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Maruti Suzuki is expected to launch the facelifted Brezza around the festive season this year. Test mule sightings have become frequent in recent months. In the latest instance, the mule was seen with emission-testing equipment mounted on it. This points to the possibility of Maruti Suzuki testing a new powertrain.

The newest spy shots show the vehicle moving slowly through a crowded road. It has emission-testing equipment mounted at its rear. Generally, this means a new powertrain is being evaluated. The Brezza belongs to the sub-four metre SUV segment. It competes with the likes of second-generation Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and more

At present, the Brezza is only offered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated, four-cylinder, petrol engine (K15C) that makes 101 hp and 137Nm of torque. It is available with a manual and torque converter automatic transmission.

This engine has been around for long, and is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Now, the Brezza is the only model in the segment that lacks a punchy turbo-petrol engine. This is expected to change with the facelift.

Maruti also has the Fronx Turbo on sale, which is known for its sporty nature. The Brezza is likely to use the same 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine as this car.

This engine will make the Brezza more fun-to-drive and position it more squarely against turbo-petrol rivals like the Venue and Sonet. More importantly, it will align this SUV with the broader consumer inclination towards smaller turbocharged petrol engines. As seen in previous spy shots, the new engine will be paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

The introduction of the 1.0L turbo-petrol engine will also give Maruti Suzuki tax benefits. In India, sub-4-metre petrol vehicles with engine capacities of under 1200cc attract a lower GST of 18%. This could have a major impact on the model’s pricing.

The Brezza is a price-sensitive model. The current 1.5-litre petrol model is taxed at 40%. With the new variants falling under the 18% slab, Maruti Suzuki will likely be able to price the turbo versions aggressively, paving way for their commercial success.

The new engine is likely to be offered alongside the outgoing model’s 1.5-litre petrol and the familiar CNG powertrain. The CNG version will have an underbody tank design, just like that of the Victoris. This will help in improving the usable boot space.

The facelifted Brezza will have subtle exterior design tweaks. These, in general, are expected to be evolutionary. The front and rear bumpers are expected to change on the updated model. The front fascia will have a revised grille and slightly tweaked headlamps. The fog lamp housings will be restyled and the front will also have a thicker faux skid plate. The vehicle will also get a new set of 16-inch alloy wheels.

What looks like a radar module can also be seen in some spy shots. This could mean the integration of ADAS suite on the facelift. However, we lack clarity on this front and will have to wait more to find out. Many models in this segment already offer ADAS features, and including them would only make the new Brezza more competitive.

Inside, the facelifted Brezza is expected to retain its dashboard layout and overall design. It will get meaningful updates like a larger infotainment touchscreen- possibly a 10.1-inch unit instead of the outgoing model’s 9-inch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, connected car features, ventilated seats and more.

Source: Rushlane