Maruti Kizashi to launch in India

India's largest passenger car manufacturer and second largest passenger car exporter, Maruti is planning to launch premium sedan model Maruti Kizashi in Indian auto market. Maruti Suzuki is well known for its small car supremacy as its all small car models including Maruti 800, Maruti Alto, Maruti A-Star, Maruti Wagon R and Maruti Swift has done well in Indian market. Maruti has also got success in entry level sedan segment with its popular model Maruti Swift Dzire but in premium sedan segment its model Maruti SX4 is facing tough competition with Honda City, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Verna and Fiat Linea. So Maruti is planning to enter premium sedan segment with Maruti Kizashi that might be showcased at Delhi Auto Expo 2010. Maruti, however, has not yet officially announced the launch date of Kizashi in Indian market.

It is expected that the model will be priced in the range of Rs 12 to 15 lacs. Maruti Kizashi will be powered by the 2.4L, DOHC, in-line four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission gearbox that can produce 180Bhp of maximum power with 230.35Nm of maximum torque. This higher level of power and torque results in excellent acceleration and performance. This engine is currently powering the company's popular SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) model Maruti Grand Vitara. Maruti Kizashi will be available with 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) option that makes it a hotly contested model in the mid-sized sedan segment. The company has already launched Kizashi model in Japan and US market and is enjoying good market response there.