New Maruti Suzuki Swift RS likely to be launched in India instead of Swift Sport

Maruti Suzuki had launched the new Dzire compact sedan last week. The Indo-Japanese car maker also made it clear that there is no intention to launch Dzire RS version. The RS (Road Sport) version is exclusive for performance cars of the company and reports indicate that the next RS model would be new Swift.

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS hot hatch gets a head start

The next-gen Swift was unveiled in Japan in December 2016, which is due to launch in India next year. This new version will be followed by a sportier variant powered by the Boosterjet engine, reports Autocar.

The 1.0-litre BoosterJet turbo-petrol engine, which is tuned to churn out 100bhp at 5,500rpm and 150Nm of torque at 1,700 to 4,500rpm in the Baleno RS, is expected to power Swift RS as well without change in output. The Boosterjet engine originally slated over 110bhp. Maruti Suzuki reduced the power to 100bhp primarily to achieve impressive 21.1kmpl of fuel efficiency.

Swift RS is also expected to return fuel efficiency over 20kmpl.

Swift RS will look different than other Swift models, thanks to the exterior kit package just like Baleno RS. The kit will include tweaked front and rear bumper with sportier stance, mesh-type front grille and side skirts. The rear bumper is expected to get dual-tone finish and faux diffuser. The alloy wheels may get diamond-cut finish in dark shade.

If Maruti Suzuki goes ahead with the launch to Swift RS, the launch of Swift Sport is unlikely in India. Reports say the new Swift Sport will be powered by a 1.4-litre, direct injection mill from Boosterjet family. This engine is expected to belt out 138bhp and 220Nm of torque mated to six-speed manual gearbox. This engine is significantly powerful and it will not be as fuel efficient as the one on Baleno RS.