In the ever-growing Indian automotive landscape, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga has established itself as the go-to Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) for families. Renowned for its unbeatable blend of space, comfort, and reliability, the Ertiga has been a trusted companion for millions across the nation. Now, Maruti Suzuki is ready to take this iconic MPV to new heights with a refreshed version that promises to enhance the overall driving and ownership experience.
Maruti Ertiga: A Legacy of Trust and Comfort
Since its launch in 2012, the Maruti Ertiga has ruled the MPV segment with its versatility, practicality, and affordable pricing. The Ertiga has garnered immense popularity due to its ability to offer the cabin space of a larger vehicle while maintaining the compactness and fuel efficiency of a smaller car. It’s not just a vehicle—it’s an integral part of Indian family life, serving as the perfect choice for long trips, school runs, and everything in between.
The New Maruti Ertiga: What’s New?
While the Ertiga’s core identity remains intact, the latest model brings a host of updates that elevate its appeal. Let’s take a closer look at the changes and innovations that make the new Ertiga a standout choice in the MPV segment.
Exterior: A Stylish Makeover
Maruti Suzuki has made thoughtful enhancements to the Ertiga’s exterior design, giving it a more premium and modern feel:
- Redesigned Front Grille: A new front grille with chrome accents gives the Ertiga a more refined and premium appearance.
- Sleek LED Headlamps: The upgraded headlamps, now with integrated Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs), improve both aesthetics and road visibility.
- New Alloy Wheels: Fresh alloy wheel designs add a dynamic, sporty touch to the vehicle.
- Updated Rear Styling: The rear now features stylish LED taillights, contributing to a more cohesive look.
These updates provide a perfect balance between the Ertiga’s familiar design and modern, attractive features that ensure it stands out on the road.
Interior: Luxury Meets Practicality
Inside, the Ertiga continues its legacy of offering a spacious and comfortable environment, now further enhanced with modern features:
- New 7-Inch SmartPlay Pro+ Infotainment System: The new touchscreen system offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seamless smartphone integration.
- Updated Instrument Cluster: The instrument cluster now includes a larger, color TFT display that provides clear, customizable vehicle information.
- Improved Comfort: Enhanced seat cushioning and bolstering offer better comfort, especially for long journeys. The third row now features adjustable headrests, making it more comfortable and safer for rear passengers.
- Premium Upholstery Options: Leatherette seat covers in higher trims lend a more sophisticated, premium touch to the cabin.
- Flexible Seating: The Ertiga retains its versatile seating options, offering easy adjustments for both passenger seating and cargo space, making it an ideal choice for various needs.
Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
The Ertiga remains as efficient and practical as ever, with new powertrain options designed for both performance and fuel economy:
- Petrol Engine: The 1.5-liter K15C Smart Hybrid petrol engine continues to power the Ertiga, delivering 103 PS of power and 136.8 Nm of torque. This engine is available with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- CNG Variant: The Ertiga also offers a CNG variant powered by the same 1.5-liter engine, producing 87 PS and 121.5 Nm of torque. This variant comes with a 5-speed manual transmission.
- Smart Hybrid Technology: Maruti’s Smart Hybrid system offers enhanced fuel efficiency by providing torque assist during acceleration and enabling features like idle start-stop, brake energy regeneration, and more.
- Fuel Efficiency: The petrol variant delivers an impressive 20.51 km/l, while the CNG variant claims an astounding 26.11 km/kg, making the Ertiga one of the most economical MPVs in its class.
Technology: Keeping Families Connected
The new Ertiga offers a host of advanced technology features that enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety:
- SmartPlay Pro+ Infotainment System: The new system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easier for families to stay connected on the go.
- Suzuki Connect Telematics: This telematics system provides over 40 features such as real-time vehicle tracking, geofencing, vehicle health monitoring, and remote functions like door lock/unlock and headlight control.
- Voice Command System: Hands-free control for various vehicle functions makes it safer and more convenient to operate.
- Cruise Control: Ideal for long highway journeys, the new cruise control feature enhances comfort.
- Automatic Climate Control: The automatic climate control system with rear AC vents ensures optimal comfort for all passengers.
Safety: A Top Priority
Maruti Suzuki has taken significant steps to improve the safety features in the new Ertiga, ensuring that it remains a safe choice for families:
- Standard Dual Front Airbags: Front airbags come as standard across all variants.
- ABS with EBD & Brake Assist: These features help maintain control and stability during emergency braking situations.
- ISOFIX Child Seat Anchorages: Securing child seats is now even easier with the addition of ISOFIX anchorages.
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP): ESP and Hill Hold Assist (in automatic variants) ensure better control during challenging driving conditions.
- Reinforced Body Structure: The Ertiga’s body is designed to better absorb and distribute impact forces in the event of a crash.
Variants & Pricing: Affordable Excellence
Maruti Suzuki offers the new Ertiga in several variants, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. Prices start from ₹8.35 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base petrol variant:
- LXi: ₹8.35 lakh
- VXi
- ZXi
- ZXi+
- Tour M (Taxi variant)
- CNG variants are available in VXi and ZXi trims.
This pricing structure ensures that the Ertiga remains affordable, while offering a range of features to suit different needs and budgets.
Market Positioning: Dominating the MPV Segment
The Maruti Ertiga has been a leader in the compact MPV segment for years, and with this update, Maruti Suzuki is further strengthening its position. The new Ertiga will continue to compete with rivals like the Kia Carens, Mahindra Marazzo, and Renault Triber, but its unbeatable combination of space, features, fuel efficiency, and Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network gives it a significant edge.
The Ertiga Experience: More Than Just a Car
Owning a Maruti Ertiga is not just about transportation; it’s about becoming part of a community. Maruti Suzuki has built a loyal fan base through:
- Exclusive Ertiga Owners’ Clubs: Road trips, meetups, and events designed for Ertiga owners.
- Dedicated Service Camps: Special service packages for Ertiga owners.
- Online Community: A robust online platform for owners to share experiences, tips, and modifications.
Looking Ahead: A Greener Future
As the automotive industry moves towards sustainability, there are speculations about the possibility of a hybrid or fully electric version of the Ertiga in the future. While no official announcements have been made, Maruti Suzuki’s focus on green mobility suggests that we might see more eco-friendly variants in the coming years.
Conclusion: The Heart of Indian Families
The new Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is more than just an updated model; it’s a reaffirmation of the MPV’s role in Indian family life. Combining space, efficiency, and modern features, the Ertiga is the perfect family vehicle for those seeking practicality, reliability, and comfort. With its competitive pricing, it remains a top choice for families, fleet operators, and anyone looking for a versatile vehicle that meets their diverse needs.
As the new Ertiga takes to the roads, it’s poised to continue its reign as the go-to MPV in India—meeting the evolving needs of modern families while staying true to the core values of affordability, reliability, and efficiency.
The journey of the Ertiga is far from over. In fact, with this new iteration, it’s clear that its best days are yet to come.