Maruti Ertiga VXi (Old Model)

The Maruti Ertiga VXi is a compact MPV that excels in practicality and comfort. It features a 1.3-liter diesel or 1.2-liter petrol engine, both of which provide sufficient power for city and highway driving, although the diesel engine is generally preferred for its better pulling power. The interior is well-appointed with dual AC vents, ample legroom in the first two rows, and a comfortable seating arrangement. The ride quality is improved compared to earlier models, with a firmer suspension setup that handles road irregularities well. However, the third row is somewhat cramped, and accessing it can be challenging, especially for older passengers. The Ertiga also boasts a smooth and efficient gearbox, although some users have noted a lack of top-end performance in the petrol variant. Overall, it is a reliable, fuel-efficient, and spacious vehicle ideal for mid-size families in India.

The Maruti Ertiga VXi, particularly the older model from 2012-2015, is a practical and versatile vehicle that caters well to the needs of an extended Indian family. It offers excellent mileage, ample space in the first two rows, and a comfortable ride. However, it has its drawbacks, such as limited luggage space, difficulty in accessing the third row, especially for elders, and a lack of advanced features like a touchscreen system in the ZDi variant. Despite these, the Ertiga stands out for its fuel economy, ease of handling, and overall value for money. The suspension setup, although not plush, manages to handle road irregularities reasonably well. For those prioritizing practicality and fuel efficiency, the Ertiga VXi is a solid choice, but it may not appeal to those seeking high-performance or luxurious features.

Maruti Suzuki has discontinued the VXI and ZXI automatic variants of the Ertiga, leaving only the ZXI+ variant available with an automatic transmission. This move is part of their strategy to streamline their offerings and focus on higher-end variants. I think this could impact sales, as the VXI and ZXI were popular choices for many buyers.

The 2022 Maruti Ertiga update introduced a new 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, replacing the older 4-speed automatic. This change, along with the addition of paddle-shifters, brings the Ertiga more in line with its competitors. I believe this upgrade will enhance the driving experience significantly.

The older Ertiga VXI had a more basic interior design compared to the newer models, with features like single-tone cabin color, faux wood finish, and dual-tone seat fabric. While it was comfortable, it lacked the modern aesthetic and advanced features of the newer versions. I think the older design still held its own in terms of practicality.

In the past, the Maruti Ertiga VXI model was known for its affordable pricing, starting from around Rs. 5.89 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi. This made it a popular choice for families looking for a spacious and budget-friendly MPV. I believe the value for money was one of its strongest selling points.

The older Maruti Ertiga VXI model featured a 1373 cc K-Series petrol engine with VVT, producing 94 bhp and 130 Nm of torque. It was available with a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission. I think the engine was reliable but lacked the modern features and efficiency of newer models.

The Maruti Ertiga VXi, during its 2012-2015 run, was priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price for the VXi variant typically ranged between 7.5 lakhs to 8.5 lakhs, depending on the location and any additional features. On-road prices, including taxes and other costs, would usually be around 9 lakhs to 10 lakhs. This pricing made the Ertiga an attractive option for families looking for a reliable and spacious vehicle without breaking the bank. The value for money was a significant selling point, especially considering the low maintenance costs and good resale value associated with Maruti Suzuki vehicles.

The Maruti Ertiga VXi is known for its impressive fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily use. Users have reported an average mileage of around 13-16 kmpl in city and highway driving conditions, respectively. For those using the CNG variant, the mileage can be as high as 18-20 kmkg of CNG. These figures are quite commendable, especially considering the vehicles capacity to seat seven people comfortably. This makes the Ertiga an excellent option for those concerned about running costs and mileage.