Maruti Suzuki Ignis likely to be launched with all-wheel drive option: Report

Maruti Suzuki is moving closer to the launch of the Ignis crossover in India, which has been confirmed for the festive season this year. Emerging reports say the first compact crossover of Maruti Suzuki will come with all-wheel drive option.

According to TeamBHP, the all-wheel drive system in the Ignis will be a full-time AWD unit. It will be front wheel driven in normal conditions and when sensors detect slippage it will automatically shift to all-wheel drive format. It will also have the option of locking the drive system at any time manually. A previous report had indicated that the Ignis will be offered in CVT against the touted AMT transmission. Reports also suggest a Harman made infotainment system will be part of the Ignis package.

Unveiled at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show last year, the Ignis made its India debut at the Auto Expo 2016. The compact crossover will be the third model to be sold though the Nexa premium dealership of Maruti Suzuki. Currently, Nexa has two models in its range — the premium hatchback Baleno and the premium crossover S-cross.

 Powering the Ignis is expected to be a 1.2-litre VTVT petrol engine and a 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel unit. The features expected in the Ignis include projector headlights, outside rear-view mirrors with turn indicators, 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear-mounted spoiler and LED headlights, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and airbags.

The Ignis measures 3,700mm in length, 1,660mm in width, and 1,595mm in height. The vehicle comes with a wheelbase of 2,435mm and has a ground clearance of 180mm. When launched, it will rival the Mahindra KUV100.