Amid the slump in the Indian the auto market, Maruti Suzuki plans to launch new exciting products to breathe fresh life into its line-up. One such product is going to be the 'S-Presso', which, according to a new report, will be launched in September. It is expected to replace the Alto range.
Like the Renault Kwid, which created hype for such models in our market, the Maruti S-Presso will sport an SUV-inspired design. It will be Maruti Suzuki's first budget car after almost seven years and the company has already commenced its road testing. To be sold through the Arena outlets, it will be the production version of the Maruti Concept Future-S.
The entry-level Maruti crossover will feature a flattish bonnet and have a ground clearance higher compared to the Alto. The 'S-Presso' has been developed keeping the Indian auto market needs in mind, and it has been designed and engineered by Maruti Suzuki's R&D unit along with Suzuki's assistance, the second such product after the Vitara Brezza.
The Maruti 'S-Presso' will likely be built on the flexible and lightweight Heartect platform and employ the BS-VI version of the BS-IV K10B 1.0-litre engine that delivers 68 PS at 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm in the BS-IV version. The transmission duties will be performed by a standard 5-speed manual unit or a 5-speed automated manual unit. A CNG-powered version is expected to be launched at a later stage.
Before the S-Presso, Maruti Suzuki will launch an SUV-inspired MPV called XL6, in August. The company will sell this six-seater model, which is basically a derivative of the Ertiga, through the NEXA outlets.
[Source: Autocar India]
