Maruti Ertiga (2017)

Expert Review by Maxabout

Overview

Maruti Ertiga is a seven seater compact MPV created by Japanese automobile manufacturer Suzuki. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is said to be the first LUV (Life Utility Vehicle). Unlike its competitors like the Toyota Innova, Chevrolet Tavera and Mahindra Xylo, this car is powered by a K-series 1.4 litre petrol engine. The production of The Maruti Ertiga proclaims to be from the R-III (R3) concept introduced by MSIL at the Indian Automobile Expo in 2010 in New Delhi. In addition, the name Ertiga comes from the word “Tiga" which means "three" in Indonesian while the R3 stands for the 3 rows. Therefore "Suzuki Ertiga" could be literally translated to mean "Swift with Three Rows."

Maruti Ertiga Exterior

Maruti Ertiga is a proper seven-seater with fold-able rear seats to increase the boot space. Maruti Ertiga looks very handsome and proportionate and gives feel of a MPV with its mono space design. The truth is that the Maruti Ertiga is challenging the already existing car brands in the segment just by looks alone. When it comes to style, the Ertiga exteriors are inspired from The Ritz hatchback especially on the front bumper with a grille that looks like a slot and a bellying bonnet. You can locate the Suzuki emblem on the slot-like radiator grille. Unlike the Ritz, the chin part of the Ertiga is much wider and bulky. It also has a huge air inlet complementing a MPV look with bulky headlights sweeping sidewards. The size and dimensions of the Ertiga are smaller in length compared with the Innova and the Xylo. It also has an elongated wheelbase with a higher roof that provides a good head room. The quarter glass allows the last row passengers to view the outside with tinted windows and windscreen.

The alloy wheels and wheel cover without a doubt further enhances the luxurious looks of the Ertiga. It features tiny tail-lamps with a non-spacious boot that has been designed with cost rather than practicality in mind. The lengthy look of Ertiga is visible with its elongated 2740mm wheelbase and the extra third row of seats. The lengthy appearance is what defines this vehicle as a LUV and thereby have not qualified to benefit the duty of small cars. The balance between the attention to detail of its MPV look and the Ritz inspired exteriors on this LUV are without a doubt quite impressive.

Maruti Ertiga Interior

The interior boasts a spacious and comfortable seating arrangement that is an ideal blend of everyday usability and space for big families. The interiors luxurious appearance comes from the contribution of light shade materials and the space that can accommodate up to seven people. The Ertiga also has a split design in the middle row which provides an improved cool and soothing look and feel. It also features fold-able rear seats with four-way adjustable front seats. The luxurious and premium interiors of the Ertiga radiate elegance, trust, class, versatility and agility. In addition, the vehicle has a lot of storage spaces inside such as coin holders, bottle holders, sun glass holders, etc. You can increase the luggage space by folding the 2nd and 3rd row of seats. The dash and steering wheel of Ertiga is similar to the new Swift but in combination of black and beige. The fully loaded variant of Maruti Ertiga also features steering mounted audio controls, manual HVAC and dash-integrated music system.

Comfort and Convenience

For increased driver comfort, the Maruti Ertiga features electrically adjustable outside rear-view mirrors. It features a 3 spoke electric power steering, which is tilt able and adjustable, with audio controls mounted on it, a key-less entry and central door locking that works very well while driving. Every row has been designed to provide maximum comfort to the passengers. The huge rear doors provide comfortable entry and exit of middle row passengers. The armrest is also an added comfort for middle seat passengers with a hidden fold-able storage space located in the backrest of the middle seat. Middle seat passengers can also fold down the 60:40 split seats to create additional space and practicality in the vehicle. A spare tyre is attached to the chassis of the vehicle in the event you have tire trouble in the middle of nowhere.

Dashboard and Instrument Cluster

The Maruti Ertiga has quite a complete multifunctional instrument cluster that displays information that is integrated into the meter cluster. It also features a Security Alarm System which covers door and hood sensing, an immobilizer, a seat belt reminder for the driver’s seat and a Door ajar reminder. Maruti Ertiga has extra storage spaces for coins, bottles/cups and sunglasses. It is quite clear on Ertiga that there are no issues with regards to the seats especially for seven passengers. The Maruti Ertiga has an informative light-on and key-on reminder and a low fuel warning. It also includes a power steering wheel column that can be tilted for the comfort of the driver.

The steering wheel also incorporates audio controls so that the driver can conveniently and safely change music as necessary without taking his eyes off the road or his hands off the wheel. The Ertiga’s steering wheel gives you a good look and feel with a nice and interesting appeal. The Maruti Ertiga also provides extra comfort with 2nd row AC with heater. The electrically adjustable ORVMs and ORVM mounted side turn indicators are added modern features of the car. Ertiga MPV comes with front intermittent wipers plus washer, rear window defogger and rear wiper with washer that are noticeable on the rear windscreen. The boot may not be that very spacious because of the seven seats of the vehicle but the other features such as the coloured bumpers on the body to its remote fuel lid opener, fog lamps in the front and in the rear and a stop lamp that is mounted higher than usual gave Ertiga a thumbs up.

