Maruti Suzuki is known for its reliability ranging across all its automobiles. Although, the recent launch of “Kizashi” had been a bit disappointing ( because of the huge variation between the Concept Kizashi and the actual one that rolled out on Indian roads ) However, the latest news indicates that Maruti might discontinue its currently successful model SX4 towards the end of 2014 and roll out the new and revised replacement named Maruti Ciaz.
Ciaz made its first appearance at the 2014 Auto Expo and the Launch is expected in the last quarter of 2014.
[caption id="attachment_1713" align="aligncenter" width="560"]
Image Source: www.zigwheels.com[/caption] This shorter version of the SX4 is going to share a few similarities but the difference is going to be obvious. The Ciaz concept might have the looks and curves to drool for and it might look aggressively slender and creased with a lot of chrome, the real impact would be realized when the actual models roll out (Sigh!! how i wish there were limited edition concepts rolled out in the market) Rumored to have the bits and bobs of the Ertiga... Ciaz seems to have an adaptation from plenty of its cousins such as the SX4, Swift and Ertiga. Maruti has such similar elements and design aesthetics mated into its anticipated Ciaz making it worth the festive wait. INTERIORS: A beige colored interior might bring the interiors of the Ertiga to mind, however considering a makeover, Maruti is definitely going to focus on new and improved interiors. The supposedly premium interiors would sport an ergonomic design enough to accommodate 3 people comfortably.
[caption id="attachment_1711" align="aligncenter" width="630"]
Image Source: www.motortrend.in[/caption] ENGINE: Although Maruti hasn't declared anything about the exact technicalities or the specifications, the sedan would be launched in petrol and diesel options. The Ciaz might be available in 5 speed Automatic and base Manual models. Powered with a 1373 cc petrol engine, and 93.7 bhp at 6000 RPM ranging to 130 Nm at 4000 RPM, the Ciaz certainly churns out decent power packed to perform. Getting started with the engine and powering it up wouldn't really be concerning. The 1.3 litre multi jet DDiS Diesel engine would perform with an attitude of its own, it might produce power ranging between 103- 290 Nm to 118 Bhp-300 Bhp. It is believed that the engine might be transversely positioned such that the front wheels are powered. The variants will supposedly have 15 inch and 16 inch rims (depending on the variant) MILEAGE: One of the most sort out questions ever. What's the mileage? Well, based on the performance of the Ertiga, it can be anticipated that the Ciaz petrol should provide 15- 16 kmpl mileage (depending on the model) whereas, the diesel model should provide a mileage of 21-23 kmpl which goes far beyond ones expectations over such a sedan.
REVVING IT UP:
The 5-speed manual 1.4 litre petrol engine that reaches 0-100 in 13 seconds, would get you across an average of 150 km(per hr). The diesel engine however, would get you across the same (0-100) in 12 seconds and can range from 170-175 km(per hour) [caption id="attachment_1712" align="aligncenter" width="670"]
Image Source: www.techgangs.blogspot.com[/caption] The rear lights certainly look similar to the 5 series BMW lights. Impressive!!! ACCESSORIES: If you are waiting for the Ciaz, then Maruti is certainly not going to disappoint you. Providing an array of accessories, you can easily deck up your ride. You can choose from the following: Deck-lid spoiler, Body decals, revolutionary alloy wheels, roof rails etc. The upholstery can also be customized according to your choice. You'd be musically inclined too, the Ciaz would keep music a priority with a music system and features such as Bluetooth and multimedia options. The top end variants would sport A/C climate controls. The Steering would consist of an audio control panel, the car would also have a cooled glove box, and door pockets. You might also spoil yourself with Luxurious Leather seats (optional) BRAKES AND HANDLING: Maruti might grace Ciaz with the dynamic duo combination of its Conventional Disc and a Drum Brake. The front wheels might have ventilated disc brakes while the rear wheels would have drum brakes. The Ciaz would come with new features like the ABS and EBD which would enhance braking in tough conditions. SAFETY: Safety and security is going to be a priority. The Maruti Ciaz might contain a robust suspension mechanism that would give rise to perfect handling conditions. Loaded with a front Mc Pherson Strut system and a Rear Torson Beam rear axle fitted with coil springs, the sedan has a lot more offerings such as air bags, engine immobilizer, side impact beams and a central locking system. COMPETITION: As the anticipation goes, Maruti Ciaz might be available in petrol variants such as LXi, VXi and ZXi whereas the diesel variants would be available in LDi, VDi and ZDi variants. We can expect Maruti Suzuki to price it competitively. It might compete against the Honda City, Nissan Sunny, Renault Scala in the sedan segment. BOTTOM LINE: If you were a fan of the SX4 and if the concept has kept you waiting then, waiting for the roll out of the Maruti CIAZ would certainly be a wise decision. And if you are an impulsive buyer, you can choose between its competing models.