In the coming months, three all-new seven-seater cars are expected to be launched in India and two of them are MPVs
The Citroen C3 Aircross, based on the same CMP platform as the C3 hatchback, will launch in the coming months while the Maruti Suzuki Engage will come to the fore early next month. The badge-engineered Ertiga also appears to be in the pipeline wearing a Toyota badge. Here we have covered all the necessary details.
1. Maruti Suzuki Engage:
Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) has invited media for the launch of an all-new premium MPV on July 5. It will become the most expensive car from the brand as it will sit at the top of the range as the flagship offering. Likely christened the Engage, it will be retailed exclusively through Nexa premium outlets. It will be rolled out of Toyota’s manufacturing unit in Bidadi, Karnataka.
The Maruti Suzuki Engage will be the rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross and it will have exterior changes taking inspiration from the Grand Vitara. The features list will remain similar to its donor and it will be equipped with ADAS tech. As for the performance, a 2.0L NA petrol and a 2.0L strong hybrid petrol engine will be utilised.
2. Toyota Rebadged Ertiga:
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is widely reported to be working on a badge engineered version of Ertiga for the domestic market. It must be noted that the Japanese auto major already sells the Rumion in South Africa, which is a badge swapped Ertiga. For India though, Toyota could apply substantial cosmetic revisions to differentiate itself from its donor.
Under the bonnet, the familiar 1.5L four-cylinder K15C mild-hybrid petrol engine will be used. It will be paired with a five-speed manual transmission as standard and a six-speed torque converter automatic unit as an option. Expect it to be sold in an expansive range and it will be positioned well below the Toyota Innova Crysta.
3. 7-Seater Citroen C3 Aircross:
A few weeks ago, Citroen showcased the C3 Aicross midsize SUV in India. It will compete against a number of popular SUVs including Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. However, from the word go, it will be available in both five- and seven-seater configurations. Both are expected to be competitively priced and will target buyers seeking affordable options.