After introducing some really unique models, namely the Vitara Brezza, the Ignis (and soon, the Baleno RS hot-hatch), Maruti will now focus on trimming down its expansive line-up. The models that the carmaker is about to do away with include the Ritz hatchback, the Gypsy, the Celerio diesel, and the WagonR Stingray. The move is a bid to push the sales of newer and better models.
Introduced in 2009, the Ritz found a decent number of takers, and of late, has been quite popular in the taxi market. However, it never saw the success of typical models, and was long rumoured to be facing the axe.
The Celerio diesel was an important car for the brand, as it debuted its indigenously developed two-cylinder diesel engine. However, it averaged just 418 units monthly over the last year, unlike the petrol car that sold over 7000 units a month during the same period.
Similarly, the Stingray too will be discontinued on the account of paltry sales. The model will be sold as the range-topping WagonR.
With Tata now supplying its SUVs to the Indian Army, Maruti has decided to stop manufacturing the iconic Gypsy, since the car sold in very few numbers in the private market. Also, it’s an old model, and wouldn’t be able to comply with the upcoming car safety norms.
Besides shelving some of its models, Maruti will also promote the Ciaz into its Nexa chain of premium showrooms. The sedan will retail via Nexa in its facelifted avatar that’s slated for launch soon.
Maruti recently launched the funky little Ignis, and come March 3rd, it will bring in the Baleno RS, a hotter version of its Baleno premium hatchback. Other upcoming launches from the brand will include the next-gen Swift, and facelifts of the Ciaz and the S-Cross.