Maruti Suzuki Ertiga was first unveiled at the Auto Expo held in New Delhi in 2010 as Maruti R3 concept. Company chose the same platform, and finally Ertiga's global debut took place at 2012 Auto Expo held in Delhi. Ertiga, parading out from the stables of Maruti Suzuki assimilates very Indian design, and later will be trimmed for other global markets. Usually, all other cars by Maruti are designed according to the requirements of foreign markets, and then tailor made for the Indian market. The compact LUV has been developed in collaboration with parent Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC)'s research and design wing in Japan, but is manufactured in India itself. The Ertiga is produced at company's facility in Gurgaon, India. Maruti Suzuki has vested nearly Rs 430 crore (Rs 4.3 billion) in developing Ertiga. The designers have carefully built in `features and attributes’ of a sedan in a compact MPV Maruti Ertiga, which is essentially built on theme of togetherness.
The fully grown seven-seater MPV or rather, LUV, is available in both petrol and diesel variants and also in three different trims. Based on Maruti Swift’s platform, Maruti Ertiga's petrol version is packed with an all new 1.4 litre 1373cc K series (K14B) engine that produces a maximum power of 93.7bhp at 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 130 Nm at 4000 rpm. Being the K-Series engine, the USP of these engines is that they are more fuel efficient. The Certified fuel efficiency (as per CMV Rule 155, India cycle) of Petrol Ertiga is a top of the class 16.02 km per litre. The 1.3 L 1196cc DDiS Super Turbo diesel engine is the other engine guise that powers the LUV. This Fiat sourced engine is similar to that of the Maruti SX4 sedan. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga diesel produces 88.7bhp at 4000 rpm and 200Nm at 1750 rpm. The Certified fuel efficiency (CMV Rule 155, India cycle) of Diesel Ertiga is a class leading at 20.77kmpl. Maruti MPV has a five speed manual transmission system and the car is a front wheel drive and sports fine quality interiors, which makes it more appealing.
Ertiga, a mini MPV, boasts of being extraordinarily spacious at the interior, with 4265mm in length and 2740 mm wheelbase. The top end models feature two airbags, while the Ertiga sans base model comes with the ABS mechanism. Ertiga MPV is available in six variants: LXi, VXi, ZXi, LDi, VDi and ZDi. The middle and top end variants of Maruti Ertiga are rich with twin AC, 3 spoke tilt-power steering with mounted controls, power windows with auto down on driver’s side, central locking, audio system (USB Compatible, 4+2 speakers), multi information display, keyless entry etc. The roof mounted AC vents in the second and the last row passenger seats provide utmost comfort.
Maruti Ertiga Petrol Models
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This is the base petrol model of the series. The Ertiga LXI is powered by K series 1.4 litre of petrol engine which belts out 93.7bhp of max power and 130Nm of maximum torque. Since it is the range opener, it is not stuffed with too many features but titlable steering wheel column, power steering, body color bumpers, manually folding OVRMs (outside rear view mirrors), multi trip meters, AC with heater, etc. come as standard.
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This is the mid range model of the new Maruti MPV also powered by the same K14B petrol engine with VVT. Ertiga VXI comes with features like central locking, electrically folding OVRMs, keyless entry, adjustable headrests, body colored OVRMs, door handles and many more. The mileage offered by all petrol variants is 16.02 kmpl.
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If one chooses to have ABS (Anti Lock Braking system) with EBD and brake assist on his Maruti Suzuki Ertiga VXI, he should go for this variant as it comes optional on VXi.
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The Ertiga ZXI is the range topper in petrol models. It is stuffed with a number of premium features which are not offered in the starting and medium range model. These features include Airbags, alloy wheels, outside temperature guage on information display integrated into meter cluster, front seat belt with pretensioners and force limiter for driver and co driver, steering wheels mounted audio controls, etc.
