Exclusive : Maruti & Toyota's Upcoming Mid-Size SUVs Spied [Creta Rival]

It is no secret that Maruti is working on an all-new SUV to rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. To be developed together with Toyota, this new product will be launched in India this year. What you see here are the first ever images of heavily camouflaged mules that 91Wheels Community Member spotted recently. On closer inspection, we also made a surprising conclusion - read on to know more!

Both Toyota and Maruti have been working together for years now. The Baleno based Glanza and Brezza based Urban Cruiser are two such examples. Going forward, Toyota will also launch their own version of the Ertiga and the Ciaz. Back to the upcoming SUV in question - while there is no official product name out yet, both Maruti and Toyota will launch this new Rs 12-16 lakh product before the end of this year. And yes, no diesel engine at launch.

As seen here, the two cars look sizeable with good ground clearance. The higher version (above) test mule was seen wearing 215mm wide Apollo Apterra tyres on 17 inch wheels. The front seems to be sharp and modern with pull back DRLs and bumper mounted headlights. No other design cue is apparent at the moment. We also managed to get a glimpse of the cabin but that was for the base model - a picture has been shared below.

On closer inspection, if you notice the front of both the versions, the bumpers and grille are a lot different. Does this mean both the Maruti iteration and Toyota's version were on test together? Very much! This also means prototype production could start in the next 2-3 months with possible launch around the festive season of Diwali. Should segment rivals be worried?

The new mid-size SUV, known internally as the YFG at Maruti's end and D22 at Toyota's end will come with a 1.5-litre petrol only option. However, it is believed to come with a proper hybrid set-up which means it will be able to run on battery on power. This will make it the most efficient SUV in its category. While the engine might not be turbo-charged, with the electric motor boost, overall output is expected to be great. The new SUV is based on an all new platform (for Indian market) that Toyota already uses in various international markets.

The new SUV will be made at Toyota's plant near Bangalore - this is true for the Maruti badged version as well. Both the companies will have to offer segment unique or segment leading features in this new vehicle. The Rs 12-16 lakh segment is crowded with options but Maruti and Toyota could offer a well packaged product to get their own share of the market. Stay tuned for more details!

These pictures were sent to us by 91Wheels community member Manoj who runs a Youtube Channel as well. If you have spotted a unique car or bike on test, do send across the pictures / videos to bunny.punia@unicorntechmedia.com and stand a chance to win cash and/or Amazon vouchers!
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