Maruti Suzuki Overhauls India’s Best-Selling Sedan

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. (MSI) has introduced an all-new version of its Dzire entry-level small sedan, which has controlled about half of its market segment since shortly after its debut in 2008.

The third-generation Dzire (pictured) is the result of a 10.9 billion-rupee ($170 million) investment. The new model rides on the fifth iteration of MSI’s “Heartech” platform and offers a choice between a 1.2-liter gasoline engine and 1.3-liter diesel. The car, which is assembled at the company’s factory in Manesar, has 99% local content and will meet India’s upcoming crash safety standards.

Starting a 545,000 rupees ($8,500), the Dzirel has attracted 33,000 pre-orders, according to the company. MSI plans to continue offering the outgoing model as the Tour S for taxi fleet use.

The Dzire has been India’s second-most-popular model after Maruti Suzuki’s smaller Alto sedan, with sales of 1.38 million to date—including 190,000 units in 2016. The car competes with 17 rivals that include the Ford Aspire, Honda Amaze and Hyundai Xcent.

Maruti Suzuki plans to introduce 15 new models between now and 2020. The company hopes by then to hike its annual sales to 2 million units from 1.56 million vehicles in the fiscal year ended March 31.