The third generation Maruti Dzire was
launched in May 2017. While a facelift is at least two years out, IAB's
automotive illustrator Shoeb R Kalania is speculating what is in store for
India's best-selling car.
The most prominent change to the front
is the grille with chrome wings stretching into the headlights as LED DRLs. It
gets six horizontal fins in a black finish. The bumper is transplanted from the
2018 Maruti Ciaz (facelift) incorporating C-shape chrome embellishments for the
fog lamp housing. The 5 split-spoke two-tone alloy wheels replace the current
model's design. A rub strip with chrome applique sits to the lower edge of the
doors.
By April 2020, the diesel variant of the
Dzire will swap the 1.3 L DDiS Fiat engine for a Suzuki-made 1.5 L unit, if the
new engine has passed Maruti's every expectation. A new diesel engine is
inevitable as the Fiat-sourced 1.3 L diesel engine will not be upgraded to meet
the BSVI emission norms coming into effect April 2020 onwards.
The third generation Maruti Dzire petrol
comes equipped with 1.2 L K12B engine. Both engine variants are available with
5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT options. The basic Dzire LXi petrol manual costs
INR 5.56 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). The top-end ZXi+ ATM costs INR 7.96 lakhs
(ex-showroom Delhi). The Maruti Dzire diesel range retails for INR 6.56-9.43
lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).
Over the next six months, Maruti plans
to launch the Ciaz facelift, followed by the 2018 Maruti Ertiga. In the last
quarter of 2018, the new Maruti Wagon R and its 7-seat variant are expected to
hit the market.
