Toyota-Suzuki SUV production to start from August at Bidadi plant

Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL) has announced that its upcoming midsize SUV, jointly developed with Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), will go into mass production at the latter’s plant in Bidadi, Karnataka, from August 2022.

The new model, which will be based on a heavily-localised version of Toyota’s DNGA – Daihatsu New Global Architecture - modular platform, will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, and will arm the Japanese alliance partners to tap the voluminous midsize SUV segment.

While TKM will unveil its version of the SUV on July 1, MSIL is expected to take the covers off the new SUV later in the same month, with the two carmakers likely to launch their respective versions of the new model by the festive season this year. MSIL’s intimation to the BSE also states that the new model will also be exported from India to markets like Africa.

The new SUV will have distinct styling for both Suzuki and Toyota, but will be offered with petrol-only powertrains with mild-hybrid technology developed by Suzuki and strong-hybrid tech developed by Toyota. It could be expected to offer modern features like sunroof, and come with safety features like ESC as standard, while getting optional six airbags.

Toyota President Akio Toyoda said: “We are pleased to announce the new SUV with Suzuki, a company that has a long history of local involvement in the Indian business. Today, the automotive industry is facing various challenges such as electrification and carbon neutrality. By leveraging the respective strengths of Toyota and Suzuki to provide Indian customers with a variety of options, we hope to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and realize a society where ‘no-one is left behind’ and ‘everyone can move freely.’”

Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki said: “Production of the new SUV at TKM is a project that can contribute to the growth of India through providing eco-friendly mobility needed by customers. We recognize that it is a big milestone toward further deepening our collaboration in the future. We appreciate the support from Toyota, and at the same time, will explore new synergy and business opportunities through continuous collaboration.”