Delhi Auto Expo 2012: Maruti Suzuki showcase plans

After it's not so successful Maruti Suzuki Vitara, the Indian car giant is all set to tap into the growing multipurpose vehicle segment with the Ertiga compact MPV.

This seven-seater Ertiga will come with a new 1.4-litre K-Series petrol engine that uses variable valve timing and a 1.3-litre turbocharged diesel mill. With no strong competitors in the segment, the Ertiga would essentially be creating a category of its own. Its closest competitors could be the Mahindra Bolero and Tata Sumo Victa among diesel-powered cars. Among petrol MPVs though, it will likely have a free run. It may not be as spacious as the Bolero but expect quality to be top notch as per Maruti's standards.

One can also expect a lot of parts sharing with the Maruti Swift both inside and outside. The headlamp, in particular, resembles the Swift's while the rest of the exterior looks like an extended version of the Maruti Suzuki Ritz. The Ertiga will likely be priced at an aggressive Rs. 5.7 lakh, going all the way up to Rs. 8 lakh for its top-end diesel variant.

Ertiga MPV aside, Maruti may also be showcasing a small compact SUV, Swift Sport and a hybrid Swift at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo.

Expected price range:

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Petrol: Rs. 5.7 lakh

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Diesel: Rs. 8 lakh

Competition

*Ex-showroom Delhi Prices