Only yesterday, it was reported that co-developed Maruti Suzuki and Toyota premium B-SUVs are in the pipeline. A new report says that this model will be based on the DNGA platform of the recently unveiled Toyota Raize and the soon-to-be-launched (in Japan) Daihatsu Rocky.
The upcoming SUV duo will primarily target the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos and will make use of Toyota-Daihatsu’s DNGA modular platform that has been designed specifically for the developing markets. While the Toyota Raize is 4 metres long, these SUVs' length will span around 4.3 metres which will be comparable to Hyundai Creta's 4,270 mm length, and Kia Seltos 4,315 mm length.
The new SUV produced under the Toyota-Suzuki partnership will be sold by Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Maruti Suzuki independently, but they will wear different 'top hats' and styling on the outside. Expect an upright stance, large wheel arches and wheel sizes of up to 17 inches to be the common design features. Also, there is a good possibility that the Vitara Brezza might serve a design inspiration for Suzuki's version of this SUV, seeing the cult it has managed to develop over the years. While on the inside, both SUVs will share certain components but will be differentiated by brand-specific styling.
As for the mechanicals, nothing concrete is in the know, but the SUV is expected to draw power from Maruti Suzuki's 1.5-litre petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech. Expect it to be offered with 5-speed MT and CVT options.
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Expect the new Toyota SUVs to come out in 2022. Furthermore, the Toyota-Suzuki partnership will also churn out a C-segment MPV in 2023. Both the models will be produced at Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s facility in Bidadi.
[Source: Autocar India]
