Maruti and Toyota Plan to Launch New 7-Seater Vehicle

Maruti Suzuki and Toyota are expanding their partnership with a new 7-seater vehicle expected to launch in the coming years. Following previous collaborations involving badge-engineered models, this new MPV will be sold through Maruti's Nexa showrooms. The vehicle is designed to be a more premium offering, positioned above the Ertiga and Rumion in both Maruti Suzuki and Toyota's lineups.

**Upcoming 7-Seater: An Electric Badge-Engineered Product**

Numerous reports have detailed Maruti's upcoming 'YMC' project, a 7-seater MPV intended as a premium version of the Ertiga. Toyota will also release its own version, placing it above the Rumion in their model range. This new vehicle is separate from earlier rumors about 7-seater versions of the Grand Vitara and Hyryder. The 'YMC' will be a completely new, all-electric model built on the Heartect-e platform, which also underpins the Maruti e Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Electric. With this MPV, Maruti aims to enter the electric MPV market, competing with vehicles like the Kia Carens Clavis EV and BYD e Max7.

**What To Expect**

Maruti has always prioritized spaciousness and affordability with the Ertiga. The new 7-seater is expected to continue this tradition, offering ample space, particularly for third-row passengers. The design may resemble an elongated e Vitara, featuring a long wheelbase. While test mules haven't been spotted yet, a new design is anticipated, potentially with connected elements similar to the e Vitara – understated but appealing. The interior could borrow elements and features from the e Vitara. Toyota's version will have a distinct design, though specific details are currently limited.

Expected features include a dual-screen setup for infotainment and instrumentation, a sunroof, wireless charging, ventilated seats, Level 2 ADAS, seven airbags (with six as standard), a 360-degree camera, and dedicated AC vents for the third row. Like other recent Maruti models, improved safety is expected. Toyota's MPV is likely to offer a similar set of features, although Toyota might add more to differentiate it.

Like the Maruti e Vitara, the 7-seater is expected to be powered by two battery pack options – 49kWh and 61kWh. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. the range might be slightly less than the e Vitara due to the larger size.

**Launch and Pricing**

The Maruti version was initially expected to launch by September 2026, followed by the Toyota version. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. given the delayed launch of the e Vitara, the launch might be pushed to late 2026 or early 2027. Pricing is difficult to predict at this stage, but it is estimated to be between Rs 18 lakh and Rs 26 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).