Maruti Suzuki India Limited launched the new Swift at the 2018 Auto Expo earlier this year. This was about a few months after the global launch of Swift hatchback and its sportier version – Swift Sport, which is powered by a 140 PS turbo motor. In most countries where the Swift is on sale, the Swift Sport is also on offer. But in India, which registers the most sales for the Swift hatchback, Swift Sport is not on offer.
The reason, market research done by the company reveals that there would not be enough buyers for that car. If launched in India, with same specs and features as seen in international spec Swift Sport, the car could cost in the region of Rs 15-20 lakhs.
But there is a growing segment of buyers who are in the market to pay for performance in the entry level segment. To cater to this segment, Tata launched the Tiago JTP and Tigor JTP last week. It is now being reported that Maruti is also planning on launching a sportier version of the Swift in India, to take on the Tiago JTP. This will not be Swift Sport, but Swift RS.
Maruti Swift RS will sport similar updates as seen on the Baleno RS. It will get a sportier stance as compared to its regular model with new front bumpers, side skirts and a roof mounted spoiler while body graphics will enhance its sportier appeal. For improved handling, the Maruti Suzuki RS could offer the car with 16” alloy wheels, get disc brakes on all four wheels and stiffer suspension. Interiors will also be given a sporty look with sporty seats and RS branding. It will be seen with an all black cabin with Burning Red trims on central console, instrument cluster, front doors and steering wheel.
The Swift RS could be powered by the same 1.0 litre BoosterJet turbocharged petrol engine that also powers the Baleno RS. This 998cc, Boosterjet, 3 cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine offers 101 bhp power at 5,500 rpm and 150 Nm torque at 1,750-4,500 rpm, mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox sending power to front wheels. This engine would command a top speed of 160 kmph while acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph would be achieved in 11-12 seconds.
Positioned below Baleno RS, prices of the Swift RS could also be lower. The Maruti Suzuki Swift top spec petrol variant is currently priced at Rs 7.31 lakhs and hence the Swift RS could come in from a base price of Rs 7.80 lakhs. Maruti Suzuki Swift RS is expected for launch in India by mid 2019.