After days of speculation, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle from Suzuki) is now officially launched at prices starting from Rs. 8.23 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This is the first hybrid car in its segment and will replace all the standard diesel variants of the Ciaz sedan.
Under the hood, the Ciaz SHVS gets the same 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine, developing 90 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque, as earlier comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox only. However, unlike the outgoing model, this one comes equipped with Suzuki’s SHVS technology, and has a claimed ARAI fuel efficiency of 28.09kmpl, making it the most efficient diesel car on-sale in India.
The SHVS technology consists of an idling start/stop system, a larger battery and an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). While the vehicle is braking, the ISG converts the kinetic energy of the rolling wheels into electricity and stores in the battery, this system combines it with the power from the engine to help the vehicle during acceleration.
When the car comes to halt due to traffic signal/jam, is in neutral gear, the engine will shut down automatically after few seconds. To restart, the driver must press the clutch pedal, the engine starts immediately for continuing the journey, however, the driver’s seatbelt has to be locked, driver door and bonnet of the car should be closed. The SHVS system can be manually switched-off by pressing a button below the center console.
It looks identical to the existing Ciaz on the outside, but the features the SHVS badge at the bootlid, while the interior gets an updated instrument cluster and buttons for the SHVS features. It is also reported that dealers are going to begin specialized hybrid accessories for the buyers of SHVS Ciaz. These accessories might include scuff plates, stickers, floor mats etc.
Alongside the SHVS technology, the company also introduced a new mid-spec V(O) variant for the Ciaz petrol and SHVS diesel. This variant, dubbed VXi(O) / VDi(O) is positioned above the VXi / VDi. It comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and seat belt pre-tensioner as standard. All variants of Ciaz including, the entry-level V variant will get a driver airbag as a part of standard equipment.
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Also see: Maruti Suzuki Ciaz SHVS ‘Hybrid’ Version (SpyShots)
