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Tag: Partho Banerjee

  • Maruti launches 2025 Grand Vitara S CNG starting at Rs 13.48 lakh

    Maruti launches 2025 Grand Vitara S CNG starting at Rs 13.48 lakh

    MUMBAI: Ready, set, gas! Maruti Suzuki’s 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG is here to prove that efficiency can be exciting, not just economical. Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) has launched the 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG, priced from Rs 13.48 lakh (ex-showroom), combining eco-conscious power with upgraded safety and tech, and giving India’s green SUV segment a serious push.

    Powered by the Next-Gen K-series 1.5-litre, Dual Jet, Dual VVT engine, the Grand Vitara S-CNG offers a mileage of 26.6 km/kg making it one of the most fuel-efficient options in its category. It churns out 64.6 kW (87.8 PS) at 5500 rpm and 121.5 Nm torque at 4200 rpm in CNG mode.

    But the upgrades aren’t just under the hood. The 2025 edition adds 6 airbags as standard across all variants, a timely move in line with India’s growing demand for enhanced safety. Other features keeping passengers secure include Electronic Stability Program+ (ESP), Hill Hold Assist, ABS with EBD, front and rear disc brakes, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and more.

    Beyond safety, Maruti’s aiming for premium comfort. The Grand Vitara S-CNG now packs a punch with an Auto Purify system with PM 2.5 Display, a 22.86 cm (9”) SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system with wireless connectivity, a Clarion-tuned premium sound system, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, reclining rear seats (60:40 split), rear AC vents, and Suzuki Connect integration.

    The SUV’s dimensions hold steady at 4345 mm (length) × 1795 mm (width) × 1645 mm (height), maintaining its road presence and urban agility.

    Variant-wise Pricing (Ex-showroom, India)- Delta CNG – Rs 13,48,000, Zeta CNG – Rs 15,62,000.

    MSIL, senior executive officer of marketing and sales Partho Banerjee stated, “The new 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG offers a range of new convenience and safety features alongside the introduction of 6 airbags as standard. It delivers remarkable fuel efficiency, without compromising on the SUV experience.”

    Maruti’s multi-fuel strategy is on full display, with the Grand Vitara now available in S-CNG, Strong Hybrid, and Allgrip Select 4×4 variants. Whether it’s urban commutes or greener getaways, the S-CNG promises to take you further without breaking the bank or the planet.

  • Maruti Suzuki hits the gas on financing with SMFG India Credit tieup

    Maruti Suzuki hits the gas on financing with SMFG India Credit tieup

    MUMBAI: Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL) has inked a new deal that could supercharge its light commercial vehicle sales. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SMFG India Credit (SMICC) to provide tailored auto retail finance options for buyers of its Super Carry and Eeco Cargo models.

    This new alliance is designed to give a leg-up to fleet owners and small businesses by offering flexible, tech-savvy financing solutions. With SMICC’s reach and Maruti’s dealer network firing on all cylinders, customers can now expect an end-to-end credit experience that’s fast, fuss-free and fully digital.

    Present at the signing were MSIL senior executive officers for marketing and sales, Partho Banerjee and Nobutaka Suzuki, along with vice-president Vishal Sharma. SMICC was represented by chief operating officer Swaminathan Subramanian, chief business officer Ajay Pareek, and Takamitsu Kajii, head of planning and alignment.

    “At Maruti Suzuki, customer delight remains to be our top priority. Our partnership with SMFG India Credit adds to our continuous efforts in aiding customers with easy, flexible, and personalised financing options for Super Carry and Eeco Cargo. The Super Carry has a special place in the hearts of fleet owners and drivers with its exceptional load carrying capacity & power, while the Eeco Cargo’s versatile combination of comfort and utility makes it a preferred choice. By leveraging SMFG India’s robust and wide network, customers can expect seamless, tech-driven, end-to-end financing experiences,” said Partho Banerjee. 

