Maruti SX4's successor, the YL1, spotted testing in India

The SX4 was and still is a pretty underrated car. This is also evident from the number of units that Maruti sold of this sedan. It was launched back in 2007. In six years, the only major variations that it has got are a CNG kit, which came in 2010, and a 1.3-diesel version launched in 2011. Maruti also introduced a minor facelift of the car recently. Other than this there haven't been any substantial additions or improvements to the sedan, and this has only resulted in the sales figures dropping even more.

The YL1, as can be deduced from the pictures will be bigger and more imposing than the car it will replace

Maruti understands a correction in its approach is a must to save the model, and that saviour will come in the form of a new sedan codenamed YL1. The YL1 which is expected to make its debut at the upcoming Auto Expo in February next year will replace the SX4 and might also come with an all new nameplate. Test mules of the YL1 have been photographed testing for months now. This, the latest picture of the YL1 was taken in Delhi.

The YL1 will also have an SX4-like raised rear-end and a big, usable boot

The YL1, as can be deduced from the pictures will be bigger and more imposing than the car it will replace. It will also have an SX4-like raised rear-end and a big, usable boot. The YL1 is expected to sport similar drivetrain options as the SX4. It will get the same 1.6-litre VVT petrol engine with 105PS of max power along with the tried and tested, and much-loved 1.3-litre diesel engine rated at 90PS and 200Nm. A 5-speed manual transmission will be standard with both engines, and we expect Maruti to offer an automatic with the petrol engine as well. A diesel automatic is unlikely because it is bound to make the car's pricing unreasonable. It would be interesting to see if Maruti also introduces its indigenous 1.4-litre diesel engine on the YL1.

The YL1 is supposed to be nearly a D-segment sedan and this will show on the inside with the class leading space

Given the current market scenario and the success of the Hyundai Verna compared to its peers, expect the YL1 to get segment-leading comfort and convenience features as well. We expect a multifunctional steering wheel, automatic climate control, leather upholstery and safety systems like ABS and driver and passenger airbags to come as standard on the top of the line version of the YL1. The YL1 is supposed to be nearly a D-segment sedan and this will show on the inside with the class leading space that it will also offer. But obviously, we have to wait for official conformation.

The YL1 will come out of Maruti's Manesar plant and we can safely expect it to be on roads by mid 2014.

Image courtesy Motoroids and Motorbash