Maruti Suzuki Ertiga : When you think about a family car which is functional and comfortable at the least and fuel-efficient on the best, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is your go-to name in India.
Since its inception, the Ertiga has been a sellers’ delight offering something for both fleets and large families who are looking for a budget 7-seat vehicle. And the new Ertiga follows on this tradition with further evolution in design, features and frugality.
Whether it’s schlepping your extended family around or running a taxi service, the Ertiga is the kind of work-hose you can count on. Here’s a closer look at what is in the package.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Useful with Modern Design
The Ertiga never pretended to be posh. And it still has a clean, proportionate, family-friendly look. Its front grille has been changed to feature a winged chrome emblem, lending the car a more, ahem, quality look.
LED tail lamps smoked, and the 15-inch alloy wheels (on higher trims) makes the picture an interesting one, though overall the styling is still quite mild.
Its design is not intended to draw attention to yourself — it’s made to marry functionality with simplicity and that it does quite well.
Roomy Interior Perfect for Families
The interior of Ertiga feels spacious and thoughtfully laid out. The beige and brown Dual-tone dashboard, complete with the wooden inserts gives a warm and spacious environment.
The 7-seater configuration is designed with a second-row bench and 60:40 split-fold in two modes: Access (for narrow access to the third row) and Walk-in (for easier access between rows).
The second-row seats slide and recline and offer easy access to the third row, which is best for children or short stints for adults. There is little boot space with all of the seats up, but drop the third row and there is plenty of space for a long drive.
Feature-Loaded for the Price
Now however, the Ertiga has inched closer to the time with a few contemporary features:
7 SmartPlay Infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
‘It has got push-button start (and) keyless entry.
Rear AC vents
Auto climate control
Audio controls mounted on steering wheel
While it may not be as tech-forward as Jaguar’s F-Pace, which can be had with a sunroof, 360-degree camera and gesture control, it does everything you need it to. The NVH levels have also been worked upon and the cabin feels more silent than ever before.
Engine, Mileage & Performance
The Ertiga is propelled by a 1.5-litre K15C petrol engine that gets Suzuki’s mild-hybrid technology. It makes 103 PS/137 Nm of torque and can be had with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
It has a silky-smooth engine that makes it a great cruiser on the freeway and easy to drive around town every day.
The big story, however, is the fuel mileage numbers. The petrol model returns a fuel efficiency of 20.3km/l (manual) and 20.5km/l (auto), and the CNG variant gives 26.11km/kg, thus being one of the most fuel efficient MPVs in the country.
As a people mover, performance is sufficient, but not sporty. Even when it is filled to capacity it’s a cinch to manage and rides with composure at highway speeds.
Ride Quality and Safety
Ertiga has been tuned by Maruti with comfort in mind. It rolls over bumpy roads, speed bumps and chuckholes seamlessly. The ride is squishy, no bad thing for lengthy family trips.
Safety has been taken care of by dual airbags (4 in higher variants), ABS with EBD, ESP and Hill Hold Assist (AT only) and ISOFIX child seat anchors. It doesn’t boast a high safety rating from NCAP, but it satisfies the basic safety requirements of budget buyers.
Pros:
Great Mileage (CNG Particularly)
Flexible Seating and a Roomy Cabin
Reliable and Low-Maintenance
“Smooth ride and engine”
Best for Families & Commercial Use
High Resale Value and Large Service Network
Cons:
Limited storage space with all seats up
No Diesel Engine Option
Third-Row Is Best for Short Adults or Kids
Doesn’t Have the Sunroof Optional Feature, Only Sunroof Standard Amenities Not Included If you want a few extras like a moonroof or leather interior you will have to get the premium package.
Not the Best Safety Ratings
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Final Verdict
The Ertiga still remains the choice for families who are looking for a mix of comfort, convenience and value-for-money. It’s not the fanciest or most powerful in the segment, but its has the basics down.
For general family and commercial purposes, the Ertiga has been one of the most reliable 7-seaters in India.