A new Maruti Suzuki test mule has been caught on camera in full detail for the first time, revealing its design from all angles.
The vehicle is most likely the YMC electric SUV, set to be larger than the eVitara and potentially available in both five and seven-seat configurations.
A new Maruti Suzuki test mule has been photographed in considerable detail for the first time, offering a proper look at its rear, side profile, front fascia, and a glimpse of the interior. The vehicle had previously appeared in spy shots of the Brezza facelift test mule, though only faintly and largely unnoticed. This time around, there is no ambiguity about its presence, and the images are clear enough to draw some informed conclusions.
The vehicle is unmistakably large, carrying SUV proportions and an overall stance that radiates electric car intent. That said, the possibility of it being a petrol or plug-in hybrid variant has not been entirely ruled out at this stage.
All Signs Point Towards the YMC Electric SUV
The strongest indication that this is an electric vehicle comes from the absence of a tailpipe.
Beyond that, the test mule appears to ride on 18-inch alloy wheels that look identical to those fitted on the eVitara, possibly shod with 225-section tyres. The platform, too, is expected to be shared with the eVitara, as the YMC is known to be underpinned by the same Heartect-e/27PL platform.
The Maruti Suzuki YMC is understood to be a seven-seater electric vehicle, though a five-seat variant is also likely. The presence of a rear parcel tray on this particular test mule lends further credence to the five-seat interpretation.
Front and Rear Design Cues
At the front, the test mule bears a clear resemblance to the Victoris ICE SUV. The headlight placement follows a conventional layout, and the LED daytime running light signature looks very similar to that of the Victoris.
The upper grille section also draws comparisons to the Victoris, though the lower bumper treatment appears distinct and unique to this model.
The rear is where this upcoming car stakes its own identity. It features a connected LED tail light strip with a unique light signature, horizontal reflectors on the bumper, and a shark fin antenna on the roof. UV-cut window glass is fitted as well, a feature no longer exclusive to Maruti's Nexa range following the launch of the Victoris.
What Else Could This Be
A rear left fuel filler cap is visible on this test mule, which opens the door to another possibility. It could potentially be the Grand Vitara facelift, updated to bring features currently available on the Victoris, such as ADAS, a 10.2-inch infotainment screen, and a TFT instrument cluster. Notably, the unit does not have a powered tailgate, unlike the Victoris.
A plug-in hybrid interpretation is also a faint possibility, though it remains the least likely scenario. What this test mule is almost certainly not is a refreshed Ertiga, given that the MPV was only recently updated with meaningful sheet metal changes at the rear.
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