Maruti Baleno Crossover SUV: Top 5 Things to Know

The upcoming Maruti Suzuki Crossover SUV codenamed YTB will be based on the Baleno; launch expected in April 2023.

Maruti Suzuki is currently leading the passenger vehicle segment in the Indian car market. Well known for its aggressive product strategy, the carmaker has already launched 5 models till now in 2022 and is in no mood to slow down. The homegrown automaker is currently working on a slew of new product introductions which are planned for launch in the coming few years. One of such products is the crossover SUV codenamed YTB which will be based on the Maruti Baleno. New details emerging confirm that the car will be here before we can anticipate.

As a result, here are ‘Top 5 Things to Know’ about project YTB

Maruti Suzuki YTB - Market Segmentation:

The project YTB will be identical to the Baleno hatchback in dimensions. The SUV will target the highly competitive sub 4-metre segment and will sit in between the premium hatch and the Brezza SUV.  The new crossover will receive excise tax benefit due to its smaller 1.2-litre engine borrowed from the hatchback.

Maruti Suzuki YTB - Powertrain and Platform:

The vehicle is expected to come powered by the same 1.2 litre K12N petrol engine seen on the Baleno but with a higher state of tune to compensate for the crossover’s additional weight. The four wheeler will be offered with both a 5-speed manual and AMT transmission. The YTB SUV will be based on the same Heartech platform and will share several components with the Baleno hatchback.

Maruti Suzuki YTB – Design:

It will adopt the design from Maruti Suzuki Futuro-E Concept which was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. The overall design will most likely have an SUVish stance with boxy design elements. This type of styling will enhance the overall liking for the vehicle among the Indian customers, who admire their boxy SUV styling like none other.

Maruti Suzuki YTB – Production:

The crossover will be manufactured at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat plant and aims to capture a major chunk of the market with its budget friendly pricing.

Maruti Suzuki YTB - Launch Timeline and Rivals:

Project YTB is expected to make its debut in April 2023 with deliveries scheduled for the second half of 2023. The crossover SUV is likely to have a starting price of Rs. 7.5 lakhs (ex-showroom) approximately.

Once launched, the YTB SUV will rival the likes of Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, XUV 300 and Tata Nexon in its segment.