Maruti Ertiga CNG Models
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The Maruti LXi CNG is the CNG based variant launched in the portfolio of Ertiga in India. This new variant is also called as Ertiga Green and it is made available in two variants. The Ertiga LXi CNG is the entry level CNG variant. This model has the same 1.4-litre, 16-valve, K-Series petrol engine that has the displacing capacity of 1373cc. Most of of the features offered inside this CNG variant remains to be the same as its LXI petrol variant. Now, as a result of the integration of CNG kit, the new Maruti Suzuki Ertiga LXi CNG offers a peak mileage of 22.8 Km/Kg, which is brilliant. With the launch of the CNG based variants in this MPV, the company will certainly increase their market share in this segment.
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The all new Ertiga VXi CNG is the top end variant in the CNG Ertiga CNG line-up. Other than the features offered on the LXi CNG variant, the VXi CNG variant carries all the features offered on the VXi petrol variant, so it has a lot to offer to its buyers.
Maruti Ertiga Diesel Models
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The Ertiga LDi variant is the base diesel variant, powered by a 1.3 litre DDiS turbo diesel motor, which produces 88.8bhp power @ 4000rpm and 200Nm if peak torque. This variant carries exactly same features as Ertiga LXI, except the different engine system.
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Ertiga VDi sits in the mid diesel segment MPV and borrows its features from Maruti Suzuki Ertiga VXi, except the different engine system. VDi houses the same diesel engine as LDi. Maruti claims a mileage of ARAI certified 20.77 kmpl for all diesel variants including this one. It comes with ABS as standard safety feature in the car.
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The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga ZDI is the top end diesel variant and carries all the features offered with the ZXI model. The ZDI is the highest priced model among the Ertiga model range.
Maruti Ertiga Mileage
All the variants of this mini MPV abide by the new generation BS-IV emission norms and all the credit goes to Maruti India’s new age exquisite K series engine, which is highly fuel efficient and emits lower carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga does not disappoint customers in terms of mileage. The mileage of Ertiga impresses its consumers in a single drive. The petrol variant of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga delivers a perfect mileage of 16.02 km per litre . On the other hand, the diesel variant of Ertiga gives an impressive mileage of 20.77 km per litre, which is pretty good for a MPV. However, we expect that these figures will be possible to achieve only on highways and the city mileage would be comparatively low. The variable valve timing (VVT) technology in the mill of the Ertiga helps to change the timing of the fuel intake for continuous power generation that ensures maximum use of engine power. In other words, the new technology guarantees maximum fuel consumption, engine performance and lesser emissions thereby increasing acceleration.
Power of Maruti Ertiga
The petrol variant of Ertiga comes with K series (K 14) 1.4 litre of petrol engine with a displacement of 1373cc , which keeps the ability to produce maximum power of 93.7bhp at 6000 rpm with 130 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm . To our surprise, the K 14 petrol engine is the largest version of K-series so far and because of being enormous, it delivers better power and torque. The mini MPV is also be available in the diesel version, which will definitely bring a smile on the face of the Indian consumers. The diesel version of Maruti Ertiga features a 1.3 litre of 1248cc of DDiS super turbo diesel motor. The engine is pretty analogous to Maruti SX4 sedan and churns out 88.7bhp of power at 4000 rpm along with 200 Nm of torque at 1750 rpm. Variable Valve Timing in engine helps in continuous power generation guaranteeing maximum use of engine power.
Acceleration & Pick-Up
To enhance the pickup and acceleration of Ertiga, the engines are wisely mated with a five speed manual gearbox. Maruti has reduced the gearing compared to Maruti SX4 to work around the lag under 2000 rpm. The Maruti car can accelerate from 0 kmph to 100 kmph in 15 seconds for petrol and 15.5 seconds in diesel Ertiga . This gearbox provides the mini MPV an awesome acceleration and it doesn’t take much of a time to touch the top speed of 155 km per hour , which certainly sounds amazing. Maruti Suzuki India has made sure that the driver gets an awesome and relaxed driving experience.
