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This new hybrid drivetrain is a full parallel system – meaning it can run on electricity alone for short distances – utilizing a 1.2-liter gasoline-burning engine with a 50 kW electric motor. Unlike many hybrids that use a CVT transmission, the SX4 is equipped with a five-speed automated manual unit. A lithium ion battery pack of unknown capacity stores the electrons.


Also new is the front bumper, which now places fog lights were air inlets used to be. Instead of oversized upper grille and lower air intake, the car now takes on a more modest and realistic look. However, the new rear bumper is more robust and sporty, which has the unfortunate effect of making the car look a bit disjointed.


In addition to the cool R3 MPV, Suzuki is also showing off a new SX4 Hybrid concept vehicle at the New Delhi Motor Show. Interestingly, this SX4 uses a previously unseen hybrid system developed by Maruti Suzuki with assistance from India's National Hybrid Propulsion Program and the (deep breath) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources' High Energy Density Battery Development Program.


Maruti Suzuki, the Indian subsidiary of the Japanese automaker, will showcase a fleet of the hybrid cars at this year's Commonwealth Games in Delhi. Developed under a partnership with several government programmes, the Suzuki SX4 Hybrid could enter mass production within five years.


Suzuki's subsidiary in India has introduced a new concept version of the SX4. The automaker introduced the vehicle at the Auto Expo 2010 in New Delhi.
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