Suzuki R3 MPV Concept Revealed At Delhi Auto Expo

THE ONSLAUGHT OF small car concepts continues at this year's Delhi Auto Expo with the unveiling of Suzuki's R3 MPV concept today.

Developed specifically for the sub-continent by Indian powerhouse Maruti Suzuki, the compact R3 MPV seats six people across three rows.

Suzuki has yet to reveal any technical details for the R3, or even whether it intends to offer a production version.

The compact MPV is believed to be built on a stretched version of the platform underpinning the Suzuki SX4.

Power is expected to come from a range of 1.2 and 1.4 litre petrol engines driving the R3's front wheels.

A fiat-sourced 1.3 litre diesel is rumoured to be among the MPV's engine options, although it's unclear how Volkswagen's new stake in Suzuki will affect such a deal.

A production version is reportedly due for a market launch late next year and, while no official word has been given, a new model would likely help Maruti Suzuki ward off efforts by Toyota, Nissan and Honda to enter the Indian market.

The first carmaker to sell more than a million cars in India, Maruti Suzuki offers versions of the SX4, Swift, and the Indian-market Splash among its models.