Maruti Suzuki India, the leader in the passenger vehicle market, is gearing up to unveil an all-new premium MPV on July 5, 2023. This upcoming MPV, possibly named the Engage, is a collaborative effort with Toyota and will occupy the apex of Maruti Suzuki’s lineup. Drawing inspiration from the popular Innova Hycross, the MPV will exhibit distinctive styling cues, setting it apart from its Toyota counterpart. Prospective buyers can anticipate its availability from late July, exclusively through Maruti Suzuki’s premium Nexa dealerships.
Aligned with the established pattern of differentiation in shared models between Maruti Suzuki and Toyota, the Maruti rendition of the Innova Hycross will boast subtle design differentiators. Leaked design patents hint at a fresh grille marked by a honeycomb mesh pattern accentuated by chrome trim. The grille’s center will feature two horizontal chrome bars seamlessly connecting the headlamps on either side. The front bumper will sport a notable lip with a simulated brushed aluminum finish, echoing the appeal of a skid plate. These design flourishes resonate with the Grand Vitara, extending to minor adjustments in the rear bumper’s appearance.
While maintaining the overall form of the headlamps and tail-lamps, the internal structure and graphics will exhibit individuality. The forthcoming Maruti MPV is anticipated to integrate the brand’s signature ‘three dots’ LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), reminiscent of the Grand Vitara and Baleno, aligning the MPV with other Nexa offerings.
The Maruti MPV will adopt the Toyota New Global Architecture-C (TNGA-C) platform, sharing the naturally aspirated petrol and potent hybrid petrol engines featured in the Innova Hycross.
This premium MPV marks a significant first in the Toyota-Suzuki alliance initiated in 2017. While past collaborations included cross-badging Suzuki models as Toyotas, the upcoming MPV marks the first instance of a Toyota product being rebadged for Maruti Suzuki. Produced by Toyota Kirloskar Motor at its Bidadi facility, this vehicle will be supplied to Maruti Suzuki.
The Innova Hycross, already in high demand with extended waiting periods, underscores the popularity of Toyota’s offerings. Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s decision to halt bookings for top trims due to the surge in demand raises questions about the potential supply to Maruti Suzuki.
As Maruti Suzuki gears up for the launch of its premium MPV, industry enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the synergistic outcome of this alliance with Toyota, poised to make a notable impact in India’s MPV segment.