Indian passenger car market leader Maruti Udyog Limited has announced a reduction in the prices of its entry-level model, the Maruti 800, by INR 16,286 (approx. Euro300). This works out to a significant 7.6% of the price of the base model (the only other variant being the air-conditioned version, which also has seen a similar price reduction).
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After the reduction, the Maruti 800 Standard will cost INR199, 350 (Euro 3,800) compared to INR 215,636 before the price cut. The air-conditioned variant now comes at INR 222,254, reduced from INR 238,540.
This development comes on the heels of the launch of the Suzuki Swift in India at aggressive prices. Maruti is creating space for each of its models in the small hatchback segment where it competes with some five model ranges.
To widen the market, Maruti had in the recent past introduced schemes like “2 ka 4” to facilitate entry of two wheeler owners into car segment. The scheme allowed trade-in of two-wheelers for a new car. But the lower price tag is targeted to attract more first time buyers into the loop.
The price is also aimed at curbing the decline in sales of the 800 model along with Maruti’s focus on deeper penetration in the rural market.
Deepesh Rathore / Tilak Swarup
