Did Maruti miss a trick by not offering the S-Cross with AWD?
The S-Cross was marketed as a crossover SUV, an SUV that was more of a hatchback than a full SUV. Suzuki sold the S-Cross with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option in many global markets to improve its SUV credentials and off roading ability. In India, though, Maruti decided to sell the S Cross with just front wheel drive. Indian car enthusiasts have debated the decision. There are those who feel that an AWD option would have set the S-Cross apart from the rest of the pseudo-SUV market and justified the S-Cross’ premium positioning. Some say the extra cost and complexity of AWD wouldn't have been worth it for the vast majority of Indian buyers who seldom go off road. But lack of AWD also brings into question the extent of Maruti’s strategy in the booming SUV market.
Absolutely. The S-Cross would have had a unique selling point in its segment, thanks to AWD. Missed opportunity.
No, AWD is excess for Indian roads. It just would have added cost and made the vehicle less fuel efficient.
I think that it might have otherwise been a niche offering. Not for volume sales but in order to put the S-Cross in a more serious SUV contender perspective.
No one knows the Indian market better than Maruti. If they didn't offer AWD, then their research told them no one was demanding it.
It could have had an AWD option to better go against the likes of Renault Duster AWD. It could have found a loyal niche audience.
Face it, most Indian 'SUV' buyers just want the high seating position and macho looks. They don't give a damn about actual off road capability.
At least I wish they had offered it as an option on the top end variant. It would have been great for enthusiasts and those in hilly areas.
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Discussions and Questions Did Maruti Miss A Trick By Not Offering The S Cross With Awd
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