A while ago, Suzuki showcased their ‘Authentics’ Concept sedan to the world. The concept looked quite modern and appealing. And now, CarnewsChina.com reports that Suzuki will start its manufacturing from the second half of 2014.
The production version of the car will result in a D-segment sedan more in competition with Cruze and the likes. Price is estimated to range between 100,000 to 150,000 yuan (approximately between 10 Lakh to 15 Lakh in INR). This against the 188.800 yuan (over 19 Lakhs INR) the Kizashi retails for, being a direct import in China.
Authentics will be first Suzuki sedan to be manufactured in China and will be available with a 1.6L 122hp 158Nm petrol motor which will be mated to both 5 speed manual and CVT transmission along with a 1.8L engine as well.
In India, Maruti Suzuki is already preparing a new sedan codenamed as ‘YL1’ based on the Authentics concept which will replace the ailing SX4. It has been spied on tests several times and launch is expected sometime around the same 2014 second half (3rd quarter of 2014). It will be produced at Manesar plant but is expected to be a C-segment sedan more in line with the Vernas and Citys.
And hence, it is expected to get a smaller 1.4L K-Series petrol engine from Ertiga and the 1.3L DDIS in a better state of tune. We wish, Maruti gets in the 1.6L Multijet from Fiat for YL1 as well to make it a more luring prospect. The YL1 looks big for a car of its segment like the SX4 and shares a lot of commonality with the Authentics concept. You can check out clearer spyshots of Indian ‘YL1‘ here.
The question that remains to be seen is” Will Maruti finally succeed in this segment, with YL1?”
Also Read: List of Upcoming Maruti’s SUVs/Crossovers
