Thaindian News

New Delhi, Jan 6 (IANS) Automobile giant Maruti Suzuki Friday entered the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment with the unveiling of the Ertiga on the second day of the Auto Expo here.

“The global premiere of the utility vehicle portfolio at the Auto Expo is a reflection of the company’s preparedness for the future competitive scenario,” said Shinzo Nakanishi, managing director and chief executive, Maruti Suzuki.

According to Nakanishi, the compact seven seater car will hit the markets in April. The company, however did not divulge the price range of the vehicle.

The company said that the utility vehicle segment has a 14 percent share of the Indian automobile market. In turn, the MPV constitutes 66 percent of the total utility vehicle segment.

“As India gears to be amongst the largest automobile markets by 2020, with the foray in the UV segment, Maruti Suzuki would strengthen its position in the industry,” Nakanishi said.

With the launch of the Ertiga, the company will introduce its K-series 1.4 litre VVT engine in India. The diesel variant will be available soon.

The car boasts of running 20.77 km per litre and 16.02 km per litre in its diesel and petrol variants.

Rival automaker Hyundai entered the MPV segment with the unveiling of Hexa Space, set to roll out in February, on the first day of the Auto Expo.

– Indo-Asian News Service
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