Music System of Maruti Ertiga

The Maruti Ertiga's audio system is powerful and comes with 4+2 speakers and USB compatibility. It includes a Kenwood MP3 player with FM, AM Radio and a single CD player that includes a remote function that allows changing the music or volume for both front and back seat passengers.

Engine and Gearbox

The Maruti Ertiga model comes with both diesel and petrol variants. Both diesel and petrol variants contains a 4 cylinder in-line arrangement in the engine. The petrol variant of the vehicle is powered by a 1.4 litre power train. The petrol engine can generate a maximum power of 93.8 Bhp along with a maximum torque of 130 Nm with a displacement of 1373cc. The engine claims low NVH, low friction and is light weight.

On the other hand, the diesel engine is powered by a Multijet 1.3L turbo diesel engine with DDiS and a 1248cc of displacement. For better efficiency, the Ertiga’s diesel engine comes with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT). The diesel can deliver a peak power of 88.8 Bhp with a peak torque of 200 Nm.

Acceleration and Performance

The Maruti Ertiga contains variable valve timing (VVT) technology that allows the change of fuel intake timing for a continuous power generation thereby guaranteeing you a maximum use of the power engine. The VVT technology not only guarantees maximum engine performance but also ensures maximum fuel consumption and lesser emissions thereby maximizing the acceleration. Maruti Ertiga’s petrol and diesel versions are coupled with a five speed manual transmission. All of its variants are BS-IV emission compatible which produces lesser Co2 in the environment. The noise levels are on average frequencies inside the passenger cabin because the engine bay is covered with sound-deadening material and hydraulic engine mounts to lessen the vibrations created by the engine.

Maruti Ertiga Mileage

As mentioned earlier, the Maruti Ertiga uses variable valve timing (VVT) technology that allows the change of fuel intake timing for continuous power generation thereby assuring maximum fuel consumption and lesser emissions. It has an ARAI certified mileage of 16 kmpl for the petrol model and 20 kmpl for the diesel model which makes this vehicle the most fuel efficient LUV in its series.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety features, customers will not be disappointed by the Maruti Ertiga. It contains a lot of standard and modernized safety features. The safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD and engine immobilizer and high tensile roof. Its Anti-lock Braking system provides the vehicle with the correct braking balance between the rear and front axles. With these sophisticated security features, it provides peace of mind to the passengers from any possible risks of injury in case of a collision.

Suspension and Braking

The Maruti Ertiga includes front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes that are proven to be super when it comes to applying the brakes. It has been specially designed to be aerodynamically efficient when it comes to high speeds and heavy traffic. The Ertiga’s suspension system is exceptionally excellent wherein the front suspension contains independent MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension contains non-independent, torsion beams. The unique turning circle radius and less body roll guarantees excellent stability in this vehicle. These are the reasons the Ertiga is safe and secure while driving.

Ride and Handling

The integrated design and construction of the body provides comfort and smooth driving no matter the terrain. It also guarantees superior handling and brakes as the Maruti Suzuki is famous for creating durable and stable vehicles. The light weight and easy to handle steering also provides smooth driving in the Ertiga.

Shades

These are the available shades or colors in Maruti Ertiga: Ecru Beige, Serene Blue, Fire Brick Red, Silky Silver, Granite Grey, Superior White and Dusky Brown.

Accessories on Offer

Maruti Ertiga accessories undergo rigorous quality tests before being distributed on the market. The accessories are tested under superior conditions that replicate the real usability conditions of the vehicle. Maruti’s research and development and quality engineer’s teams have worked hand-in-hand to develop high quality accessories. The Maruti Ertiga accessories have very competitive prices and provide the customer with good value for money and quality. You can view a wide range of accessories of Maruti Ertiga at any retail store and even online stores that sell car parts.

Reasons to Buy Maruti Ertiga

Should you buy a Maruti Ertiga? If you are looking for a good alternate to any existing hatchback for traffic conditions, with a good driving position, smooth and responsive engine and clutch, exceptional safety and functional features and excellent inner space especially in the practical middle row option this is a good buy. It has a 185 mm ground clearance which allows it to ride through pot holes as well as speed breakers quite easily. With its 7 passenger seating capacity it will be good for your family and a better if you need a 5 seater with enough luggage space when you must travel long distances. With its features, performance, comfort and good looks, indeed the Maruti Ertiga is good vehicle option and is of good value for money for the average car purchaser.

Verdict

With the above description, features and specifications about the Maruti Ertiga, it is not a bad buy. It has enough storage capacity, a stylish design, comfortable fine quality interiors and numerous premium features and so it will be a good catch for many who are on the market for a good LUV. Some feel that this is more of a city family car and is not ideal for highways or long drives. No eye can surpass the luxurious interiors and stylish looks of Maruti Ertiga especially if you experience its dynamic features and great comfort and ease while driving. Though we are quite impressed with the quality, fit, finish and looks of Ertiga, having a test drive with the car can let you judge its overall quality and performance, so you can make the purchase decision that is right for you and not.

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