A launch at the 2016 Auto Expo seems viable.
Maruti's sub-4 meter SUV, codenamed 'YBA', was snapped testing in India by GaadiWaadi. The Ford EcoSport rival is expected to go on sale in the country in early-2016, with a possible launch at the Auto Expo 2016.
Meanwhile, parent Suzuki has announced the iM-4 mini SUV concept for the Geneva Motor Show which starts early next month. The iM-4 could serve as a design precursor to the YBA, with further styling cues expected to be derived from the iv-4 concept as well.
According to reports, the YBA will be powered by a new 1.5-liter diesel engine and a petrol engine which could be a 1.0-liter turbocharged unit or a 1.2-liter K-series motor. The compact SUV is reportedly based on the capable Swift's platform.
Also read: Suzuki SX4 S-Cross diesel to get AMT this year in Europe
Prior to the launch of the YBA, Maruti plans on introducing the SX4 S-Cross crossover with reports claiming a launch in May this year. The YBA compact SUV will be positioned below the S-Cross, though it remains to be seen if Maruti offers 4WD on either of these models.
Competitors: VW Taigun, Ford EcoSport, Honda Brio-based SUV, Tata Nexon, Mahindra S101
Expected Price: INR 5-8 lakhs, ex-showroom
Expected launch Date: Q1 2016
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross - Image Gallery (Unrelated)
[Spyshot from GaadiWaadi]
