Maruti Suzuki Ciaz 2018: What We Know So Far

The Ciaz facelift will get pretty significant changes under the hood along with additional features

Pictured: Suzuki Alivio facelift (China-spec Ciaz)

Maruti is prepping up to launch the midlife facelift of the Ciaz in the coming months. While the aesthetic changes are likely to be limited, the updated midsize Maruti sedan will get mechanical changes along with several new features as well. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming facelift so far.

Launch 

Maruti is likely to launch the Ciaz facelift around August 2018 and it will be retailed through the automaker’s Nexa channel, like outgoing model. Pre-launch bookings are expected to start in the month of July 2018.

Aesthetic changes

As indicated by various spy shots, the Ciaz will receive subtle aesthetic changes with the upcoming facelift model. Expect a redesigned front and rear bumpers along with a new set of alloy wheels. 

The China-spec Ciaz received a facelift last year. And while the pre-facelift China- and India-spec models used to look largely similar, the India-spec Ciaz facelift is likely to look a bit different this time around. The rear profile, however, might be the same as the China-spec car, featuring updated tail lamps (much like the Ciaz concept) and dual-tone bumper.

Pictured: Suzuki Alivio facelift (China-spec Ciaz)

The cabin is expected to be carried forward with subtle differences such as the Baleno-like colour-TFT multi-info display and new upholstery. 

Engine and transmission 

Petrol

The Ciaz facelift will debut Suzuki’s new 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine in the country. It will be equipped with Suzuki’s SHVS mild-hybrid tech, which is seen only with the diesel engine right now. The Ciaz facelift will be the first petrol offering from Maruti Suzuki to feature SHVS.

We expect Maruti Suzuki to replace the ageing 4-speed AT with a new 6-speed AT (torque converter). The addition of a new automatic transmission will certainly make the updated sedan more competitive against rivals such as the Verna (6-speed AT), City (CVT with paddle shifters), Yaris (CVT with paddle shifters) and the Vento (7-speed dual-clutch AT). The 6-speed AT is available with the Ciaz in China and that too with paddle shifters, albeit with a 1.6-litre petrol engine.

And while the outgoing 1.4-litre petrol is rated at 20.73kmpl, the new motor is expected to return an efficiency in the vicinity of 22kmpl, thanks to SHVS. So, the Ciaz facelift might become the most fuel-efficient petrol car in its segment. 

Diesel 

Maruti Suzuki is developing a new 1.5-litre diesel engine. The upcoming second-gen Ertiga was recently spied with a 6-speed manual, indicating that it might be powered by the new diesel engine. However, it remains to be seen whether Maruti would put the new engine under the Ciaz' hood first or not.

Features 

Lights:  The Ciaz is the only car in Maruti’s Nexa lineup that doesn’t feature LED headlamps and daytime running LEDs. But that is expected to change with the facelift as the updated model should get LED headlamps and DRLs. More so, since relatively cheaper models such as the Swift, Dzire and the Ignis get the same.

Audio:  It will carry forward the same 7-inch infotainment system that comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The unit will be coupled to a six-speaker system as before. 

Wheels and tyres: The Ciaz facelift will continue to ride on 195/55 cross-section R16 tyres. However, it is expected to get a new set of alloys. Expect machine finished ones like Honda offers with the City.

Comfort features: The Ciaz is already loaded with features such as passive keyless entry with push-button engine start/stop, auto climate control with rear AC vents, leather upholstery and auto-dimming IRVM. With the facelift, it should also get rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, cruise control and maybe a sunroof as well (China-spec model offers one). Both of its prime rivals, the City and the Verna also get a sunroof.

Price 

The Ciaz is expected to be priced in the same range as the outgoing model. Currently, its prices range from Rs 7.83 lakh to Rs 11.51 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Check out: Toyota Yaris vs Hyundai Verna vs Honda City: Petrol Automatic Comparison Review

Read More on : Ciaz on road price