2019 Maruti Suzuki Ertiga review, road test

This second-generation Ertiga is based on the same Heartect architecture as the new Swift, the Baleno, Dzire, Ignis and the new WagonR. Despite being lighter in weight, its structure is stronger than before to meet the tougher crash norms that come into effect this October. It also boasts better torsional rigidity, which has a positive impact on refinement and dynamics. And even though this car has grown significantly larger than its predecessor (by 130mm in length, 40mm in width, and 5mm in height), the overall kerb weight has gone down by 20kg across variants. At 2,740mm, its wheelbase remains identical to the older car, while the front and rear track have increased by 30mm.

While the outgoing car appeared like an elongated Swift with a rather bland, van-like side-profile, the new one looks far more handsome and desirable. Its headlamps bear an uncanny resemblance to the Toyota Innova’s, but in spite of that, the Ertiga has a distinct identity of its own. The chrome-studded grille looks tasteful and makes a great first impression, while the bonnet is more sculpted and has gained some muscle with sharper lines. The side profile too boasts a more prominent waistline but the wheel arches aren’t as pronounced as before and the 15-inch multi-spoke wheels look a bit ordinary. Its side profile also features a design element that’s now common on several modern Marutis, where the window line merges with the rear windscreen, resulting in a floating roof-like impression. The rear of the Ertiga is rather interesting, with ‘L-shaped’ tail-lamps reminiscent of the Volvo XC60. And the overall design of the concave tailgate, the chrome applique and the horizontal tail-lamp sections, appear identical to that of the Ciaz.