The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, an affordable multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), is a standout choice for those who prioritize space, comfort, and fuel efficiency. With a balance of modern features and practicality, the Maruti Ertiga has carved out a niche in the Indian automobile market. This guide explores its features, specifications, and why it continues to be a popular choice.
Overview of the Maruti Ertiga
The Maruti Ertiga is combined affordability with modern technologies, which increase value for money in MPVs. That gives it the versatility for up to seven passengers, and the three-row interior is perfect for families and everyone else.
While the petrol variants include both the base model and the higher-spec model with added gadgetry, there is also a CNG option, and the fuel efficiency is quite good for daily driving.
Maruti Ertiga Price Range
- Base Model: ₹8.69 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Top Model: ₹13.03 lakh (ex-showroom)
The price makes it relatively affordable, especially as compared to other MPVs currently in the market, such as the Toyota Innova and Kia Carens.
Engine Information
The Ertiga is equipped with a 1.5 L petrol engine with SHT and 6-speed transmission for a better and more comfortable drive. Here’s a closer look:
Petrol Engine
- Power: 102 bhp @ 6000 rpm
- Torque: 136.8 Nm @ 4400 rpm
- Transmission: It comes with the 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic torque converter transmission system.
- Mileage (ARAI): Up to 20.51 kmpl
CNG Engine
- Power: 87 bhp
- Torque: 121.5 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Mileage (ARAI): 26.11 km/kg
The CNG variant is especially sought due to efficient fuel consumption, making the vehicles suitable for use by [long-distance] commuters.
Comfort and Cabin Features of Maruti Ertiga
The Ertiga excels in offering a comfortable and versatile cabin experience.
Interior Highlights
- Beige Interiors and Large Windows: Those provide open and large space shipping.
- Seven-inch SmartPlay Pro Infotainment System: Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are there, along with built-in voice control.
- Second-row Sliding Seats: Offer variability of leg space, thus improving the results for the comfort level of the passenger.
- Third-row Air Conditioning: Roof-mounted vents cool all passengers, except one at the rear end of the vehicle.
- Space: The third-row seating is also adjustable in such a way that it can be folded to provide a longer cargo hold. The boot capacity when folded is 550 liters, thus perfect for family trips.
Driving Experience
The Maruti Ertiga does not pose any challenge to operate and will not even require the user to get used to it if he or she is a first-time user of larger vehicles. It easily maneuvered with light steering, has good visibility, and very good body control with smooth suspension, making it ideal for city and highway use.
Ride Quality
- Low to Medium Speeds: The suspension absorbs road bumps effectively.
- High Speeds: Some vertical motion is noticeable but doesn’t compromise passenger comfort.
The CNG mode ensures smooth power delivery, even with a full load of passengers and luggage.
Safety Features of Maruti Ertiga
Safety is a crucial aspect of any vehicle, and the Ertiga includes the following features:
- Standard Features: Only antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and rear parking sensors can be considered essential inserts in the car.
- Enhanced Safety: Electronic Stability Program, Hill Hold Assist, and ISOFIX for child seat anchorage.
- Airbags: There are four: two front-side airbags in total.
However, in the latest tests by the Global NCAP the Ertiga secured only one star for its crashworthiness, which is an area that Suzuki needs to address.
Fuel Options and Efficiency
One advantage of having the Maruti Ertiga is the unconventional dual fuel system that can easily be toggled between petrol and compressed natural gas. This being the case, it is an asset to the environmentally conscious consumer who has the added advantage of saving on fuel expenses.
| Fuel Type | ARAI Mileage | User Reported Mileage |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol Manual | 20.51 kmpl | 18.83 kmpl |
| Petrol Auto | 20.3 kmpl | 18.5 kmpl |
| CNG Manual | 26.11 km/kg | 23.25 km/kg |
Pros and Cons of Maruti Ertiga
Pros
- Fuel Efficiency: Good area of operation when it comes to petrol as well as CNG models.
- Spacious Cabin: Suitable for long travels.
- Light Steering and Visibility: Responsive in handling especially within the congested urban centre.
- Smart Features: Suzuki Connect technology allows the AC to be activated remotely and to connect with Alexa.
Cons
- Third-row accessibility: The third row can be accessed fairly tightly because there is not much space in the seat-fold mechanism.
- Safety Rating: Safety-conscious customers are likely to give a one-star Global NCAP rating a thought as they consider their car purchases.
- Plastic Quality: The dominance of lower interior plastics causes interference with the general cabin appearance.
Competitors of Maruti Ertiga
The Ertiga has competitors in the MPV segment of the market. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Model | Price Range | Mileage | Seats | Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Rumion | ₹10.44 – ₹13.68 Lakh | 20.11 – 26.11 kmpl | 7 | 3 Stars |
| Kia Carens | ₹10.52 – ₹18 Lakh | 20.3 – 21.5 kmpl | 6/7 | 3 Stars |
| Renault Triber | ₹6 – ₹8.5 Lakh | 18 – 19 kmpl | 7 | 2 Stars |
Pricing, fuel economy, and versatility put the Ertiga ahead of many rival models.
Exterior and Styling
When it comes to styling, the Maruti Ertiga is generic but unpretentious, which underlines its practical orientation.
- Front Grille: Chrome winged to give a premium look.
- Colors: Comes in exciting colours such as Pearl Arctic White, Auburn Red, and Midnight Black.
- Wheels: With stylish two-tone alloy wheels fitted as standard.
- Although it may not be as glamorous as other low-cost sedans in the market, its simple design targets comfort-oriented family drivers.
Conclusion
The features highlighted above fully justify the Maruti Ertiga as being a perfect buy for any customer in the MPV market, particularly one who is looking for a vehicle with the shortest fuel consumption. Although it lacks safety and interior quality, it has an overall good safety rating and practicality to be one of the favorite cars in India.
