Maruti Suzuki bids adieu to Swift's current generation, will launch latest model in 2018

Maruti Suzuki India has bid farewell to the current generation of its highly successful car, Maruti Swift.

The last production model of the second generation Swift rolled off the assembly line in Manesar on 23 December.

The Swift has been one of the most profitable model for Maruti Suzuki which was introduced in 2005. The second generation was unveiled in 2012 with better cosmetics and added elements both inside and outside.

The second generation was more popular than the first one.

The Swift was available with two powertrain options – a frugal 1.2-litre K-series petrol engine and a tried and tested 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine.

According to various media reports, the company will now launch the third generation in 2018. Meanwhile, Maruti Suzuki India plans to increase prices across its models by up to 2% from January in order to partially offset rise in input costs.

The company currently sells a range of models, from hatchback Alto 800 with price starting at Rs 2.45 lakh to crossover S-Cross priced at Rs 11.29 lakh (all prices ex- showroom Delhi).

When contacted, a company spokesperson told PTI that the company is revising prices as there has been a gradual increase in commodity prices over the past few months.

"We were absorbing the impact of small fluctuations till now. But with gradual increase in commodity prices we will have to pass on the increase to the customers from January," the spokesperson said.

When asked about the quantum of increase, the spokesperson said: "The prices would go up to 2% across the product portfolio from next month." The quantum of price increase will vary based on the different models and fuel specifications.

Various automakers such as Tata Motors, Ford, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Honda Cars India, Skoda and Isuzu have already announced price hikes from early next year.

Maruti Suzuki India Limited