Maruti Suzuki's plan to launch an MPV that sits below the Ertiga has been doing the rounds over the internet for quite some time. Maurti Suzuki reportedly imported the WagonR based MPV codenamed YJC in India last year to check the feasibility. Emerging reports indicate Maruti Suzuki is going ahead with the plan and the vehicle would be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine.
The three-cylinder engine that has been designed and developed by Suzuki reports MotorOctane. The engine is expected to make about 75bhp of power and about 105Nm of torque mated to five-speed manual.
On the design front, the MPV will also look like the WagonR. Maruti Suzuki will extend the wheelbase slightly to accommodate a third row. The MPV will offer 5+2 seating, while leg space at the third row will be sufficient for kids only. The seven-seater Wagon R will get similar interiors that of the current Wagon R and there will be some additional features too.
According to the records of Zauba, which tracks the record of India's import and export data, Maruti has imported two units of new WagonR MPV YJC to India for research and development (R&D) purpose last year. The YJC -- which is imported to India as CBU from Japan -- measures 3700mm in length.
The WagonR MPV will be pitted against Datsun Go+ MPV and prices are estimated to be in the range of Rs. 5.5 lakh to Rs. 6.5 lakh. Market entry of the vehicle can be expected in early 2017.
