Spotted: Maruti Swift Hybrid Testing in India With New Tech!

The fourth-generation Maruti Suzuki Swift had big shoes to fill when it was launched in May this year, and it undoubtedly managed to maintain its legacy. The hatchback features a more mature and evolutionary design, an upmarket interior packed with additional features, enhanced safety fitments, and a more fuel-efficient Z-Series petrol engine. It is available in five trims – LXi, VXi, VXi (O), ZXi, and ZXi (O) – priced between ₹6.49 lakh and ₹9.64 lakh (ex-showroom).

Maruti Swift Hybrid Spotted

What’s making headlines is the sighting of the Swift hybrid in Bengaluru. The model, caught on camera, features a ‘Hybrid’ badge and a “Test Vehicle” sticker on the driver’s door, along with mic and camera icons. Interestingly, the Maruti Swift hybrid was completely uncovered and painted in a Magma Grey Metallic color scheme, hinting at the possible launch of a mild hybrid version.

Is It For ADAS Testing?

Speculation is also rife that the model might be undergoing tests to fine-tune Maruti Suzuki’s ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite for Indian road conditions. Earlier this year, Suzuki confirmed it was working on ADAS technology for the Indian market. Notably, the fourth-gen Swift was spotted with a radar and a blind spot monitoring system before its official launch. However, the production version ultimately skipped these features.

ADAS For Future Maruti Offerings!

The forthcoming Maruti e-Vitara electric SUV could be the brand’s first model to feature the ADAS suite. ADAS might also be introduced in the Grand Vitara and its upcoming 7-seater SUV derivative, scheduled for launch in 2025. Currently, Maruti Suzuki’s flagship offering, the Invicto, does not include the ADAS suite.

Maruti’s Strong Hybrid Tech

For reference, the Maruti Swift hybrid is available in global markets with a 1.2L, 3-cylinder petrol engine paired with 12V mild hybrid technology. This setup, offered with both a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed CVT gearbox, produces 82bhp and 112Nm of torque. For the Indian market, Maruti Suzuki is developing its own strong hybrid technology, set to debut with the Maruti Suzuki Fronx facelift in 2025.

Codenamed HEV, this strong hybrid powertrain will feature a series hybrid setup that is significantly more affordable than Toyota’s series-parallel hybrid technology. The Indo-Japanese automaker plans to introduce its strong hybrid powertrain across its mass-market models, including the Swift, Baleno, Brezza, and more.

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