Maruti Suzuki Ertiga all set to enthral Indian audiences

Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to officially launch its first compact Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) Ertiga in the Indian auto industry, which was unveiled at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. The car is based on the Swift platform thus it appears like an extended version of the hatchback model. In fact, the short overhangs, compact length and a snubby bonnet of this MPV render the look of a gigantic hatchback. The width of Ertiga remains same as that of Swift while its height has marginally increased by 1685 mm, as compared to Swift’s 1530 mm. Moreover, the car has decent ground clearance, which provides it decent payload capacity.

The engineers at Maruti Suzuki have focussed over providing ample space in all three rows of Ertiga. Designing of this car was started by mid 2008 with the objective of providing maximum space at interiors within the frame of this compact MPV. The company has ensured that the third row seat will be completely utilised; thus, the 45 litre fuel tank is specially designed in flat pattern and placed under the two rear rows.

A 1.4-litre K14B VVT petrol engine and a D13A DDiS super turbo diesel engine will power the soon to be launched Ertiga. The diesel engine incorporated within the car is already used by the company in its SX4 diesel. Considering the petrol motor, the 1337 cc engine has the potential to generate maximum power of 93 bhp at 6000 rpm, while it attains peak torque of 130 Nm at 4000 rpm. On the other hand, the diesel engine of Ertiga is assimilated with a 1284 cc CRDi engine that churns out maximum power of 88 bhp at 4000 rpm. Furthermore, the maximum torque attuned by this engine is 200 Nm at a fairly low 1750 rpm. Both of these performance oriented engines are assimilated with five speed transmission system, which optimises the drive cycle of Ertiga.

As far as performance of Ertiga is concerned, its petrol engine delivers a decent mileage of 16.02 kmpl, whereas the diesel version runs 20.77 kmpl. The handling of Ertiga is fairly well, almost similar to that of a sedan. In order to deliver a smooth and hassle free driving experience, Maruti has incorporated MacPherson suspension systems at the front end, whereas torsion beam system is placed at the rear. The ratings of the springs of this car are marginally increased and dampers are stabilised, which enables Ertiga to sustain higher load. Owing to all these features, auto analysts speculate that the company will price this car between Rs. 6.5 lacs and Rs. 9 lacs.

Commenting upon the launch of Ertiga, Mayank Pareek, Managing Executive Officer (Marketing), Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “We launched Swift in 2005 and started the revolution in premium hatchback segment. We were aiming to sell 2,000 units per month but demand happened to be much more. With Ertiga, we are attempting to create a niche category as a city vehicle that is easy to drive and park in cramped parking spaces. The Ertiga will definitely have a waiting period even before launch.”