Maruti Ertiga VXI CNG

This festive season, MSIL has come up with the facelifted version of its popular MPV model, Ertiga. Among its various trims, this Maruti Ertiga VXI CNG comes with a 1.4-litre petrol engine that displaces 1373cc. This motor is also offered with a CNG fuel kit, which gives a mileage of about 22.8 Kmpl. Coming to the features list, it has a responsive steering wheel mounted with audio controls, manual air conditioning unit, well cushioned seats and a few utility based components too. This variants guarantee maximum protection through attributes like central locking, dual front airbags, high mount stop lamp, and door ajar reminder to name a few. Not only these, but its exteriors too have some noticeable elements, which brings vehicle an attractive look. Some of these include a trendy headlight cluster, chrome garnished back door and a set of steel wheels.

Exteriors:

It is quite attractive from the outside and comes equipped with some styling elements, which further add to its appearance. The rear end has a chrome garnished tail gate with company's insignia engraved on it. This is surrounded by a luminous taillight cluster, which also includes a turn indicator. Then, there is a large windscreen, and a spoiler of which, the latter is integrated with a third brake light. Meanwhile, its frontage is designed with a triple slat radiator grille that gets neat chrome plating. The large headlight cluster is powered by halogen lamps and turn indicators. The bumper has a couple of fog lamps and an airdam fitted to it. And, the windscreen with a pair of wipers gives its front facade a complete look. On the other hand, its sides section has a set of 15 inch steel wheels adorned with fill wheel caps. These rims are covered with 185/65 R15 sized tubeless tyres. Apart from these, a few more elements in this profile include outside rear view mirrors with side turn indicators, door handles, B as well as C pillars.

Interiors:

The addition of new premium covers to its seats certainly brings a refreshing look to its interiors. The seats in both second and third rows can be folded to make additional space for luggage. There is metallic finish given on its steering wheel, parking brake tip and door handles, which will only make the cabin more appealing. The dashboard is fitted with an instrument cluster, air vents, and a center console as well. It has an accessory socket in the second row using which, mobile phones can charged whenever required. There are two sun visors available at front, while there are roof mounted AC vents in second row. In addition to all these, the cabin is packed with a luggage box, assist grips, co-passenger seat back pocket, armrest and a few others.

Engine and Performance:

The automaker has fitted a 1.4-litre, VVT petrol power plant under its bonnet, which also comes with a CNG fuel kit. It has a displacement capacity of 1373cc and is based on a DOHC valve configuration. This mill has 4-cylinders that are further integrated with sixteen valves. The peak power developed in petrol mode is 91.1bhp along with torque of 130Nm. Whereas in the CNG mode, it churns out 82bhp in combination with 110Nm torque output. This motor is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission gear box. In terms of mileage, it returns about 17.5 Kmpl on the highways. Meanwhile in the CNG mode, the maximum fuel economy comes to nearly 22.8 Kmpl.

Braking and Handling:

This vehicle is bestowed with a highly reliable braking system that comprise of ventilated disc brakes at front and drum brakes on the rear ones. It is also accompanied by anti lock braking system for an improved performance. A rack and pinion based electric power assisted steering system is also offered. This gives precise response and supports a minimum turning radius of 5.2 meters. Talking about suspension system, its front axle gets a McPherson strut and the rear axle is assembled with a torsion beam.

Comfort Features:

It is packed with several practical aspects that ensures great passenger comfort. There are power windows available, whose switches are mounted on door armrests. A powerful air conditioning unit is installed along with roof mounted air vents in the second row. It is bestowed with a 2-DIN audio system that supports Bluetooth connectivity and even has four high quality speakers. The indicators on instrument panel like key-on reminder, distance to empty, fuel consumption and a few others keep the driver alert. The outside mirrors are both electrically foldable and adjustable too. Besides these, it includes a tachometer, keyless entry, height adjustable front seat belts, and an MP3 player as well.

Safety Features:

Some significant safety aspects are loaded in this variant that protects its passengers to a great extent. This list comprises of a door ajar notification, central door locking, airbags for driver and co-passenger, security alarm as well as a high mounted third stop lamp. Aside from all these, it also comes with anti lock braking system, seat belts with pretensioner and force limiters at front, day and night inside rear view mirror, driver seat belt reminder with buzzer, rear parking sensors and crumple zones too, which adds to the security quotient.

Pros:

1. Impressive mileage in the CNG mode.

2. Roomy cabin with ample space for luggage.

Cons:

1. External design could have been more striking.

2. A few more styling features can be added.