Maruti Celerio: Diesel, ZXi AMT & Taxi variants coming up

Thank you to the Team-BHP fan who sent this information to us (he prefers to remain anonymous). Heartfelt gratitude for sharing it with other enthusiasts!

With the Celerio, Maruti Suzuki introduced the automated manual transmission (AMT) to the masses. Since then, the car has maintained a steady monthly sales figure averaging ~5,500 units.

A few days ago we reported that due to the demand for an AMT with requisite safety features such as ABS and dual airbags, Maruti was mulling a ZXi AMT variant. And yes, indeed, Maruti is readying a ZXi AMT variant which will be launched soon. The additional features available in the ZXi AMT variant over the VXi AMT are body coloured door handles and mirrors, fog lamps, electrically adjustable ORVMs, tilt steering, integrated music system with CD, USB, AUX-in and Bluetooth with 4 speakers, remote locking and steering mounted controls. ABS and dual airbags will also be available as standard in this trim.

The other news coming in from the Maruti stable is that the Celerio will soon be launched with a 800 cc, twin-cylinder diesel engine which is expected to return high fuel efficiency figures. Like the petrol Celerio, the diesel will be available with an LDi, VDi, ZDi and ZDi (option) pack.

Maruti is also likely to target the 'taxi' market with the Celerio diesel. After meeting some success with the Dzire Tour, Maruti is once again eyeing this segment, hence a 'taxi variant' is also going to be introduced.

Production of both - ZXi AMT as well as the diesel Celerio have begun and their launch isn't far away.