Maruti Ertiga Exteriors
India's largest car maker, which sells every second car in the country, has shown a thumbs up with Ertiga thus challenging the already existing car brands in the segment. The Ertiga is designed in Japan by Suzuki’s design wing. However, it is purely made-for-India car. Ertiga is based on the RIII concept, and is based on Maruti Swift’s platform. Maruti Ertiga exteriors are inspired from Ritz hatchback especially if styling is considered. In the front, the nose of car looks very similar to that of Ritz, with its slot-like grille and bellying bonnet. The radiator grille contains the Suzuki emblem. However, the lower part or chin of Ertiga is quite unlike Ritz being much wide and bulky. The air inlet in between the body color bumper is large complementing a MPV look and so are the enclosures that house the fog lights. The headlights are more or less Swift type with bulged appearance and sweeping sideward. This is a people’s-mover, and that means a lot of additional space comes aboard, thanks to Ertiga’s elongated wheelbase measuring 2740 mm, raising it by 380mm as compared to the Ritz, and the roof is higher giving good head space. Maruti Ertiga is almost similar in size and dimensions as the Innova or the Xylo, however it is smaller in length. Among the three Xylo has the maximum interior comfort.
When viewed from side, the sweeping back ribbed roof catches attention. Body color outside mirrors and body color door handles are missed out from the lower variants of this new car so as to keep the price in check. The quarter glass helps the passengers of last row to view outside. The windows and windscreen are tinted to protect the inmates from sunlight. Alloy wheels with wheel cover heighten the luxury quotient of Ertiga. Ertiga MPV comes with tinted rear windscreen wrapping itself around the back rendering the MPV a ‘pillar-less’ look from the back. Even a wiper and defogger can be noticed on the rear windscreen. The tiny tail-lamps seem to have been designed with cost rather than visibility in mind. Body color bumpers continue at the rear also. The boot is not very spacious because of three seats in the MPV.
Exterior Measurements
The stretched 2740mm of wheelbase and the additional third row seats have rendered a lengthy appearance to Ertiga. The total length is 4265mm, well over the critical four-metre length. This has resulted in the Ertiga not qualifying for the lower excise duty benefit for small cars. However, the length is shorter in comparison to other MPVs plying on Indian roads. The width and height of this MPV comes out to be 1695mm and 1685mm respectively. What adds more appeal is the 15 inches of alloy wheels, which ensures smooth ride.Maruti Ertiga Interior
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga interiors can boasts of its seating capacity but not comfort although Maruti designers have put in all their efforts to give a satisfying product. The MPV is designed to lure the big Indian families looking for an ideal blend of everyday usability and space. The flowing line in interior cabin creates feeling of space. Ertiga is based on Maruti Swift’s platform. Light weight materials contribute majorly in giving the interiors a more luxurious look. The beige interior theme along with a number of styling features proves to be a real plus point for the car. Ertiga MPV that has a seven seater capacity has made a good attempt in utilizing the space inside the car. The 60:40 split design in middle row let the passengers to jump to the third row from the left hand side. The middle and last-row occupants gets proper cooling from roof-mounted AC vents in these rows. The rear seat also gets armrest with cup holders. The boot space is not much appreciable but foldable rear seats can make the boot large for keeping ample of luggage. The front seats having four-way adjustments, gets supportive seats . The new Ertiga sports a 5 speed manual gearbox, power windows with electrically adjustable mirror and auto down facility on driver’s side window. The 3 spoke tilt adjustable electric steering wheel works like magic while driving. The steering has audio controls mounted on it (top end model) along with keyless entry and central door locking. Audio system is powerful and comes with 4+2 speakers and USB compatibility. The instrument cluster has two trip meters and multi information display sums up the entire look of the front cabin. Remote for central locking, fuel filler and boot lid are also present in Ertiga. However, the driver seat has electric adjustments and the car is also blessed with a range of storage spaces inside including bottle holders, coin holders, sunglass holders, etc.
