Maruti Suzuki Readies Wagon R MUV to Rival Datsun Go+: Launch Likely in 2016

Maruti Suzuki, the country's largest car maker, is leaving no stone unturned in its attempt to firm up its position in the burgeoning segments SUV and Crossover.

Now the latest buzz that is whirling on the Internet is that Maruti is readying a new Wagon R-based MUV for the Indian market. It would likely see the light of the day during the festive season of 2016.

Codenamed YJC, the upcoming 7-seater MUV will be positioned above Maruti's popular hatchback Wagon R and below the Ertiga.

A new report of Economic Times claims that Maruti is currently holding talks with its vendors and suppliers for sourcing the components, with a target to sell over 80,000 units in the first year.

At this point of time, details about the Maruti MUV are scanty, however, emerging reports suggest that the new model will be based on the company's much popular tall-boy designed hatchback Wagon R.

When launched, the MUV will be pitched against Datusn's upcoming Go+. The Go+ MPV, a sub-four metre vehicle from Nissan's low-cost brand Datsun, is expected to reach Indian shores in early 2015.

As for the engines, the Wagon R MUV is likely to get power from the engine used for Swift and Ritz.

The engine line-up is likely to include 1,198cc three-cylinder, 12-valve petrol motor under the hood, which can churn out a power of 68PS @5,000rpm and a peak torque of 104nm @4,000rpm, coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox.

Maruti is also planning to expand its AMT portfolio in India with the launch of a new Wagon R Stingray AMT model.