Maruti Suzuki plans compact hybrid MPV with sliding doors for India and exports
Maruti Suzuki is preparing to expand its MPV portfolio in India with a new compact model that is expected to debut towards the end of the decade. Internally codenamed YVF, the upcoming MPV is understood to draw inspiration from the Suzuki Solio sold in markets such as Japan and Hong Kong. The model is likely to be positioned above the Ertiga and XL6 and will also serve as an export-focused product.
India’s MPV segment has shown steady momentum in recent years. The continued success of the Maruti Ertiga, which has led its category for multiple financial years, reflects strong demand in the mass market. At the same time, higher-end MPVs such as the Kia Carnival, MG M9 and Toyota Vellfire have found a niche audience looking for comfort-focused, feature-rich people movers. This gradual shift has encouraged manufacturers to explore more premium offerings at lower price points.
The new YVF MPV is expected to sit in the under-4-metre category, where the Renault Triber and the recently revealed Nissan Gravite currently operate. While both rivals offer three-row seating, the Maruti model is likely to focus suggesting a five-seat configuration, a layout that aligns better with international market requirements.
Dimensions of the India-bound version have not been officially confirmed, but the Japan-spec Solio measures just under 3.9 metres in length. This indicates that Maruti’s new MPV could be more compact than existing rivals while prioritising interior space and ease of access.
One of the most notable features under consideration is powered rear sliding doors. If introduced, this would mark a first for Maruti Suzuki in the compact MPV segment. Sliding doors have traditionally been limited to larger, more expensive MPVs, and their inclusion would signal Maruti’s intent to bring premium convenience features to a broader audience.
Under the bonnet, the YVF is expected to use Suzuki’s Z12E 1.2-litre petrol engine, already seen in models such as the Maruti Swift and Maruti Dzire. However, this application could introduce hybrid technology, potentially making it one of the first compact MPVs in India to offer a strong or series-hybrid setup. International versions of the Solio already use a petrol-hybrid system paired with a CVT, delivering high fuel efficiency by global test standards.
While the Solio is offered with all-wheel drive in Japan, such a configuration is considered unlikely for India due to limited demand in this segment. The focus is expected to remain on efficiency, urban usability and comfort.
Production of the YVF MPV is planned in India, with exports forming a significant part of the project. Industry estimates suggest annual volumes could cross one lakh units at peak, with a portion allocated to hybrid variants and overseas markets, particularly Europe.
If timelines remain on track, Maruti Suzuki’s new compact MPV could arrive around 2028–29, marking a strategic step towards premiumisation and hybrid adoption in the brand’s MPV lineup.
