Suzuki unveils A:Wind concept, could replace A-Star in India
It is a well-known fact that the A-Star is one of the products that Maruti Suzuki hasn't been able to strike gold with. Now, India's largest carmaker has revealed a long awaited replacement for the small car. Monikered A:Wind, the concept has been premiered by Suzuki at the 30th Thailand International Motor Expo 2013.
Monikered A:Wind, the concept has been premiered by Suzuki at the 30th Thailand International Motor Expo 2013
According to the company, it is a car that "seeks to bring a fresh wind to the A-segment as a global compact car." It is the forerunner to be the next Indian A-Star and global Alto (A-Star is sold worldwide with the Alto badge).
The A:Wind is powered by a 996cc 3-cylinder petrol engine
The A:Wind is powered by a 996cc 3-cylinder petrol engine, same as the A-Star. A CVT gearbox transmits power to the front wheels though in production form, this may also bring in a 5-speed manual. The concept is 3600mm long, 1600mm wide and 1540mm high in dimensions. It has a 2425mm long wheelbase. It wears a catchy Energy Yellow paintjob. The car rides on 16-inch dynamically designed alloys.
Minus a few obvious concept touches the car actually seems production-ready
Minus a few obvious concept touches the car actually seems production-ready. The front grille gets two chrome slats running across and merging into the futuristic cat-eye headlamps. The sides have a crease running from the rear to the front fender. But the production model is sure to have toned down front fascia and alloys. On the inside, the concept gets light shades as dual-tones, a touchscreen, steering and gear knobs reminiscent of Maruti Suzuki and AC vents and console like the Swift and its ilk.
On the inside, the concept gets light shades as dual-tones
The car is said to be spacious and practical, something that was never related to the A-Star. Infact, the A-Star has always been pummeled for its extremely cramped rear. We can safely expect the A:Wind to make an appearance at the Delhi Auto Expo 2014, and maybe go into production by mid-late 2014. As far as the current A-Star is concerned, Maruti dealers are offering a hefty discount to clear the stocks.
On the inside, the concept gets light shades as dual-tones
More recently, Maruti Suzuki was in news because of a recall. The company called back a few cars, some of which were A-Stars, to look into a problem related to the steering column.
