Maruti Swift automatic launch set to happen, S-Cross and Dzire AMT versions are expected to be launched soon
India’s largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki India, is eyeing towards offering automatic technology equipped variants across every segment. At present, Maruti offers automatic variants in the Celerio, Alto K10, WagonR, Dzire, Baleno, Ertiga and Ciaz. The models that have huge potential if automatic transmission employed are the best-selling Swift hatchback and the newly launched S-Cross crossover.
The launch of AMT equipped variants has been confirmed by Maruti. The automatic variants of compact hatchback Celerio and Alto K10 models comprise nearly a quarter of the total sales of the models put together. Maruti retailed over 50,000 automatic units of these models till the end of September. While Alto swept monthly sales of close to 20,000 units, the Celerio recorded an average monthly sales of around 8,000 units.
The AMT variants of the Maruti Suzuki models is priced around Rs. 30,000-50,000 higher when compared to manual versions while a CVT and other automatic gearboxes have a price difference of around Rs. 90,000-100,000. It’s widely known that since the CVT technology reduces fuel efficiency, it won’t be a success among entry-level customers and thus was installed in premium cars.
The much anticipated model of the Maruti lot to receive an automatic variant is the Swift hatchback which has been ending up in the top five on the monthly sales charts regularly. The recent establishment of Magneti Marelli’s manufacturing plant at Manesar will only aid Maruti’s cause of bringing in automatic variants across different segments.
Maruti can now install AMT gearboxes on all cars if it wants to at a reasonable increase in costs with the arrival of Magneti Marelli in India. The S-Cross could get a premium CVT gearbox as seen in foreign markets whilst the Dzire sedan could be updated from four-speed autobox to CVT as well.
Automatic transmissions are more easier to pair with all types of engines – the main reason for its success with manufacturers and customers alike at a low cost. Expect the automatic version of Swift hatchback to launch very soon whilst the S-Cross and Dzire automatic variants could also follow in the second quarter of 2016.
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