Maruti Suzuki is taking a shift from mainstream small car segment to a more unconventional compact crossover. Though the Indian auto giant has few models in its sports-ute lineup like the Gypsy and the Grand Vitara, but the products lack the appeal, that new generation Indian customer desire. Previewed at the 2012 Auto Expo in Delhi, Maruti is carving a way for new compact crossover segment with the launch of its Ertiga compact MPV.
With the official launch scheduled for 12 April, the Indian automaker targets a monthly sale of 4,000-5,000 units of Ertiga. Platformed at Maruti Suzuki facility in Gurgaon, the Ertiga projected cost around Rs. 430 crore for development.
In recent news, the test-drive models of Maruti Ertiga MPV has arrived at major Maruti dealerships across the country. Bookings have also commenced with Ertiga offered in 6 variants – three petrol and three diesel. The entry level LXi comes at Rs 6.5 lacs, while the top of the range ZDi comes in at Rs 9.4 lacs.
According the Chief G. M. of Sales and Marketing, Maruti Suzuki India, Mr. Shashank Srivastava, Maruti Suzuki India will complete its portfolio of cars with the launch of new MPV Ertiga. He also added that the Ertiga MPV will be used as both passenger and commercial purposes. According to data gathered by SIAM (Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers), 65 per cent of the total 326,824 ute-vehicles sold between April 2011 and February 2012, mount up major volume of MUVs including Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova.
At present, Toyota Innova is the market leader of sports-utes priced between Rs. 8.89 lacs (ex-showroom, Delhi) and Rs. 13.58 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). With a compact design, spacious interior, practical features, great fuel economy and superb price range, the Ertiga is a frontrunner amongst Indian compact MPVs.
