The Mazda VX-1 was launched in Indonesia on Saturday in two trim levels. The model is made in India as the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, exported to Suzuki's Indonesian factory in West Java where it dressed up as the Mazda VX-1.
Why did Mazda borrow Suzuki's vehicle to enter this market segment? You understand why when you learn that the Ertiga is a top 5 best seller in Indonesia with 20,000 units retailed thus far in 2013. The Ertiga even managed a podium finish in February. This also says something about the volume potential of this segment.
The Mazda VX-1 is powered by a 1.4-liter petrol engine (Suzuki K-Series) that develops 95 PS @ 6,000 rpm and 130 Nm @ 4,000 rpm.
The Mazda version features chrome blades in the grille area. The rest of the body changes are improvisations of the Ertiga's styling. A part of the foglight enclosure has a gray accent and the same can be said for the lower intake's slats.
Parts that try distinguishing the side profile of the VX-1 from the Ertiga's are chrome door handles, a side skirt and a door moulding. The rear fascias are exactly the same if not for the Mazda badges and the LED stoplight on the bumper. Both models are seven seaters equipped with twin-blower air-conditioning units.
The base variant (V-Grade) has been priced at 10.07 lakh rupees, while the fully loaded R-Grade is priced at 10.76 lakh rupees.
For now, the Mazda VX-1 is available with a 5-speed manual transmission. As for safety features, the VX-1 has been equipped with dual airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) on the top-end R-Grade. The car is presented in six colors - Pearl White, Silky Silver Metallic, Graphite Grey Pearl Metallic, Black Pearl Metallic Cool, Dusky Brown Metallic and Radiant Red Pearl.
Understanding the limitations, Mazda plans to sell about 350 units of the VX-1 every month.
[Hat tip to Idhuy from autonetmagz.com]
