The highest-selling compact SUV, which was diesel-only till now, is moving to a petrol-only format courtesy BS6 norms. Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza is now powered by Suzuki’s K15B 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces 105bhp. The transition to petrol happened because the Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre diesel engine could not be upgraded to meet the new emission norms.
A 4-speed automatic is available as an option. The automatic gets Suzuki’s SHVS Smart Hybrid tech while the manual doesn’t. The prices will see a change as petrol engines only under 1200cc are taxed lower for sub 4-metre vehicles.
The ARAI-rated efficiency for the manual variant is 17.03kpl while the automatic, with the mild-hybrid tech, is rated at 18.76kpl.
Exterior designs changes are minimal with new chrome trim near the headlights and large DRLs. There’s a new alloy design. The bumper design is also new. Interiors remain more or less similar with a new SmartPlay Studio 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control and automatic wipers on offer now.
Safety-wise, the SUV gets the same dual airbags and ABS. The Vitara Brezza had earned a four stars rating in the Global NCAP test in 2018.
It will be interesting to see how the market responds to the petrol-only model. Maruti is confident that it will not hamper sales.
