Based on Toyota’s B560 platform, the new Maruti Suzuki MPV sits between the Ertiga and Toyota Innova Crysta
Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) is planning a massive expansion strategy for its premium NEXA portfolio. As part of this, the Indian automaker will be introducing two new products: an SUV or compact crossover based on the current-gen Toyota Raize’s DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture) platform and a ‘C-segment MPV’.
We have already discussed the possibilities of Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming SUV. It could be bigger compared to the Toyota Raize or Daihatsu Rocky to become an effective rival to Hyundai Motor India’s Creta and Kia Motors India’s Seltos. The power plant could be different and more powerful as well compared to today’s premium Maruti Suzuki products.
On the other hand, Maruti Suzuki’s new MPV project employs Toyota’s B560 platform. Aimed to fill the wide gap between the Toyota Innova Crysta and Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, the NEXA MPV is expected to launch sometime in 2023. The Indian market is witnessing high demand for SUVs (mostly front-wheel-drive crossovers marketed as SUVs) and MPVs. Here’s what to expect in Maruti Suzuki’s relatively affordable alternative to the Innova Crysta:
Maruti Suzuki’s New MPV
Maruti Suzuki already has the XL6 as a premium NEXA product. However, it is somewhat between a crossover (or SUV in the eyes of the average Indian buyer) and an MPV with enough space for six passengers — as the ‘6’ suggests. Its 7-seater ‘XL7’ version has already debuted in certain ASEAN markets.
It is too early to make any conclusions on its looks and features but multiple sources state that it will get sliding doors (most likely manual units). In the modern era, sliding doors are usually associated with bigger minivans such as the Kia Carnival. However, Maruti Suzuki is not new to sliding doors for middle-row passengers. Notable examples include the Eeco, Omni and Versa.
Toyota is still working on its first ‘C-MPV’ under B560 platform. In India, it would primarily rival Mahindra’s Marazzo MPV, which is yet to receive BS6 update. The Mahindra Marazzo is arguably one of the most underrated products in India since it offers enough for a significant price cut from the bigger Toyota Innova Crysta.
Specs & Pricing
Higher Maruti Suzuki products are powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine making around 103bhp @ 6,000rpm and 138Nm @ 4,400rpm. In the upcoming MPV, Maruti Suzuki might employ an all-new Toyota engine with enough output to suit the segment. One can expect its ex-showroom pricing to start from Rs 13-15 lakh.
