Maruti Suzuki To Cease Production Of All Diesel Cars From 1st April 2020
With the Bharat Stage VI emission norms coming into effect in April 2020, Diesel engine powered cars are expected to become more expensive. Mr. R C Bhatnagar, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki said: “Getting any engine under 1500cc BS VI compliant is economically unviable”. To put this into perspective, the price difference between a BS IV petrol and diesel car today ranges between Rs.80,000-Rs.1.5 lakhs. However, After April 2020 the price difference between a BS VI petrol and diesel car could go up to around Rs.2.5 lakhs.
Diesel small cars make up nearly half of Maruti’s total domestic sales last year, and yet the Carmaker plans “Diesel-Free” future.
When asked about the recently launched 1.5L diesel engine introduced in the Ciaz, Mr Bhargava said “We will bring the 1.5L diesel, depending on market demand. If there is substantial demand for diesel then we will introduce the 1.5L engine.”
Maruti Brezza is one of the bestselling Compact SUVs in India, And the Brezza is only available in a 1.3L diesel option, when asked about the future of India’s favorite compact SUV Mr. Bhargava said “Only in India people equate SUVs with diesel, petrol SUVs are popular globally and it should work in India as well”. Would we see a petrol power Maruti Brezza soon?
Ending on a lighter note Mr. Bhargava said “This is the best time to buy a diesel powered car if you like them. Because once BS VI comes, diesel cars are going to get expensive.”
