Maruti Suzuki Price Cuts Drive 15–20% Surge in Customer Enquiries: Report

New Delhi – Customer enquiries for cars have jumped 15–20 per cent across segments after Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL) announced it would fully pass on the benefits of GST 2.0 through sharp price cuts, according to a report released on Friday.

Dealers have reported strong growth in both online and walk-in enquiries, particularly for entry-level cars such as the Alto K10, Celerio, S-Presso, and Wagon R in Tier-1 cities, HSBC Global Investment said. The share of first-time buyers has also risen by 5–7 per cent of total bookings.

The premium hatchback segment, including models like the Swift and Baleno, is witnessing healthy demand as well. With the festive season ahead, the report projects double-digit year-on-year growth in passenger vehicle sales, compared to earlier single-digit expectations.

MSIL announced reductions of 11–21 per cent on entry-level cars, 9–11 per cent on premium hatchbacks, and up to 8 per cent on the Brezza—cuts deeper than the GST relief of 3.5–8 per cent. Prices of entry-level models have dropped significantly, with the Alto K10 and S-Presso seeing reductions of up to ?1.07 lakh and ?1.29 lakh, respectively.

The GST Council recently simplified the tax structure to two slabs—5 per cent and 18 per cent—replacing the earlier four-tier system. Small cars now attract 18 per cent GST, while larger vehicles remain at 40 per cent, with EVs continuing under a concessional 5 per cent rate.

With inputs from IANS