Interior Comfort
Ertiga is an audacious initiative, in which Maruti’s designers have carefully built in `features and attributes’ of a sedan in the form of a compact MPV to evolve a next generation vehicle. Built on the central theme of ‘togetherness’, Ertiga is an interesting mobility solution for young dynamic and confident Indians who want to hold back individuality and yet retain Indian custom of ‘togetherness’. The plush and premium interiors of the car exude trust, elegance, class, versatile character and agility. The interiors offer an array of new features such as a 3-spoke, tilt adjustable electric steering, twin AC, strong audio system with USB Compatibility and 4+2 speakers, steering mounted audio controls, central door locking and keyless entry, multi information display, power windows with auto down on driver’s side and electrically adjustable ORVMs. The Ertiga offers a three-row flexi-seating arrangement for 7 passengers (2+3+2) that is easier to operate and is high on storage space. Each row of the car has been designed keeping in mind the occupants’ seating requirements; whether for an individual’s day-to-day business commitments or for a family’s weekend shopping, dining or weekend drives. Large rear doors facilitate comfortable exit and entry of middle seat passengers. The armrest for middle seat passengers speaks volume for the comfort of this LUV. The foldable storage area is hidden in the backrest of middle seat which can store small items. The 60:40 split middle row has an option to fold down thus creating more space and practicality in the car.Maruti Ertiga Engine and Performance
As we have already mentioned, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga model is rolled-out in both diesel and petrol variants. Both the variants consist of 4 cylinder in-line arrangement in the engine. The petrol variant of the car is powered by a 1.4 liter power train of Maruti’s latest K Series with VVT. The K14B engine is the largest K series engine so far. With a displacement of 1373 cc, the petrol engine delivers a peak power of 93.7bhp along with a peak torque of 130 Nm. The engine boasts of low friction, low NVH and light weight. On the other hand, the diesel car model comes powered with 1.3L multijet turbo diesel engine with DDiS (Direct Diesel Injection System) with a displacement of 1248 cc. The Maruti Ertiga diesel engine is coupled with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) for better efficiency. The maximum power and maximum torque figures of the Ertiga diesel are 88.7bhp and 202.2Nm’, respectively. This is the same engine that Maruti is sourcing from Fiat for its SX4 sedan. The variable valve timing (VVT) technology in the mill of the Ertiga assists in changing the timing of fuel intake so that continuous power generation takes place ensuring maximum use of engine power. In other words, the new technology guarantees maximum fuel consumption, engine performance and lesser emissions thereby increasing acceleration. Both petrol and diesel versions of the car come coupled with a five speed manual transmission as standard. All variants of the car are compatible with the new generation BS-IV emission norms, thanks to the Maruti’s new age K series engine, which is not only better in fuel efficiency, but also emits lower Co2 in the environment, also refinement with engines is guaranteed. Since the passenger cabin is too close to the engine bay, noise levels are bound to be more than normal inside the cabin.Stereo & Accessories in Maruti Ertiga
Audio system in Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is powerful and comes with 4+2 speakers and USB compatibility. Nippon Kenwood MP3 player with FM, AM and Radio comes fitted in the car. Single CD player with remote function is available so that music system can be operated from back end of the car, and makes it more accessible.
Wheels
Wheels are positioned on the extreme ends of the car to make the drive safer and smooth for the consumers, the top end models of Maruti Ertiga features splendid 15 inches of alloy wheels with tyre of 185/65 size . These alloy wheels give the entire vehicle a sporty look along with 185mm of high ground clearance. The base and mid variants get steel wheels of same tyre size. The mid variants get full wheel covers.
Braking & Handling
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga ensures superb handling and brakes in the car as the firm is known for its low maintenance and durable vehicles. That is why this mini MPV is safe and secure while driving. Front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes in Ertiga proves to be excellent while applying brakes during emergencies and even generally. Maruti India has designed this car to be aerodynamically efficient, which not only keeps it unwavering on high speeds but also makes it easy for the driver to steer in heavy traffic . The monocoque body construction lends car like comfort and driving manners. It gives fine handling and bumpers or hurdles on road are hardly felt. The suspension system of Maruti Ertiga has been kept up to the mark as well. The front suspension of this MPV comprise of independent MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension includes non-independent, torsion beam. Genuine turning circle radius and less body roll ensures great stability in Ertiga. The steering is also light weighted and good to handle.
