With the beginning of the BS6 era, Maruti Suzuki had discontinued its diesel offerings in India and announced that it won't bring BS6 diesel models until the customers make an adequate demand. As per the brand, the reason for discontinuation was the high costs associated with updating diesel motors to meet strict emissions standards. Further, to push the buyers towards petrol models, the brand introduced a campaign called "Calculate Kiya Kya?" However, there were some talks that Maruti will soon introduce the BS6 diesel engine. Now, reports are hinting that Maruti is all set to bring back its 1.5-liter diesel engine in 2021, which is an in-house developed unit.
In its BS4 avatar, this 1.5-liter engine was capable enough to produce a maximum power output of 95PS and a peak torque of 225Nm. However, output figures for the BS6 version are yet to be disclosed, but we believe it to remain the same.
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In the BS4 era, this engine was offered with the 7-seater Ertiga MPV and Ciaz sedan. Since Maruti is testing this engine in Ertiga for quite some time in the county; therefore, this upgraded diesel engine could make its debut in the Ertiga. Maruti might also offer it with several other offerings such as XL6, Vitara Brezza, Ciaz, and S-Cross.
In Ertiga, this diesel engine was available with a 6-speed manual gearbox, which used to offer an ARAI mileage of around 25kmpl. With the upgradation, we expect a minor drop in fuel efficiency.
The first BS6 diesel car of Maruti Suzuki is likely to hit the market by mid-2021. The diesel variants could command a premium of around Rs 1 lakh – 1.5 lakh over their corresponding petrol trims. There are no reports regarding the comeback of Maruti's most popular Fiat-sourced 1.3-liter diesel engine, which has powered a large number of Maruti models over the years, including Swift, Dzire, Ignis, Baleno, Vitara Brezza & S-Cross.
Maruti is not only the brand that has ditched diesel engines in the BS6 era. Other carmakers like Skoda, Volkswagen, Renault, and Nissan have also taken similar measures in India. Will these brands also bring their diesel engines again? Well, the time will tell.
Information Source: PTI