    Ajay Pareek added, “We are excited to offer top-class credit solutions to Maruti Suzuki customers as one of their retail vehicle financing partners. This collaboration aligns with our aim of becoming the preferred lending partner of choice for millions of Indians. Our tailor-made product offerings extend beyond auto retail financing and we are well poised to empower every Indian to achieve financial freedom, through easy and accessible loans. Keeping this as one of the cornerstones for progress, we are focused on partnering with top OEMs across key sectors. We are thrilled to ink this partnership with Maruti Suzuki and look forward to jointly serving their customers across the country.”

    With the commercial vehicle market picking up pace, this move could help Maruti Suzuki stay ahead of the curve and load up on volumes—one financed vehicle at a time.

  • Maruti Suzuki’s WagonR reigns as India’s bestselling car four years running

    Maruti Suzuki’s WagonR reigns as India’s bestselling car four years running

    MUMBAI: Maruti Suzuki’s WagonR has maintained its pole position as India’s highest-selling car for the fourth consecutive year, with 198,451 units sold during the financial year 2024-25.

    The ubiquitous box-on-wheels has now amassed an impressive customer base of 3.37 million owners since its introduction, solidifying its status as the nation’s most beloved four-wheeled companion.

    “WagonR’s sustained leadership in the Indian automotive market underscores strong customer trust and an unmatched value proposition over 25 years,” said Maruti Suzuki India senior executive officer for marketing and sales Partho Banerjee.

    The company points to remarkable customer loyalty as a key factor in the model’s continued success, with one in four WagonR owners returning to purchase another—a rare feat in India’s notoriously fickle automotive marketplace.

    Despite the rise of SUVs and crossovers that have left many traditional hatchbacks gathering dust in showrooms, Banerjee remains bullish about the segment’s prospects: “Hatchbacks are an integral pillar of India’s automobile industry… this segment will continue to be a cornerstone in spreading the joy of mobility to every Indian household.”

    The WagonR’s enduring popularity flies in the face of automotive fashion trends, suggesting that practicality trumps posturing for many Indian buyers. The model’s winning formula combines spaciousness that belies its compact footprint, fuel efficiency that protects wallets, and just enough tech to keep pace with modern expectations.

    Under the bonnet, customers can choose between two K-Series Dual Jet engines—1.0L for the budget-conscious and 1.2L for those craving a bit more snarl in their steering wheel. Both come with manual and auto gear shift transmission options.

    The CNG variant continues to be a hit with eco-conscious penny-pinchers, offering superior fuel economy without sacrificing performance—a claim that might raise eyebrows among enthusiasts but resonates with family accountants.

    Safety features include the requisite alphabet soup of modern protection systems: ABS with EBD, ESP, and Hill Hold Assist, all built on Maruti’s Heartect platform that uses high tensile steel to keep occupants secure in the event of an unscheduled meeting with roadside obstacles.

    Inside, the WagonR offers modest luxuries including a 17.78cm infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, steering-mounted controls, and dual-tone interiors that aim to elevate the cabin ambience beyond utilitarian transport.

    As India’s car market continues its rapid evolution, the WagonR’s persistent chart-topping performance suggests that in a country where value still reigns supreme, this unassuming hatchback remains the undisputed king of the road.

  • Goyal’s Pivot spins heads at Lakmé Fashion Week, a sartorial butterfly effect

    Goyal’s Pivot spins heads at Lakmé Fashion Week, a sartorial butterfly effect

    MUMBAI: Somya Goyal’s Pivot collection, a veritable fashion fandango, pirouetted its way to victory at Lakmé Fashion Week, bagging the “Nexa Presents The Spotlight” award. Goyal, a design dynamo fresh from Pearl Academy and Central Saint Martins, London, showcased a collection that wasn’t just clothes; it was a manifesto on metamorphosis.

