Maruti Ertiga: When we think of affordable 7-seater cars in India, the first name that pops into our heads is Maruti Suzuki Ertiga.
Ever since its debut, the Ertiga has quickly become the default MPV for those in need for a family car, working for small business, and even catering to fleet operators.
Its draw is that it is versatile — handling the daily commute, a weekend away and even city-to-city — and plenty spacious for a large family.
In its latest avatar, Maruti Suzuki has given the Ertiga a makeover in terms of looks, features, technology as well as fuel efficiency, while also managing to maintain a competitive price point.
So let’s delve into why the Ertiga continues to be a bestseller of this segment.
Design: Subtle Yet Modern
Maruti Ertiga design is plain and simple but classy. It doesn’t shout out for attention but it does appear contemporary and harmonious.
Chrome-studded grille, sharp headlamps, neatly chiseled bumper adorn the front fascia.
The clean side profile has subdued character lines and 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels which are raised to enhance the stance.
Wraparound tail lights with LED elements at the back lends the Ertiga a modern appearance.
It isn’t flashy in anyway, but it is well made and has a family-friendly look that won’t divide opinions.
Cabin and Space: Functionality Takes Precedence
The Ertiga has an interior to be proud of, well-thought of layout. There’s a beige-and-wood two-tone scheme that gives the cabin a classier feel than its price suggests, and the interior space is quite generous for a seven-seat, three-row vehicle.
The seats are supportive and well padded, particularly in the first two rows.
The second row is spacious and can slide forward and backward as necessary.
The third row, though kiddie-suitable or short-haul for full-grown humans, is still capable of managing mid-size adults for limited distances.
The boot with all rows in use is small, but gets a lot better when the third row is folded flat.
This flexibility is extremely useful for families that have extra gear or luggage with them.
Engine and Performance
The Ertiga gets a 1.5-litre K15C petrol engine wit Smart Hybrid technology.
It produces 103 PS of power and 136.8 Nm of torque, mated to 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
The engine is designed for easy- going performance. It’s not designed for speed, but it’s perfectly attuned to relaxed city and highway cruises.
Its lighter weight and hybrid technology also result in price-efficient fuel economy, as the petrol model is rated at upto 20.5 km/l, while the CNG model promises even better figure.
It has a soft, supple ride that swallows the vast majority of road imperfections.
The steering is feather light which makes it effortless to manoeuvre the car even in heavy traffic and narrow city lanes.
Features and Technology
Maruti has loaded the Ertiga with a good set of features. Highlights include:
7-inch SmartPlay Pro infotainment system.
Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
Automatic climate control
Ventilated cup holders
Cruise control
Second and third row with rear AC vents
Reversing camera, and sensors
It may not have all the bells and whistles you get on higher-end SUVs, but then it gets the basics right for the kinds of customers it’s aimed at.
Safety Features
Safety is covered with:
Air frons dual bags (4 in top end)
ABS with EBD
ESP with Hill Hold Control (only in automatic)
ISOFIX child seat anchors
Speed alert system
Global NCAP gave it a 3-star rating, which is not class-leading, but also not bad for what it is.
Pros of Maruti Ertiga
Great mileage, CNG version is best in its segment
Flat and useable 7 seater set-up
Nimble both around town and in highway driving
Good resale value and Maruti’s service network.
Good price for what it is
CNG variant for reduced running costs
Cons of Maruti Ertiga
No diesel engine option
Adults will feel cramped in the third row
Small number of premium features compared with upstarts
Softly-sprung suspension may feel wallowy at high speed
Construction quality isn’t as nice as that of some competitors
Maruti Ertiga: Verdict
Bottomline The Ertiga is still one of the most practical buys in India for someone seeking a pocket-friendly 7-seater car.
For home to office and back-maneuvering the Ertiga in traffic can be a breeze and parking not a pain while on the open road this is comfortable for long distances, and even for mass transport with fleets transporting employees long distances across the city.
For families that could use that extra space without bleeding their wallets, the Ertiga is not just a car — it is a solution.