Maruti Future-S Micro SUV: What its production version will look like

Maruti showcased the Future-S micro SUV concept at the 2018 Indian Auto Expo. Reports suggest that the concept will be productionized in the future, into a micro SUV that slots below the Maruti Vitara Brezza in terms of pricing and positioning. Here is a speculative render that shows what the Future-S’ production version could look like.

The new vehicle will use the HEARTECT platform that it’ll borrow from the all-new, 2018 Maruti Swift hatchback. Other details about the vehicle are scarce at the moment. Maruti may even choose to design a Kwid rival based on this concept given its compact dimensions that are more hatchback-like than SUV.

If Maruti decides to take the SUV route for the Future-S both petrol and diesel options are likely. High ground clearance and a high seating position are two other factors that’ll be engineered into the Future-S’ production version. However, like the render indicates, much of the design flair shown by the concept is expected to be toned down in the production version.

The interiors will also have a more conventional layout to suit tight budgets. Expect decent safety spec though, with airbags and ABS as standard. The Future S will also be hybrid and electric ready. When will be in India? For now, there’s no accurate information on this. There are many automakers in India who are planning to launch micro SUVs.

Hyundai is considering one and so is Renault, which will use the Kwid’s lengthened CMF-A+ platform for that. Presently, the only micro SUV sold in India is the KUV100 from Mahindra. The vehicle sits below the Swift in terms of positioning, and is sold with petrol and turbo diesel engines. It will soon offer even an electric version. So, the KUV100 will be the vehicle to beat for Maruti, Hyundai and Renault, when they launch their respective micro SUVs in India.

Via IAB