Maruti Suzuki Ertiga ZDI+: 5000km Long Term Review

Over the years, I’ve seen my choices change when it comes to cars. As a youngster a hatchback was all I wanted, but then a few years later I felt the need for a sedan. And now that I’m a father, the need for a spacious, comfortable MPV has preceded my want for everything else. As if on cue, Maruti offered us the Ertiga as a long termer. I couldn’t have asked for more, especially since this is the top of the line diesel ZDi+, with the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) technology. Interestingly, the wife was happy about the Ertiga for another reason – my in-laws have an Ertiga as well, and she says she’s been pretty fond of the vehicle for its space and comfort. The facelift the Ertiga got some time back has made it more pleasing to the eye. I am not a fan of chrome inserts on the grille, but the addition of chrome along with wider slats to the Ertiga’s grille has given it a more premium appearance.

The addition of the chromed slat above the rear number plate looks a bit overkill, though ERTIGA written there is a nice touch. The biggest changes are inside, especially for the driver. I’ve fallen in love with the revised dashboard and instrument console, with the highlight being the touchscreen infotainment system which also gets Apple CarPlay. It makes for easier connectivity, and is a boon to make or take calls on the go. Then there’s the space the Ertiga offers. My parents have taken a liking to the Ertiga’s spaciousness and comfort too. In fact, there was a weekend when my cousin’s family had come down, and when it was time to head out for dinner, it was the Ertiga with its seven spacious seats to the rescue. Legroom in the second row is really good, and even third row occupants are pretty comfortable, unless out for a 500km day.

Meanwhile, I’m happy about the Ertiga’s fuel efficient manners, especially with the SHVS that includes regenerative braking apart from start-stop, and I’m currently trying to see how much better the SHVS makes the Ertiga diesel. More on that in my next update.

Logbook

Total km to date: 5409km

Efficiency: 17.8kmpl

Date acquired: July 2016

Costs: Nil

Cheers: Space, touchscreen infotainment system

Sneers: Nothing yet