Handling & Safety
Ertiga doesn’t disappoint the consumers in terms of safety features. The MPV has wide range of standard and new age safety features, which will be protecting the occupants. There are two airbags, one for driver and the other one for co-passenger, Antilock Braking System (ABS) with EBD and brake assist that allows the car to get the right braking balance between the rear and front axle. There is also engine immobilizer and high tensile roof that adds on to the safety quotient of this multi utility vehicle. In India with a joint family which is very common it is necessary to own a vehicle which can accommodate many in comfort when planning a trip with family or friends. The need becomes inevitable for people like me who possess only a small vehicle. The only solution for this is to purchase a multipurpose vehicle which can be utilized for any kind of journey for large families. Many are compelled to sacrifice that desire when considering the size and the other inconveniences of such vehicles available in the market now. In 2010, my MPV dreams were revitalized by the concept called R3 which was displayed at the Delhi Auto Expo. When I came to know that R3 is being materialized as Ertiga my dreams took wings to fly. And when I saw the Maruti Ertiga for the 1st time at the 2012 Auto Expo I realized it wouldn’t be too late before I get my MPV. The Maruti Ertiga is making big news and has created a lot of interest in car buyers recently, so here I finally get behind the wheels of the latest MPV in town the Maruti Ertiga to bring you the first hand report which would make your buying decisions a bit easier. The market share for utility vehicles in India is 14 percent. 2/3rd of this market is monopolized by MPVs. In the last four years the MPV segment has registered a growth of 15 percent. The Toyota Innova, Mahindra Xylo, Tata Aria, Chevrolet Tavera, etc all have sold well. Maruti was, till now, just selling the Eeco in the MPV segment but it is considered more of a semi-urban unit and also lacked a diesel unit.
Ertiga comes anew into this segment where there are a lot of opportunities. Ertiga has also paved its way as a beginner in the new sub segment of compact MPVs. Maruti has classified Ertiga as a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV).
Exteriors
Ertiga is built on the platform of the new Swift which the Ritz and the Dzire also share. To state it lightly we may call the MPV an “extended Swift”. The length of the MPV is 4265 mm. It is less when compared to the senior opponents like Tata Aria, Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova. Ertiga is 155 mm taller than the Swift (1685 mm) and the wheel base is increased by 310 mm. Over hang is very less. All these reflect in the interior space. The ground clearance is also increased by 15 mm (185 mm) when compared to the Swift. The breadth of both the Ertiga and the Swift are the same (1695 mm). In short the physical attributes of the Ertiga is very suitable for the purpose of a compact MPV. The front view of Ertiga is very similar to that of Ritz. The grille and the bonnet contribute to the similarity. The large air dam, fog lamp area and the broad bumpers add a mature and proud look to the Ertiga. The long head lamp reminds one of the Swift’s. The specialties of the sides are 15 inch wheels (alloy wheels only available in Zxi and Zdi variant) and the thick wheel arch give a strong muscular look to the Ertiga. The sides also have very simple curves. The side profile becomes complete with wing mirrors (with turn indicators in Vxi, Vdi and the Zxi and Zdi variants), the roof line which is slanted a bit to the rear and the tail lamps which are extended to the side.
The Ertiga also gets a body clad spoiler which continues from the roofing, stop lamp, compact tail lamps and the Ertiga badging makes the rear noticeably different in the crowd read traffic.
Interiors
Now, let us enter the interiors. It is easy to enter and alight as the ground clearance is not higher than that of cars. Full marks to the design engineering team at Maruti for making ingress and egress so easy.
The pleasance of beige interiors in the cabin welcomes you giving a lot of bright and airy feel and making the cabin look much larger than it actually is. The beige color radiates wholly on the lower part of the dash board, center console, steering wheel, door pads and the comfortable and beautifully made seats that are wider and more supportive as compared to the Swift. The dash board seems similar to that of the Dzire but the color theme is different making the speedo cluster look sleek. To contrast the brilliance of beige the black color on the upper part of the dash board has been made lighter. The steering wheel is compact, feels chunky to grip and can be adjusted for height manually. The display on the instrument cluster is in yellow. The steering mounted audio control is only available in the Zxi and the Zdi variant. Music system and USB port are not available on base variants. The wing mirrors are electronically adjustable in Vxi, Vdi and Zxi and Zdi variants. The absence of dead pedal was felt much during our drive. We feel that all large cars meant for highway cruise should get the dead pedal as standard fitting as it’s very painful to drive without the pedal in place. The driver seat which can be adjusted in six positions makes the front view very comfortable and clear. The A pillars are a bit broad which makes the front sight a bit difficult in sharp curves. There is enough leg room in front seats and seating is more than comfortable. As the rear part of the front seats are a bit curved the knee space in the second row is increased.
