India-bound Maruti Suzuki Ignis launched in Japan

The market leader of the hatchback segment in India, Maruti Suzuki has recently launched its new Ignis in Japan that is later slated to come to India as well. Suzuki has also confirmed the features and specifications of its compact crossover.

The Ignis, which will compete in the ever growing hatchback segment, will have to stand out amongst the competition. It measures 3,700 mm in length, 1,660 mm in width, 1,595 mm in height, 2435 mm in wheelbase and 180 mm in ground clearance. Internationally the Suzuki Ignis is available in three distinct variants with each variant being further available with standard 2WD or optional AWD. We might not get to see the AWD in India cause the demand for the same would not justify the cost involved.

We can expect Maruti’s 1.2-litre petrol engine and 1.3-litre DDiS diesel power plants to power the Ignis is India. Additionally Maruti could also consider their 1.2-litre four-cylinder K12C DualJet with VVT with mild-hybrid technology to help with the new emission norms being put in place. In Japan, this car is only available in a CVT gearbox option, but paddle shifters are included.

The Suzuki Ignis gets a raft of safety equipment which includes dual front, side and curtain airbags, ABS and EBD, lane departure warning, ESP, Hill-Hold, Hill Descent control, automatic headlights with automatic leveling, LED headlights and LED foglights.

Other features include automatic climate control, cruise control, keyless entry with engine starter button, Bluetooth-enabled music system, heated front seats, regenerative braking, UV- and IR-cut glass and 175/60 tyres with 16-inch aluminium wheels.

The Ignis is confirmed to have its Indian premiere at the Auto Expo 2016, which starts on February 3, 2016. The Indian market launch of the Ignis is reported to take place in the festive period season this year. When launched, reports state it will be sold from Maruti’s NEXA outlets.