Suzuki Ciaz is a compact sedan which replaced the SX4 in Asian and Latin American markets. In 2014, China was one of the first markets to launch the sedan, badged as Alivio, soon followed by India where, as elsewhere it was called the Ciaz.
Already completing three years of its production, there were reports regarding a possible Ciaz/ Alivio facelift somewhere during the mid 2017, and here we are with the latest spy shots of the Alivio facelift from China.
Related: Is Ciaz Turning Out To Be Another Pak Suzuki Flop?
The spy shots which shows a showroom-ready version of the sedan, shows us a new single piece Audi-ish front grille and new front and rear bumpers. New black fog lamp enclosures are unified by a thin strip running along the lower lip. Just above the fog lamp area are slim black inserts that could house LED DRLs on higher trims. At the back, the bumper does away with the cut outs and features a dual tone look. Closer observation also reveals slightly tweaked tail lamp detailing with an increased stop lamp size.
The Alivio is made in China by the Changan-Suzuki joint venture and these changes may not exactly represent the international versions. However, a test-mule has already been spied in India which suggests similar changes will be adapted by Maruti-Suzuki as well.
The Ciaz facelift will also get an updated instrument console with a new higher resolution color MID. Reports also suggest Suzuki’s new 1.5 liter diesel engine will replace the existing 1.3 liter DDiS200 unit in India to bring the Ciaz at par with rivals Honda City and Hyundai Verna, in performance.
Related: Ciaz Outsells City in India, Unable to Sell in Pakistan
The Ciaz is considered as the most successful Suzuki sedan creating problems for the rivals particularly the 6th generation Honda City. The facelift will likely help Suzuki maintain the success of Ciaz in key markets.
While the world will be getting the Ciaz facelift before the end of this year, Pak Suzuki is once again late to introduce the sedan in our market. Better still, since Ciaz is currently being imported as CBU, we can expect the facelift to be here in our market towards the end of this year.
However, in terms of specifications & price, it has to be the same Ciaz that’s available in other markets as we strongly believe that a better equipped & logically priced Ciaz will force Honda Atlas to replace the old 5th gen City with the newer one.
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
