Ford EcoSport-rivalling Maruti Suzuki YBA compact SUV makes an appearance

Maruti Suzuki is soon going to extend its presence in the sub 4-meter SUV segment with the upcoming YBA (codename) compact SUV. Spotted by GaadiWaadi, the said vehicle is expected to be launched around next year’s Auto Expo. In its latest outing, the Ford EcoSport rival is seen with daytime running lamps (DRLs) and less camouflage.

(Image Courtesy: GaadiWaadi)

Likely to be based on the same platform as the Maruti Suzuki Swift, the YBA SUV takes some cues from the XA Alpha Concept and iV-4 concept, but from what we could make of the latest spy shots, it doesn’t share a lot between itself and the new Vitara (not available in India). Also don’t expect the cuteness of the i-M4 concept mini SUV (present at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show) to be found on the YBA, either.

Like the Swift, the glasshouse recedes towards the back of the car. The large rear view mirrors get turn indicators, and alloy wheels are present on the latest test mule. Reports suggest that it could be called Vitara Breeze, while powering the vehicle is expected to be a smart hybrid system-equipped 1.3-litre Fiat sourced Multijet diesel engine. Like the Ciaz SHVS that was launched today, the system will boast a generator and a start-stop system, and will improve the efficiency of the engine.

Its main rivals will include the Ford EcoSport, the upcoming Mahindra TUV300, and the Hyundai Creta. Also, the Brio-based Honda BR-V is expected much around the same time as the Maruti Suzuki YBA, hence it will be interesting to see which of these compact SUVs come out on top.