Cosmetically, the Ciaz boasts an updated front facia made up of new projector-type headlights with integrated daytime running LEDs, a redesigned front bumper and grille, chrome detailing on higher-spec models as well as new 16-inch alloy wheels, a restyled rear bumper and LED combination taillights.

Inside, the changes are restricted to a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4.2-inch TFT instrument cluster display, upgraded fabrics, new steering wheel and faux wood inserts.

Residing underneath the bonnet, the Ciaz will go on sale in its home market again with a choice of two engines, although both now incorporate a mild-hybrid setup, dubbed Smart Hybrid, that features dual batteries which stores otherwise lost energy when braking and in start/stop traffic.

Providing petrol power, Maruti has replaced the previous 1.4-litre K14B mill with the brand-new 1.5-litre K15B that also powers the new Jimny, and which produces 77kW/138Nm. According to Maruti, the engine, despite being bigger, trumps the 1.4 on fuel consumption with a claimed 4.6-litres/100km for models fitted with the five-speed manual gearbox and 4.9-litres/100km for variants equipped with the four-speed automatic.

Carried over from the previous Ciaz, the Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre Multijet turbodiesel again punches out 66kW/200Nm, but only comes with the manual ‘box and is claimed to consume diesel at a rate of 3.6-litres/100km.

Model-wise, the Ciaz ushers in four new trim designation with the entry-level Sigma getting the aforementioned wood trim, chrome finishes, TFT display on petrol models and projector headlights albeit without the LEDs as standard, as well as 15-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, a standard audio system with steering wheel mounted volume controls, rear parking sensors, front and rear armrests, ABS with EBD, electric windows all around, rear air-conditioning vents and dual front airbags.

Building on this, the Delta comes with 15-inch alloys, chrome door sills, automatic climate control, height adjustable driver’s seat and ESP with Hill Hold Assist on petrol automatic models, while the Zeta receives auto on/off LED headlights with the daytime running LEDs, push-button start, reverse camera displayed on the rear-view mirror, LED taillights and a rear window blind.

At the top end, the suitably titled Alpha swaps the 15-inch alloys for the precision-cut 16-inch rollers, and further adds the new infotainment system, chrome door handles, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob as well as cruise control.

Completing the Ciaz’s changes are seven new colour choices; Nexa Blue, Premium Silver Metallic, Magma Grey Metallic, Pearl Snow White, Pearl Midnight Black, Pearl Dignity Brown Metallic and Pearl Sangria Red.

At present, Suzuki Auto South Africa has not net yet announced when the Ciaz would become available, but as indicated, expect it to arrive towards the end of 2018 and only with the petrol motor minus the hybrid setup.

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Additional reporting from autocarindia.com