New Maruti Suzuki Splash

THE SPLASH, the latest small car from Suzuki’s stable, was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Based essentially on the Swift's platform shortened by 30mm, the Splash is set to replace the Wagon R +/Agila in Europe. The tall boy-like stance makes it look like an evolution of the current Wagon R but it z several times more attractive with large wheel arches, a tipped-forward passenger cabin and a prominent nose section as well. The bonnet is actually pretty flat and Suzuki designers have used urge high-mounted trapezoidal lights. The grille and loser grille in the bumper are designed as one unit, and this gives the Splash a tough, no-nonsense look.

Also very interesting are the high-mounted boomerang-like tail-lamps that are canted back to match the equally angular C-pillar. Lots of Swift bits are pres­ent on the inside as well, with steering wheel, gear lever etc carried over. Comfort on the front seats is much higher than on the current Wagon R, with the wide seats supporting your back well. And legroom in the rear is also good. Petrol power is likely to be provided by a new 1.2-litre petrol motor. The popular model of course is expected to be the 1.3 Multijet diesel from Fiat, as this model will allow Maruti to duck under the small car excise norms. It will also give Maruti a strong weapon with which to take on Hyundai’s diesel-powered PA.