Maruti RIII MPV Gets A Name 'Ertiga'

Maruti’s mini-MPV known until now by its codename R III will be named ‘Ertiga’. The concept of R III MPV was first displayed at the Delhi Auto Expo in January 2010. While the company has maintained the hush-hush over it, it is expected to be launched in the mid of 2012. The unveiling of this showstopper is likely to take place at the upcoming 2012 Indian Auto Export.

The Ertiga is designed to meet the needs of big Indian families and will be based Ritz platform. It promises to give tough competition to other players in Indian MPV market, especially the Sumo Grande, Mahindra Xylo, and Toyota Innova. It will be priced within the range of 6 to 9 lakhs.

A 1372cc K14 petrol engine will power it and it will produce 95bhp of max power and 13Kgm of torque. Besides, it is also loaded with 1.3-litre Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT)-equipped diesel engine that will give a power of 89bhp. The wheelbase of this new MPV would be 2740mm, and the length of MPV would be at 4265mm.

The salient features of the car include K14 petrol engine, Automatic driver seat adjustment, Sun roof, two side electric door mirrors, button/ controls on steering, rear armrest with cup holders. It is likely to have parking sensors, remote fuel filler, rear wiper and rear defogger. With all these features, the Eritiga promises to be an ultimate family car.