GaadiWaadi has posted a spyshot of the 2018 Maruti Ciaz DDiS diesel variant, pouring cold water over rumours which stated that the diesel variant would not be available at launch. According to the new report, the 2018 Ciaz diesel will be available from the get-go but will see updates later in the year.

For the time being, the 2018 Ciaz diesel will use the Fiat-sourced 1.3-liter DDiS four-cylinder unit developing 90 PS and 200 Nm of torque, however, towards the end of the year, Maruti will replace it with its own self-developed 1.5-liter diesel engine, says the report.

The Ciaz here is not the top-end Alpha variant as evidenced from its non-diamond cut 15-inch alloy wheels (the Alpha variant gets 16-inch alloy wheels with a more premium look), and lack of LED daytime running lights, which Maruti has confirmed for the 2018 Ciaz. Instead, the headlight cluster gets chrome elements, and the foglight enclosure gets a silver applique. The 'DDiS' badge continues to be placed on the fender.

As compared to the current Ciaz which got the SHVS mild-hybrid technology only with the diesel engine, the 2018 Ciaz will feature SHVS on petrol and diesel variants. The former also gets the new 1.5-liter K15B petrol engine with expected power and torque outputs of 103 bhp and 138 Nm and will be offered with 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic 'boxes.

The 2018 Ciaz is reported to launch on August 20, with bookings commencing at all NEXA outlets today. Maruti has manufactured over 7,000 units of the new Ciaz anticipating strong demand.