    Inspired by the butterfly effect – that tiny flap of wings causing a style tsunami – Goyal’s designs were a masterclass in versatility. Reversible silhouettes flirted with modular constructions, while gradient dyeing techniques painted the runway like a psychedelic sunset. Her 3D cord hand embroidery added a tactile kick, and colour-changing details kept the audience guessing, proving that this designer doesn’t just follow the beat, she remixes the entire track.

    Goyal, who launched her eponymous label in 2019, is a champion of sustainable chic, favouring natural and recycled fabrics. Her “Pivot” collection, however, was a bold experiment in reinvention, with garments that morphed and moved like a well-choreographed dance. “I wanted to explore how even the smallest design decisions can create a ripple effect,” she said, “transforming not just garments but the way we perceive fashion itself. The collection is a dialogue between precision and evolution—where modularity, reversibility, and fluid craftsmanship redefine versatility. For me, fashion is never static; it’ s an ever-changing expression, and Pivot is a  testament to that constant transformation.”

    “We are honoured to support initiatives such as ‘Nexa  e Vitara  Presents the Spotlight,’ which not only recognizes and celebrates emerging design talent, but also fosters innovation within the fashion industry. This season’ s theme has provided designers with a unique opportunity to explore the profound intersection of emotion, creativity, and storytelling through fashion. Somya Goyal has masterfully embodied the spirit of this theme with a bold and visionary collection,” said  Maruti Suzuki India senior executive officer marketing & sales Partho Banerjee.

    Meanwhile FDCI chairman Sunil Sethi stated, “We were impressed by the diverse and innovative presentations from participants nationwide, with Pivot by Somya Goyal’s showcase, particularly catching our attention.”

    In essence, Goyal’s “Pivot” wasn’t just a collection; it was a wink and a nudge to the ever-evolving nature of style, proving that even the subtlest design shift can create a full-blown fashion earthquake. This designer didn’t just turn heads; she spun them.

  • Mishra’s Silk Route hits high gear, Janhvi Kapoor revs up the runway

    Mishra’s Silk Route hits high gear, Janhvi Kapoor revs up the runway

    MUMBAI: Lakmé Fashion Week’s grand finale saw AFEW Rahul Mishra unveil his Fall Winter 2025 Silk Route collection, a sartorial odyssey that blended ancient trade routes with modern swagger. And what a ride it was. Janhvi Kapoor, channeling her inner Bond girl, rolled onto the runway in a gleaming Vitara, swathed in a figure-hugging, thigh-high slit willpower gown that could stop traffic – both vehicular and pedestrian.

    Mishra’s collection, a sumptuous tapestry of cultural cross-pollination, drew inspiration from the historic Silk Road, a conduit for goods, ideas, and, crucially, style. Think Indian bandhani flirting with Japanese shibori, and Henri Rousseau’s lush jungles mingling with miniature Indian paintings. It was a visual feast, a global mash-up for the discerning fashionista, whether they’re sipping chai in Mumbai or champagne in Paris.

    The runway itself, a clever nod to Nexa’s e-Vitara, featured blind-spot mirror installations, a wink to the future of automotive design and, perhaps, fashion itself. Mishra, ever the alchemist, transformed traditional Indian textiles into contemporary silhouettes, a fusion of old-world craft and new-wave innovation that felt both timeless and tantalisingly modern.

    Maruti Suzuki senior executive officer of marketing and sales Partho Banerjee chimed in, extolling the “seamless alignment” of the e-Vitara with Mishra’s vision. “We’re not just selling cars, we’re selling experiences,” he declared, hinting at a future where automotive elegance and haute couture are bedfellows.

    Mishra’s collection, with its focus on nowness and sustainable chic, delivered versatile separates that were as practical as they were breathtaking. It was a masterclass in modern couture, a reminder that fashion, like the Silk Road itself, is a journey, not a destination.

  • Maruti Suzuki & Hero Fincorp offer customised car financing across India

    Maruti Suzuki & Hero Fincorp offer customised car financing across India

    Mumbai: Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) has entered into a MoU with Hero Fincorp Limited to offer tailored financial solutions for new and pre-owned car loans. The partnership aims to combine Maruti Suzuki’s extensive network with Hero Fincorp’s customised financing options, providing customers with a broader range of choices.

