Mumbai, July 25 -- Maruti Suzuki has said it was compelled to pass on part of the higher costs arising from the West Asia crisis to customers, even as it expects the newly launched Brezza, equipped with new powertrain options, to strengthen its position in the compact SUV segment.

Speaking to ANI after the launch of the new Brezza, Senior Executive Officer (Marketing and Sales) Partho Banerjee said the automaker had delayed price increases for as long as possible despite rising costs.

"There has been cost pressure due to the West Asia crisis, and unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we have to pass on part of the cost to our customers," he said.

The new Brezza, launched at a starting price of Rs 7.39 lakh, has been introduced with ...