Maruti Suzuki has communicated to its dealers to stop taking bookings for the Ertiga LDi, which, priced at Rs 8.84 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), was the cheapest trim in the MPV's diesel range.
The carmaker has started the process of replacing the Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre diesel engine with a new 1.5-litre diesel that's developed in-house. There's already high demand for the second-gen Ertiga in some cities, with waiting periods going up to six months for the mid and top-spec trims, and that's one of the main reasons why Maruti has chosen to axe the LDi and focus on producing more of these variants. This step will also reduce waiting periods.
With the LDi being discontinued, the Ertiga VDi, priced at Rs 9.56 lakh, is now the entry-level variant.
As far as features go, the Ertiga LDi was available with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Isofix child seat mounts, speed-sensitive door locks, rear parking sensors, central locking, projector headlamps, manual air conditioning and 15-inch steel rims. The Ertiga VDi, on the other hand, is fitted with a four-speaker audio system with USB, Aux and Bluetooth connectivity, steering-mounted audio and telephony controls, a centre armrest for the second row, rear AC vents, remote keyless entry and 12V charging ports, to name a few.
Key rivals to the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga include the Mahindra Marazzo and the Renault Lodgy.