LUV- THE NEW SEGMENT CAR

The Ertiga looks similar to a few cars - Ritz, Jazz, Innova. But overall it looks quite unique and catches the eye. There are no sore points. It may not have stellar looks. But there's nothing to dislike about the car. Maruti may have played safe with the looks, but I am not complaining.

The interior has several feature on the top end variants. The steel/chrome finish on the steering wheel etc. adds style, features like steering mounted controls are good. ACC could have been added to the top end though. The space inside is quite good. Taking into account the fact that the LUV only looks like a bigger hatchback, they have done a really good job with the interior spacing. Its only when the second row is fully pushed, that the third row is "strictly kids". Otherwise when the second row is kept at comfortable setaing position, the third row can easily accomodate two under six feeters. The third row when folded gives ample space for luggage. With third row up, there is hardly any  luggage space. At best it can accomodate a few small bags. Thats why, if the third row was split and removeable it would have given more options in terms of use of space.   

The K 14 petrol engine is a new one - but it drives very well. The tried and tested 1.3 L diesel does the job in the D variants. I wasn't sure of the luggability of the engines. But after the test test drives that I did (both petrol and Diesel) I was satisfied that it will do a good job.Though one needs to test it with six passengers and some luggage - to be completely sure. The gears are short and work well. The pomised FE is encouraging.

It drives just like a car which is a big positve- considering that it is an MUV. The steering wheel is really light. Turning radius is good. It handles very well at good speeds and when turning at corners.

Maruti has got a winner and now the othhers will have to do the catch up  job - as it has always been the case with Maruti hatchbacks.

If they can provide 50:50 split last row with option to remive, it will be 100% perfect.

 

Overall packaging, drive,pricelast row should have been split with option to remove