Maruti S-Cross to cut teeth in tough Himalayan Raid

The 17^th edition of the Maruti Suzuki Raid-De-Himalaya, the world’s highest altitude motoring rally which kicks off on October 9, 2015 from Shimla, the Queen of hills, will see action from the recently launched S-Cross, the premium luxury crossover from Maruti Suzuki.

Four S-Cross vehicles will be debuting in this rally. Over 150 motorsport enthusiasts are expected to participate and cover a total distance of approximately 2000 km over 6 days. The S-Cross is offered in two diesel engine variants, a 1.3 litre and a 1.6 litre.

Known as one of the toughest rallies with the most trying terrains, this year’s Raid will traverse through an all-new and extra strenuous route. With the flag off from Shimla, the rally will pass through some of the harshest, yet most picturesque landscapes of Manali, Dalhousie, Rangdum and culminate at the valley city of Srinagar.

Split into Adventure and X-treme, the rally will take its participants through some of the highest altitudes – above 15000 ft, exposing them to the harshness of climate. With low oxygen levels and temperatures dipping to -21 degrees centigrade during night, the rally tests the endurance of the machine as well as the physical and mental fitness of the participant. For the first time ever, Maruti Suzuki Swift, India’s one of the most iconic brand will be participating in the Xtreme category.

Adding to the buzz are the all-women teams, who promise to give tough competition to the men in the rally. Bani Yadav, who has already been part of the Raid-de-Himalaya last year and Dakshin Dare this year, is one to watch out for. This year has seen a total of around. 10 women participants, as against the average of five over the last few years. Meanwhile, Manali man, Suresh Rana, nine times winner of Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya and three times winner of Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm rally will be back to raise the bar higher for the other drivers.