    The MoU was signed by senior officials from both companies, including Partho Banerjee, senior executive officer, Marketing & Sales, and Kamal Mahtta, vice president of allied business from Maruti Suzuki, alongside Abhimanyu Munjal, MD & CEO of Hero Fincorp.

    Banerjee stated, “At Maruti Suzuki, our focus is always on the customer. This collaboration with Hero Fincorp strengthens our ability to provide innovative, transparent, and attractive financing options, offering customers over 40 retail finance partners to choose from.”

    Munjal added, “This partnership further advances Hero Fincorp’s mission to make car ownership easier and more accessible across India, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Our seamless digital solutions ensure we continue empowering Indians’ aspirations for upward mobility.”

    The alliance is expected to offer a hassle-free, comprehensive solution for car financing, expanding access to a wider customer base.

  • ITBP deploys 60 Maruti Suzuki Jimny SUVs for tough border terrains

    ITBP deploys 60 Maruti Suzuki Jimny SUVs for tough border terrains

    MUMBAI : The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is adding the rugged Maruti Suzuki Jimny to its fleet, with 60 units set to tackle the harsh landscapes of Leh-Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. Designed for tough terrain, the off-road SUVs are expected to enhance mobility in some of India’s most challenging border regions.

    The handover ceremony took place at ITBP Headquarters in New Delhi, attended by ITBP additional director general (HQ) Abdul Ghani Mir (IPS), and Maruti Suzuki senior executive officer for marketing & sales Partho Banerjee.

    The ITBP operates in extreme Himalayan conditions, with temperatures plummeting to -45°C in winter and landscapes ranging from glaciers to snow-covered mountains. The rugged terrain necessitates reliable, all-terrain vehicles for patrolling and border security operations.

    Maruti Suzuki Partho Banerjee stated, “This is a proud moment for us as we deliver the Jimny to the ITBP. The Jimny’s ‘Never Turn Back’ spirit aligns with the unwavering resolve of our soldiers. Maruti Suzuki has a long-standing association with the Armed Forces, with the Gypsy serving as a trusted companion for decades. With the Jimny, we continue this legacy, providing a vehicle designed to tackle the toughest terrains and support our forces at the frontiers.”

  • Maruti Suzuki Smart Finance accelerates past two million car loan mark

    Maruti Suzuki Smart Finance accelerates past two million car loan mark

    MUMBAI: Fasten your seatbelts! Maruti Suzuki Smart Finance (MSSF) is racing ahead, crossing the landmark of two million car loans in just five years. Bossing the car-buying experience since its launch in 2020, the platform has partnered with 28 finance institutions to offer seamless, transparent, and hassle-free financing solutions across the Arena and Nexa channels.

    Maruti Suzuki India senior executive officer for marketing and sales, Partho Banerjee, said, “Five years ago, Maruti Suzuki pioneered a digital, end-to-end car financing solution, transforming the car-buying experience in India. Today, almost 50 per cent of our car finance cases are being done through MSSF, reflecting our commitment to enhancing the convenience of our customers with innovative digital solutions. Furthermore, using this platform, customers can get their cars financed 24×7, 365 days a year from anywhere.”

    Designed to put customers in the driver’s seat, MSSF offers tailored loan plans, competitive financing options, and rapid approvals, sometimes within a day. The platform’s industry-first features, including on-road price configuration, credit score-based interest rates, pre-approved and customised loan offers, and real-time loan status tracking, have made car financing faster, more flexible, and effortless.

  • Maruti Suzuki rolls out “More Power to Your Play” campaign for Brezza

    Maruti Suzuki rolls out “More Power to Your Play” campaign for Brezza

    MUMBAI: Rev your engines because Maruti Suzuki has just turned up the heat on the roads with the launch of its “More Power to Your Play” campaign for the Brezza. Starring none other than Indian cinema Gen Z sensation Kartik Aaryan, the campaign promises a heady mix of style, power, and unmissable swagger.

