Nowadays, every car maker is trying to gain a share in the compact crossover segment. With the S-Cross, Maruti Suzuki is trying to capture a share in the crossover-SUV segment. In February this year, Maruti Suzuki India Limted had showcased the S-Cross at the Auto Expo 2014. Now, the car has been spotted testing near the Maruti Suzuki plant in Gurgaon.
In the international markets, the Suzuki S-Cross is available with ‘Allgrip’ all-wheel-drive system. It is uncertain whether the same will be offered in the Indian version. The S-Cross features off-roader characteristics like high ground clearance, black cladding all around and metal scuff plates at the front and rear.
The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross will come with the following changes when compared to model shown at Auto Expo 2014 :
- Daytime Running LED’s have been given a miss
- Projector headlamps are also absent from the test mule
- The car features a hood scoop which was absent on the model showcased at the Expo
- The front grille is revised with two slats instead of four on the international variant
- The test mule doesn’t feature the wing mirrors with integrated turn indicators
The interiors of the Indian version of the car will sport a two-tone beige and black color scheme and will come with a lot of equipment on the offer. Much of the switchgear and even the steering wheel will be shared with other Maruti models to keep costs in check.
The S-Cross is expected to be powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine. This unit will be sourced from Fiat, which also provides the 1.3 liitre diesel motor to Maruti and other car makers in India.This 1.6 litre block churns out 118 bhp of max power and 32 kgm of peak torque and is expected to come mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross is likely to be priced at around INR 13-14 lakh and will compete with the Nissan Terrano, Renault Duster and the upcoming Hyundai compact SUV.