We are all aware of the global partnership between Maruti Suzuki and Toyota. According to this, Toyota will open itself up in the technological aspects for the international markets to Maruti Suzuki and Maruti Suzuki will supply badge-engineered versions of its products to Toyota in India. The results are already in with the Glanza and Urban Cruiser from Baleno and Vitara Brezza respectively. Baleno and Brezza were already the segment leaders in our market in terms of sales and that has benefitted Toyota immensely. In fact, these products have helped Toyota to stay relevant in India and grow exponentially. To further drive this point home and explore options, Toyota is planning to introduce the badge-engineered version of the executive sedan from Maruti Suzuki, the Ciaz. Let us take a look at what to expect from it.
Also read: Maruti Suzuki’s future in India – CNG cars and maybe a diesel!
Toyota Belta- Exteriors
Toyota has recently registered the trademark, Belta in India. This could possibly hint at the name of the upcoming badge-engineered Ciaz. We understand that there will not be any noticeable changes in the exteriors as well as the interiors of the Belta. This is because that was exactly the case with the Glanza and Urban Cruiser also. Therefore, the exterior of the Belta will feature LED auto headlamps with DRLs, chrome inserts at various parts of the front including on the bumper surrounding the fog lamp casing and around the front grille. This gives a bit of bling and a modern appearance to the sedan. The sides are host to 16-inch alloy wheels and chrome door handles with a beltline running underneath the windows. The rear features the LED Taillamps, connected by a chrome strip and chrome surrounds on the bumper housing the braking light. All-in-all, the Belta will be a modern-looking car but identical to the Ciaz.
Also read: Dimensions and Specs of 5-door Jimny leaked online!
Toyota Belta- Interiors, Features and Safety
Like the exteriors, the interiors of the Belta will also be similar to the Ciaz. This includes a 7-inch Digital Touchscreen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and connected car tech with SmartPlay Studio, Navigation, Voice Commands, 6-speaker audio system, Multi-Information Instrument Cluster, Cruise Control, Tilt Steering with Audio Controls, Automatic Climate Control, Rear AC Vents, Rear Sunshade, Leather Seat Upholstrey, Height Adjustable Driver Seat, Bluetooth Connectivity and much more. On the safety front, the Belta might also come with Dual Airbags, Reverse Parking Sensors with Camera, Electronic Stability Program with Hill Hold Assist, Speed Alert System, Seat-belt Warning, ISOFIX Child Seat mounts and much more.
Also read: 2021 Maruti Suzuki Swift vs Hyundai Grand i10 Nios – Specs, Features and Prices Comparison!
Toyota Belta- Engines, Prices and Rivals
The engine options will also be carried on from Ciaz which has a 1.5-litre petrol engine with Smart Hybrid Technology making 105 hp and 138 Nm. The transmission duties are carried by either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The prices of the Ciaz range between Rs 8.52 lakh and Rs 11.50 lakh, ex-showroom. We expect the prices around the same region although Toyota might introduce a slight difference in pricing and warranty package. The list of rivals includes Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Skoda Rapid and VW Vento. The introduction of Belta might come at the cost of discontinuation of the Yaris which has not been very popular in the segment.
Also read: Executive Sedan Sales Report for March 2021 – Verna, City, Ciaz, Rapid and more!
