Speculations are rife in the Indian auto circuit that the much anticipated Maruti Suzuki Ertiga will be launched on April 11th. Although IAB has not received any official communication from Maruti’s side, there is a very good chance that this speculation might just be true as a reputed newspaper like TheEconomicTimes is carrying this information.
The Maruti Ertiga was showcased in its concept version at the 2010 Auto Expo. It was called the Concept R3. At the 2012 Auto Expo, the R3 was finally showcased in production ready form and a new name was adopted – Ertiga. The Ertiga promises to open up a new segment in the Indian auto market. Just like the Duster and EcoSport are Compact SUVs, the Ertiga is a Compact MPV.
The Ertiga uses an extended Ritz platform as it base and will be available in a 7 seater option. Although, the Ertiga uses an existing platform, its a new car. Maruti Suzuki will also debut its brand new 1.4L K series petrol engine in the Ertiga. It will generate 94 BHp of power and 130 Nm of torque.
However, the volume booster will most certainly be the diesel model. The Ertiga will use the tried-and-tested 1.3 Multijet diesel engine from Fiat producing 90 bhp and 200 Nm of torque. Various sources claim an exceptional mileage of 20.77 kmpl from the diesel variant.
Maruti Suzuki is betting big on the Ertiga. The company is planning to sell 5000 units of the Ertiga every month. It will be produced in Maruti Suzuki’s Gurgoan facility and will also be exported to Indonesia soon after the India launch.
Earlier reports indicated the Ertiga will be priced between Rs.7 lakhs and Rs.9 lakhs. However, Maruti Suzuki is waiting for the budget changes to be announced on the 16th of March. The proposed excise duty on diesel cars might just push the price of the Ertiga in double digits.
[Source: Economictimes.indiatimes.com]
