Maruti Vitara Brezza, a sub-4meter compact SUV, first displayed at the 2016 Auto Expo followed by its launch in March this year, has won the “Indian Car of the Year 2017”. It is the only award that has representatives from various publications. A consortium of 15 automobile experts drawn from multiple publications declared Vitara Brezza the ICOTY 2017".
Accepting the award, Managing Director and CEO of Maruti Suzuki, Kenichi Ayukawa said, “Vitara Brezza is special for us in many ways. Designed and developed by a team of Maruti Suzuki engineers, using Suzuki core technology, engine and platform, Vitara Brezza is heralded as an example of “Create in India”. It has brought us leadership position in the UV segment. Overwhelmed by its popularity among customers, we have regularly upped its production and are grateful to those who have currently booked and are patiently waiting for delivery. To be recognized as Indian Car of the Year by an independent jury, comprising India’s leading automobile experts, makes it even more special”.
Dr Raghupati Singhania, Chairman & MD of JK Tyres has presented the ICOTY trophy to the company for Vitara Brezza. The success of the car can be attributed to its appealing design, which is very much similar to the bigger Vitara, features, outstanding fuel economy and an affordable price. "Vitara Brezza has sold nearly 83,000 units since its launch in March 2016, making it one of India's top 10 selling models and propelling Maruti Suzuki to the leadership position in the utility vehicle space as well," the company said in a statement.
In terms of the powertrain, it is being offered only with diesel engine options i.e. a 1.3-liter four-cylinder unit generating 90 PS with 200 Nm of torque, and mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Some of its noticeable features are - 7-inch SmartPlay touchscreen system with inbuilt navigation, auto climate control, Apple CarPlay support, 16-inch alloy wheels, reverse parking camera, dual airbags, projector headlights, ABS with EBD, etc.
