Maruti Suzuki has developed a brand new 6-speed manual gearbox (codenamed MF30) that it will soon start offering on its top selling cars in India. The all-new 2018 Swift, which was just launched in February 2018, is said to be the first car that will receive the newly developed 6-speed gearbox.
Related: Maruti Dzire Creates History with 1 Lac Units Sold in 5 Months
According to reports, Maruti is looking to shore up the use of six-speed transmissions in a gradual way. Starting with 50,000 units in the first year the demand is projected to go to 400,000 units per year by 2020.
The new gearbox is expected to increase fuel efficiency by allowing for a taller 6th gear. Acceleration could also improve thanks to shorter ratios for the first five cogs. Cruising performance and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels are also expected to improve due to the additional gear.
Related: Ciaz Outsells City in India, Unable to Sell in Pakistan
Automakers in India are increasingly equipping their vehicles with 6-speed manual gearboxes. Tata Motors offers 6-speed manual gearboxes on the Nexon, Safari Storme, and the Hexa. Mahindra offers a 6-speed manual transmission on the XUV500 while even Renault and Nissan offer such gearboxes on both the Duster and Terrano. Hyundai has offered 6-speed manual gearboxes even on cheaper cars such as the i20 & i20 Elite, the Verna and the Creta. In future, the 6-speed manual gearboxes are expected to be offered even in cars from the lower segments.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
