift's platform.

Maruti, which plans to sell 2 million units/annum in the next few years, has a lot riding on forthcoming cars like the YBA and SX4 S-Cross, both of which will be positioned in the hot-selling UV segment. Where the SX4 S-Cross will rival crossovers like the Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and Mahindra Scorpio, the YBA will compete in a segment below which is monopolized by the Ford EcoSport currently.

Both, petrol and diesel engines will be offered on the YBA, a source told Indian Autos Blog earlier this month. Maruti could either use the tried-and-tested 1.2-liter four-cylinder K-Series engine or the all-new 1.0-liter turbocharged 'Boosterjet' engine which was previewed on the iK-2 concept at the Geneva Motor Show.

Also read: Maruti Celerio diesel production starts in Manesar, launch in April

The YBA will have a capable diesel engine in the 1.3-liter Fiat-sourced MultiJet engine. A self-developed diesel engine could also be employed, reports have indicated. Prior to the arrival of the YBA, Maruti is expected to launch the YRA premium hatchback (production version of iK-2) by the end of this year.

Rivals:Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon, VW Taigun, Mahindra S101
Expected Price: INR 5-8 lakhs, ex-showroom
Tentative Launch Date: January 2016 (unconfirmed)

Maruti XA-Alpha Concept - Image Gallery

[Spyshots from GaadiWaadi]