The Ertiga - A LUVly companion for travelling

Exterior

 Maruti Suzuki has done a pretty good job considering the exterior design. Its not as plain and bland like the Innova and it is handsome looking MPV...even though it has generic Suzuki traditional design. 8/10 for design.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

 Best for the price. Flexible seats with sliding/reclining feature makes full good use of the relatively compact cabin. It can accomodate 7 people with good comfort and space...the sliding and split middle row and the effective central AC helps this to a vast extent. Everything in the cabin is easy to use and ergonomics are very good and stylish with decent quality. 9/10 for cabin.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

 The 1.3 DDis engine is best and great on highways. The turbo helps it cruise all day long at three digit speeds. What the problem is that below 1900rpm, there is turbo lag and lack of power for signal to signal speedings in the city. The gearbox has to be worked by downshifting a gear then usual for keeping on the Turbo. The smooth gearbox and precise ratios makes the city drive acceptable. The tall 5th gear helps to achieve great efficiency. Giving 21.5kmpl at constant 100kmph speed on highways is never easy even for a midsize sedan. By maintaining constant steady speeds, the car rewards you with great mileage. This is a champion on the highways. 8/10 for engine and gearbox, 10/10 for mileage.

Ride Quality & Handling

 Very good ride and comfortable on rough roads. THe high ground clearance, 185mm is more than the Innova and can tackle almost every rough road. Stability is solid on the highways and the handling is best among MPVs, given that this is based on the Swift platform. So it is easy to drive in city and also on the highways...its quite entertaining too!! 9/10 for ride and handling.

Final Words

 Best car in the price range, great value and experience. Beats even the Innova and every mid size Sedan in all the factors.

Areas of improvement  

 Engine power below 2000rpm.

 

Excellent efficiency, comfortable and flexible cabin, highway cruising ability, easy drive, valueTurbo lag below 2000rpm