The Suzuki Vitara has been spied in India yet again, this time showing its side profile which features diamond-cut alloy wheels, body-coloured door handles, ORVM with integrated turn signal and the signature "clam-shell" bonnet.
As reported earlier, the Vitara test mules in India are likely testing out new powertrain options, or perhaps a new supplier's parts for global Suzuki models. It is unlikely that the Indian arm, Maruti Suzuki, is considering the Vitara for its portfolio. Reports suggest that Maruti is working on a crossover based on the next-gen 2018 Maruti Ertiga. The seven-seater crossover type vehicle could become the flagship Maruti model.
The 2018 Maruti Ertiga is based on the new HEARTECT platform, and is 99 mm longer, 40 mm wider, and 5 mm taller than its predecessor, though at 2,740 mm, the wheelbase is unchanged. The MPV, and hence the upcoming crossover, will be powered by a 1.5-liter K15B four-cylinder VVT petrol engine capable of 104.7 PS and 138 Nm. The same engine is expected to make its debut in the 2018 Ciaz, which is reported to go on sale in India next month. The crossover based on the Ertiga is reported to launch six months after the MPV goes on sale, possibly making it Maruti Suzuki's last product introduction for this financial year.
Also read: Current Maruti Ertiga to be rebranded Ertiga Tour
As far as the Vitara is concerned, Suzuki is readying a facelift for the crossover which could break cover at the Paris Motor Show in September this year; the same biennial event in 2014 saw the premiere of the current Vitara. The facelifted Vitara is reported to get LED elements for the headlights and taillights, though the engine options are likely to continue being the same. It is available with 1.6-liter petrol and diesel engines, and a 1.4-liter Boosterjet petrol engine in an 'S' trim.
[Image Source - RushLane]
