Maruti Suzuki has launched the 2023 version of the Ignis hatchback in India, with prices starting at Rs 5.82 lakh (ex-showroom), a price hike of Rs 27,000 from the outgoing version. The updated model is now BS6 Phase 2 and Real Driving Emission (RDE) norm compliant.
The updated Ignis hatchback retains its 83 Bhp, 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is paired with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT gearbox. However, Maruti has updated the engine to meet the upcoming RDE regulations. The updated engine offers a claimed fuel efficiency of 20.89kpl.
Also read: Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo: New details surface
Additionally, Maruti has made Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Hill-Hold assist standard across all trims of the Ignis, providing additional safety features. Visually, the little SUV remains exactly the same as before.
Who is the Ignis aimed at?
The Maruti Ignis hatchback is aimed at all those who want the stance of a crossover in a compact, affordable hatchback. As would be the case with any decent crossover, the Maruti Ignis offers plenty of ground clearance – 180 mm to be precise. This, along with short overhangs makes the Ignis quite a capable car across all sorts of roads, and even the occasional off road detour.
As for competition, the Maruti Ignis squares off against the likes of the Tata Punch and the Citroen C3. While the Punch is a micro SUV, the C3 is a high-riding hatchback just like the Ignis.
RDE is the new buzzword in the Indian car universe
RDE stands for real time driving emissions, and is basically the second stage of the BS6 (Bharat Stage 6) norms. RDE aims to make cars’ tail pipe emissions even cleaner, with the bonus of better fuel efficiency.
Other recent vehicles that were update to RDE-compliant are the Brezza, Honda Amaze compact sedan, Tata Punch mini-SUV, and Hyundai Creta compact SUV. The price hike of the Ignis is along expected lines, and most car manufacturers have announced minor hikes with their 2023 updated models.
Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest automaker, has faced production disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted the supply chain of essential components. Despite this, the automaker remains optimistic about the demand for the updated Ignis and hopes to boost sales through the updated model’s new features and compliance with the latest emissions norms.
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
