This Car Sells More than Honda City But Is Being Discontinued!
In a surprising turn of events, Maruti Suzuki has decided to pull the plug on the Ciaz, a sedan that once ruled its segment and even outsold the legendary Honda City. Despite its strong brand recall and a dedicated customer base, the Ciaz is set to exit the Indian market. But why would Maruti discontinue a car that still finds buyers? Let’s dive into the story behind this unexpected farewell.
From Market Leader to Obsolete Contender
Launched in 2014 as the successor to the SX4, the Ciaz was a breath of fresh air in the midsize sedan segment. With its spacious interiors, fuel-efficient engine, and premium positioning under the Nexa brand, it quickly became a favorite among Indian buyers. For years, it locked horns with the Honda City and Hyundai Verna, often leading the sales charts.
However, the tide has turned. While February 2025 saw a surprising 128% year-on-year sales jump with 1,097 units sold—arch rival Honda City managed sales of only 889 units. However, the bigger picture tells a different story. In the first nine months of FY25, Ciaz sales plummeted by 34% compared to the previous year. Once a key player in the sedan segment, its grip on the market has loosened considerably.
The SUV Takeover: Changing Buyer Preferences
The decision to discontinue the Ciaz isn’t just about its declining numbers—it reflects a broader shift in the Indian car market. A decade ago, sedans accounted for 20% of passenger vehicle sales; today, that number has fallen below 10%. In contrast, SUVs now command over half of the market, reshaping the landscape and forcing manufacturers to rethink their strategies.
Maruti Suzuki, once a dominant force in the midsize sedan category, has seen its share shrink dramatically. Where it once held a 35-40% stake in the segment, today, it barely manages 11%. Meanwhile, models like the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus, and Skoda Slavia have taken the lead, pushing the Ciaz further into the shadows.
Why the Ciaz Had to Go
Several factors sealed the fate of the Ciaz:
• Outdated Design & Features: The last significant update came in 2018, leaving it trailing behind tech-savvy and feature-packed rivals.
• Limited Powertrain Options: The sole 1.5L petrol engine lacked variety, missing out on turbocharged or hybrid alternatives that buyers now prefer.
• Maruti’s Focus on SUVs: With models like the Grand Vitara, Jimny, and Fronx dominating its lineup, Maruti’s attention has shifted away from sedans.
• Shrinking Sedan Market: With fewer buyers opting for sedans, continuing production became financially unviable.
The Final Curtain Call
Production of the Ciaz will officially cease by March 2025, with sales expected to wrap up by April. This decision effectively marks Maruti Suzuki’s exit from the midsize sedan space, with no direct replacement in sight.
However, for those looking at the used car market, the Ciaz still holds appeal. Its spacious cabin, smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and solid build make it a value-for-money choice. But prospective buyers should consider the downsides—lack of modern features, possible spare part availability concerns in the long run, and an uncertain resale value.
A Symbol of an Industry in Transition
The discontinuation of the Ciaz isn’t just about one car—it represents a major shift in the Indian automobile industry. As SUVs dominate and sedans struggle to stay relevant, manufacturers are forced to adapt. Maruti Suzuki’s move is a strategic realignment, ensuring it remains in tune with evolving consumer preferences.
The Ciaz may be exiting the stage, but it leaves behind a legacy of affordability, reliability, and understated elegance. As India moves toward an SUV-centric future, the sedan that once took on the best will soon be just another chapter in Maruti’s long and evolving story.