Maruti Ertiga, India’s first compact Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) by Maruti Suzuki is finally displayed at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012. The vehicle will undeniably make way difficult for the current MPV segment rulers Toyota Innova and Mahindra Xylo. The seven seater MPV is presented with extremely fuel efficient diesel and petrol engines. Maruti Ertiga will hit the showrooms by late march or early April this year, though the price is not announced yet, but it is expected to be around INR 7-9 Lakh consecutively to send chills down the spines of its challengers.

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Apart from the vibrant frontage and sweeping headlamps on the outside, it has tilt-able power steering, USB audio-port, besides Multi Information Display (MID), steering-mounted stereo controls and list goes on. Maruti Ertiga has big 15-inch alloys for better on-road grip, in addition it measures just 10mm shorter when compared to the length of Toyota Innova wheelbase. The spacious and comfortable bright-color beige interior is fitted with twin-air conditioner, central locking and power-windows. The final row of the seats in the cabin is reachable through a folding middle row. For better safety two airbags are incorporated for the first row occupants along with enhanced Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

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The diesel engine is powered by a tested 1.3L DDiS Super Turbo engine, which presently serves Maruti SX4 sedan, produces 88 bhp of power at 4000 rpm in combination with peak torque of 20.4 kgm at 1750 rpm. With this sort of engine a mileage of 20.77 km per litre can be achieved, certified by ARAI. On the other hand, K-series petrol motor with 1.4L VVT provides an ARAI validated fuel economy of 16.02 km per litre.

The petrol power-train yields maximum output of 94 bhp at 6000 rpm in conjunction with maximum torque of 13.2 kgm at 4000 rpm. Maruti Ertiga that was showcased as Maruti RIII in the concept form in the 2010 Auto Expo is expected to be made available in usual six variants with three in petrol and the rest in diesel form.