Affordable, premium Maruti hatchback in works?
Of late, Maruti has been quite busy with new car launches. Earlier this month, it launched the Grand Vitara. The Grand Vitara is the brand’s latest addition to its Nexa line of products. For context, Nexa is Maruti’s sub-brand that offers a catalogue of premium cars. Now, Maruti Nexa offers the Baleno in terms of hatchbacks. So what more can Maruti add to its Nexa lineup of hatchbacks? One product that was being touted earlier was the XL5. The XL5 was said to be the more premium version of the popular WagonR. In today’s article, let’s talk about this premium Maruti hatchback and whether it is relevant for the future.
Design
As mentioned above, the XL5 was touted be the premium version of the WagonR. So it could carry forward the overall boxy silhouette of the WagonR. What else could Maruti change? The XL5 could come with an updated front look with eyebrow DRL positioned above the headlamps. Other changes over the WagonR could include Nexa-specific colours, redesigned bumpers, new alloy wheels and a blacked-out grille.
What about the interior? Being a Nexa product, it could get premium interiors. Maruti may give it leather upholstery and seats. Other expected additions could include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a modern instrument cluster, and all adjustable headrests.
Premium Maruti hatchback – Specifications
Like all newer Maruti cars, the XL5 will be based on the Heartect platform. What about engine specifications? It could share its engine options with the WagonR. So, a 1.0-litre K10C petrol engine capable of producing 66bhp & 89Nm of torque and a 1.2-litre K12N petrol engine capable of producing 89bhp & 113Nm of torque could be on offer. Maruti might also offer factory-fitted CNG kit similar to the WagonR. Transmission options COULD include a manual and an AMT gearbox.
Features
Features have become the heart & soul of the car buying experience. Maruti has figured this out and has loaded its newer cars with features. The XL5 could come with features like Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, reverse parking camera, SmartPlay infotainment, automatic climate control and cruise control. What about safety? Safety features could include six airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX.
Premium Maruti hatchback – Launch
There is no official confirmation from Maruti regarding the XL5. Moreover, if we look at the current Nexa lineup, it becomes clear that fitting another premium hatchback in the space is tough. Why? Because Maruti already caters to its premium buyers with options like the Ignis and the Baleno. Now, Baleno has already been updated and the Ignis is being said to receive a major update that will help it take on the Tata Punch more fiercely. However, since a WagonR that fits the bill has been spotted multiple times, completely denying the speculation is also wrong.
Do you think a premium Maruti WagonR makes sense? Do let us know in the comments.
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