    With over 12 lakh units sold, Brezza reigns supreme as India’s highest-selling compact SUV, and now it’s back with a bang to showcase why it’s the go-to choice for those who live life on their terms.

    Aaryan, thrilled about his association with the Brezza, shared, “The  Maruti Suzuki Brezza perfectly mirrors the spirit of today’s youth who believe in making their own rules.  What drew me to this campaign was how authentically it captures the pulse of young India. The powerful  1.5L engine combined with features like HUD display, 360 view camera, 6-speed automatic transmission  with paddle shifters, etc makes the Brezza a perfect partner for those who love to live life in their own style.  The campaign’s essence, ‘More Power to Your Play,’ truly resonates with my belief in living life authentically.”

    Maruti Suzuki India senior executive officer, marketing & sales, Partho Banerjee added, “We wanted to create a narrative that connects with our prospects and customers who seek a vehicle that matches their multifaceted and dynamic lifestyle. Kartik Aaryan’s  dynamic personality and Gen Z appeal make him the ideal brand ambassador for our Brezza. Through this partnership, we are showcasing how Brezza empowers our customers to make every moment special, whether they are conquering city streets or exploring uncharted territories.”

    He further added, “Since its inception, Brezza has established itself as India’s Highest selling compact SUV1 with over 12 Lakh units sold. Notably, over 36 per cent of our customers are first-time buyers, demonstrating  Brezza’s strong appeal and value proposition among young aspirational Indians.”

    The Brezza isn’t just any SUV—it’s a tech powerhouse. Highlights include:

    . 40 connected features to keep you in sync with the road and beyond.

    .  SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system for an immersive experience.

    .  360-view camera and head-up display for an edge in city or off-road adventures.

    .  Electric sunroof because, hey, who doesn’t love a bit of sunshine?

    And let’s not forget the driving options: 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a smooth 5-speed manual transmission.

    If you’re thinking, “Isn’t this just another car ad?”, think again. This campaign merges high-energy visuals with compelling storytelling, showing Aaryan in his element—confident, playful, and ready for adventure. It’s like an Indian cinema blockbuster but with horsepower.

    This integrated campaign will roll out across TV, digital, outdoor, and social media, ensuring the Brezza’s bold personality reaches every corner of the country. And with over 36 per cent of Brezza buyers being first-timers, Maruti Suzuki is betting big on this SUV to continue redefining the compact SUV segment.

    The Brezza promises more than just power—it’s your ticket to style, adventure, and tech-savvy drives. So, are you ready to give your play some power? The Brezza sure is.

  • Sidharth Malhotra named brand ambassador for Maruti Suzuki DZire

    Sidharth Malhotra named brand ambassador for Maruti Suzuki DZire

    Mumbai: Maruti Suzuki India has announced actor Sidharth Malhotra as the brand ambassador for the new Maruti Suzuki Dzire with a teaser, commencing bookings for its highly anticipated fourth-generation Dzire. India’s highest-selling compact sedan, the all-new Dzire is set to revolutionise the segment with its progressive design, segment-first features and unparalleled value proposition.

    Building on the remarkable legacy of the Dzire brand, this new generation model represents a significant leap forward in Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to offer exceptional vehicles to the Indian market.

    Maruti Suzuki India senior executive officer, marketing & sales, Partho Banerjee said, “The India growth story is a bright spot in the world today and this is fuelled by a new generation of ambitious, driven and confident Indians who are setting new benchmarks of success. We call these young achievers the thrivers, and it is for this driven and demanding consumer that we have designed the all-new Dzire- A car that matches the personality and compliments the successful life of the Thriver. To launch the all-new Dzire, we wanted to partner with someone who personified the essence of the ‘Thriver’ in spirit and in letter and it gives me immense pleasure in announcing that we found the perfect brand ambassador in Sidharth Malhotra.”