Large rear doors and the second row seats which can be slid up to 240 mm makes the entry to the third row moderately comfortable. Three passengers can be seated in the second row and two in the third row without much discomfort. If the second and the third row seats are folded up to get a massive 735 litre of luggage space a mini playground of sorts. In Vxi, Vdi and Zxi, Zdi variants get roof mounted AC vents for the second and the third row passengers.
Engine – Suspension - Drive
The latest and the most powerful 1.4 litre, 4 cylinder VVT engine of the K series is used in petrol variants, this is the newest engine that Maruti has developed. Ertiga becomes the very first model to get this brand new Petrol engine. The new 1.4 K Series VVT engine produces 95 PS of power @6000 rpm. This engine makes a healthy torque of 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm. The new K series engine makes very less noise at idling also exhibits extra ordinary refinement, one of the smoothest petrol engines that we seen for some time. The Petrol Ertiga performed very spiritedly on the busy traffic roads and leaped ahead on highways. The only drawback is that it showed was a bit of low mid-range power but that was very negligible. The drive pleasure on the Ertiga is as good as that on any sedan. The handling is spot on thanks to the small overhangs and dimensions. Later we drove the important Diesel version of the Ertiga which is the biggest seller by default. The diesel Ertiga variant comes powered with the 1.3 litre DDIS super turbo engine that also powers the Maruti Suzuki SX4 Diesel. This VGT engine gives out 90 PS power @ 4000 rpm and has a good 200 Nm of torque that kicks in at 1750 rpm. Though silent at idle some amount noise of the diesel engine drifts into the cabin in high speed. The 5 speed manual gearbox which is commonly used in the Maruti family is used in the Ertiga too. The gear ratio has been adjusted according to the nature of the car to make it most drivable at all speeds. Gear shifting is smooth and accurate. The clutch pedal is super soft and enhances the comfort level during gear shifts. All the Ertiga variants have ABS while the ZXi and ZDi variants come with front driver and passenger side air bags for safety. The Maruti Ertiga uses Mc Pherson Strut in the front and the rear Torsion beam which is included in the suspension makes the ride handling more efficient. The suspension set up is tuned on the harder side. The Ertiga’s suspension has been fine-tuned according to the size and the weight of the vehicle to keep body roll minimal. The mono cock construction chassis of the Ertiga contributes a lot to the Ertiga’s car/sedan like drive nature. While all the other rival MPVs have used the ladder frame chassis, which is to be noted. Body roll and the drifting in low speeds are not experienced in the Ertiga mainly due to this chassis set up.
The Maruti Ertiga is a very good performer at all speeds and you can drive it with confidence through sharp curves and twisters due to its taut handling mainly done to the car like underpinnings. With the Ertiga Maruti begins a new MPV culture with its soft and accurate steering and extremely comfortable drive nature. The specialties of any Maruti product are underlined by a very good mileage. The Maruti Ertiga too excels in this department with the petrol variant of Ertiga giving 16.02 kmpl and the diesel variant of the Ertiga giving a mind boggling 20.77 kmpl according to ARAI test figures.
Verdict
The Maruti Ertiga easily excels in all departments, it comes loaded with all the stuff that makes a complete MPV plus also drives as easy as a Car/ Sedan. The build quality is excellent and the comfort level is pretty high for the segment. Compact dimensions from outside and large cabin area are its USP. The compact body dimension work in the Ertiga’s favor making it’s a breeze in traffic and while parking. The Maruti Ertiga comes in seven color options to choose from and in L, V and Z variants in Petrol and Diesel engine options. With the pricing starting at Rs. 5.89lakhs for the base LXi Petrol Ertiga and Rs 7.30 Lakhs for the Base LDi Ertiga there is nothing much that can go against the Maruti Ertiga to stop it rule the MPV segment. The Maruti Ertiga is easily another winner from the Maruti stable and our final words would be – Competition Seriously Beware as the LUV of the segment the Maruti Ertiga is here.
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