Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), the country's largest passenger car maker, has introduced a special limited edition variant of its popular A-Star hatchback in the country on December 10, 2012. The new model is called A-Star Aktiv and is launched in both manual (VXI) and automatic transmission (VXI A/T) trim levels. The new hatch from the stables of Maruti Suzuki has gotten dearer by a sum of Rs. 14,990, as compared to their previous models. The freshly launched A-Star Aktiv manual variant carries a price tag of Rs. Rs. 4,10,614 lakhs, while its automatic sibling is offered to domestic consumers at a price tag of Rs. 4,61,443 lakhs (ex-showroom of New Delhi). Further, Maruti Suzuki has affirmed its special A-Star Aktiv model is ‘packed with features that will complement the young generation’s personality.’
Informing about the company's newly launched special edition model of A-Star Aktiv hatchback, Manohar Bhat, Vice President (VP), Marketing, Maruti Suzuki was quoted as saying, “A-star is one of the most vibrant products in our portfolio. Some of its high points such as contemporary styling, dynamic handling and ride quality, best-in-class turning radius, power, flat torque and superior performance have made the A-star a popular choice especially amidst the youth. The stylish modifications in the A-star Aktiv are in line with our plans to offer our young and energetic customers a sleeker, more stylish and feature packed A-star. We are confident that this special edition will bring pride to select owners who possess it.”
Maruti Suzuki has done some 14 minor and major modifications in its A-star Aktiv's appearance, which carries a revamped interior and exterior attribute setting. The A-Star Aktiv's reworked exteriors feature red rear view door mirrors, sporty side body graphics, modish spoiler and fog lamp cover, off-set racing stripe and blackened film on the B-pillar. The interiors also get a stylish makeover with brand new rear parcel tray, steering wheel cover, door sill guard, seat covers along with a state-of-the-art keyless entry cum car security system.
Coming to safety and security attributes of special Maruti Suzuki A-Star Aktiv, the hatchback comes trimmed with a plethora of cutting-edge technologies, such as dual front-rear airbags, Front seat belt pre-tensioner and Front seat belt force-limiters. Further, the hatch comes incorporated with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) system, engine immobiliser, AT shift lock (key interlock device) and rear window defogger.
Coming to under-the-hood specifications of limited edition A-Star Aktiv, there have been no specific changes and the car comes assimilated with same 1.0 litre, 998 cc, K-Series K10B power-mill. Accordingly, the 1.0 litre motor churns out a peak power output of 66 bhp at 6,200 rpm and a torque delivery of 90 Nm. The fuel efficiency remains same at 19 kmpl, as claimed by ARAI.
Commenting on introduction of A-Star Aktiv in Indian small car market, in a statement MSIL said, “To bring vibrancy and excitement to the market, Maruti Suzuki India has introduced limited edition of A-Star, christened as A-Star Aktiv. The limited edition A-Star Aktiv is available in VXI and VXI AT variants.”
