Maruti Suzuki Dzire with AMT gearbox spotted on test

In November 2014, Maruti Suzuki had revealed that it was planning to equip more of its cars with automated manual transmission (AMT). Among the models expected to get the technology include the Wagon R and the Swift hatchbacks. Now, a test mule of the Dzire with an AMT gearbox has been spotted.

The variant of the car that was spotted was a top-of-the-line diesel (ZDi), which is equipped with ABS, airbags, a start/stop button, electrically retractable door mirrors, reverse parking sensors and more. On the outside, the AMT-equipped car does not look any different from the manual variant. Even the interiors of the two cars are identical, except for the gear lever. The AMT gear lever and the surrounding area on the centre console, is finished in black and brushed aluminium. The production version of the car is expected to get an "Auto Gear Shift" sticker on its boot like other AMT-equipped Maruti cars.

The Dzire ZDi AMT is expected to use the same 1.3-litre, 74 BHP diesel engine as the manual variant. It will sit at the top of the Dzire range and is expected to cost Rs. 35,000-40,000 more than the manual version.

The Dzire is the best-selling car in its segment, which include the Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent and Tata Zest. With the launch of the AMT variant, Maruti will aim to increase its domination.

Source: Gaadiwaadi