Spied - Maruti's sub-4m SUV starts testing ahead of 2016 launch

Set to rival the Ford EcoSport in 2016.

Maruti-Suzuki have started testing their all-new sub-4 meter compact SUV, ahead of a launch that will take place in early 2016. Autocar India has the first spyshot of Maruti's Ford EcoSport rivaling mini SUV, and based on the test mule, it seems that the design of the car has been finalized.

The front fascia seems to borrow design cues from the Suzuki iv-4 concept, which has now spawned into the Suzuki Vitara SUV. However, the side profile of the car clearly has a lot in common with the Maruti XA-Alpha concept shown at the 2012 Auto Expo.

According to the report, the mini SUV is codenamed YBA, and is expected to be packed with equipment to put up a serious fight with the EcoSport, and upcoming mini SUVs from VW and Tata Motors.

Coming to engines, Maruti can use its 1.2-liter K-Series petrol engine and the Fiat-sourced 1.3-liter MultiJet diesel as both these units comply with small car regulations.

Also read: Suzuki Alivio (Chinese Maruti Ciaz) makes debut at Guangzhou Auto Show

 However, reports say that the company is working on an all-new 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, and this could find its place in the YBA too, as a worthy rival to the EcoBoost-powered EcoSport which too has a 1.0-liter turbo-petrol engine.

Competitors: Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport, VW Taigun
Expected Price: INR 5.5-9 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch Date: Q1 2016

[Source - Autocar India]