Surprising fact: after the September GST change the range fell up to Rs. 46,400, placing the new prices between Rs. 8.80–12.94 lakh ex-showroom — a shift that changes value math for many families.
I set the stage for a hands-on, practical review of the maruti suzuki ertiga and why it still matters as a 7-seat family car in India. I cover the 1.5L petrol (102 bhp) with manual and automatic options, plus the factory CNG that boosts efficiency for budget-focused owners.
What I focus on: real-world mileage, daily drivability with a full load, key comforts such as the 7-inch Smartplay Pro and Suzuki Connect, and the updated safety kit with six airbags standard since July 16, 2025.
My approach blends measured numbers, road impressions, and ownership insights to judge value. Read on for a clear, variant-by-variant guide and my final recommendation for the right 2025 maruti buyer.
Key Takeaways
- I outline the petrol and CNG powertrains and how they suit family use.
- Prices after GST make certain variants stronger value propositions.
- Comfort and tech (Smartplay Pro, Suzuki Connect) boost daily practicality.
- Six airbags standard improve the safety case for family buyers.
- My verdict balances measured figures with real-world ownership notes.
Quick take: Is the Maruti Ertiga 2025 still India’s best-value 7-seater family car?
For buyers focused on practicality, the maruti ertiga still checks more boxes than it misses. I find it a solid pick when you want a true seven-seater with low running costs and easy daily usability.
The cabin offers large, well-cushioned seats and high visibility. Steering is light and the ride stays flat on highways. That combination makes long school runs and intercity trips comfortable for most families.
- Value verdict: The maruti suzuki ertiga remains a compelling family car for budget-minded buyers, balancing performance and fuel efficiency.
- Drivability: Choose the 5MT for city use or the 6AT for mixed driving; the engine and gearbox match most daily needs.
- CNG appeal: Claimed 26.11 km/kg, my observed ~22.4 km/kg makes the CNG variant attractive for high-mileage users.
- Trade-offs: Limited boot space with all seats up and mixed interior plastics; note the six-airbag update improves the safety side.
Bottom line: If you need a practical, affordable seater car that prioritizes comfort and mileage over premium finish, the maruti ertiga is still my recommendation. Cardekho experts and I both see its strengths for middle-class families, especially at the revised starting price of Rs. 8.80 lakh.
Design and road presence: Subtle MPV styling with practical touches
Design here serves function first: clean surfaces, measured proportions, and details that make daily life easier. I find the front wears a chrome-accented grille that bisects simple headlamps. A sculpted bumper with black inserts adds just enough character without calling attention.
Front and side details
The profile shows strong shoulder creases and 15-inch alloys that balance stance and ride comfort. Large glass areas lift the cabin feel and improve sightlines for all three rows of seats. Compact overhangs and wide mirrors help with parking and traffic judgment.
Rear profile and practicality
The rear is upright, with vertically stacked tail lamps and an angular bumper that simplifies loading. The steel spare (185/65 R15) sits underfloor, which preserves interior space compared with in-cabin spares.
- The subtle look keeps repair costs predictable for insurance-conscious owners.
- Proportions and beltline create a confident road presence without excess flair.
Cabin experience: Airy interiors, layered dashboard, real-world usability
Step inside and the cabin’s airy feel is the first thing that stands out to me. The full-width vent layout and faux-wood trim give the dash a layered look. Light beige surfaces and large side windows make the space feel open and bright.
The twin-dial cluster has clear speedo and tacho readouts with a central info display that keeps essential data easy to scan while driving. Fit and finish use mixed plastics, but the overall assembly is tidy and acceptable for the price.
Fit, finish, and materials
The beige theme lifts perceived quality and reduces cabin heat. Leather-wrapped tilt steering feels good in hand and includes audio and cruise buttons. The automatic variant adds paddle shifters for a smoother highway experience.
Storage and everyday convenience
I find the storage practical. Door bottle holders are large and there are sensible cubbies for phones and masks. USB/AUX ports sit up front and 12V sockets are available across all three rows.
- Comfort: seats are supportive for daily school runs and weekend trips.
- Features: easy-to-reach controls and a logical layout reduce the learning curve.
- Third row benefits from generous side glass, which helps reduce claustrophobia.
| Item | What I found | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | Full-width vent, faux wood, light colors | Feels wider and brighter; improves perceived quality |
| Instruments | Twin-dial cluster with central info display | Easy to read without distraction |
| Controls & sockets | Leather steering, audio/cruise, paddles (AT); USB/AUX; 12V across rows | Comfort and device power for everyone on long drives |
| Storage | Large bottle holders, phone slots, cubbies | Keeps a family car organized during daily use |
My take: This cabin trades luxury for practical comfort. For a family car focused on utility, it succeeds—offering airy space, useful storage, and user-friendly features that add up to low-stress ownership.
Seating comfort and space: first, second, and third rows assessed
Seating comfort matters most in family cars, so I checked posture, adjustability, and space across all three rows.
First and second-row comfort
Front seats are large with adjustable headrests and supportive cushioning. The driver’s seat offers height, recline, and slide adjustments that help tall and short drivers find a natural position.
Second row slides and reclines, so you can prioritise knee room or free up space for the back. The roof-mounted AC with multiple vents keeps air flowing to the middle and rear rows on hot days.
Third-row reality
The third row gives adequate comfort for average-sized adults for short to medium trips. The seats recline, which improves posture, but shoulder room is limited for two larger adults on long journeys.
Access is slightly constrained by a narrow pathway and the tumble mechanism. Sliding the second row forward a notch makes the last row far more livable without hurting second-row comfort too much.
- I rate front-row comfort highly for posture and adjustability.
- Second-row flexibility lets families balance legroom and cargo needs.
- Third-row best suits kids, teens, or occasional adult use on longer drives.
My takeaway: For a true seven-seater family mover, the maruti ertiga pairs sensible seating with practical trade-offs: decent cushion support and good airflow, but limited boot space with all seats up means the third row stays folded more often in daily life.
Features and tech: Smartplay Pro, Suzuki Connect, and ease-of-use
How tech helps daily life matters more than raw specs. I looked closely at the infotainment, connectivity, and controls to see what actually makes routines easier for families.
Infotainment and connectivity
The 7-inch Smartplay Pro is quick to pair and supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Menus are clear and voice commands work well for calls and navigation. Suzuki Connect adds remote AC activation and Alexa support, which is handy on hot mornings.
Convenience highlights
The single-zone auto AC uses large rotary dials and simple buttons that reduce distraction while driving. The leather-wrapped steering has tilt adjustment plus audio and cruise controls. AT variants get paddle shifters that ease long highway stints.
- I found the rear camera and sensors essential for tight urban parking.
- Audio quality is decent; set EQ and mid-volume for clearer calls in bright daylight.
- Feature levels vary by trim, so choose carefully if you want wireless mirroring or Suzuki Connect.
“This package favours usability over flashy extras, which suits a family-first car.”
Powertrains explained: 1.5L Petrol MT/AT and CNG options
I explain how each engine and gearbox pairing responds with a full load and mixed traffic.
Petrol performance and gearbox choices
The 1.5L petrol engine makes 102 bhp and 136.8 Nm. In town it feels relaxed and rewards smooth inputs.
The 5‑speed manual gives you direct control and slightly better claimed mileage (20.51 kmpl). The 6‑speed torque‑converter automatic is smoother in traffic and rated at 20.3 kmpl.
Paddle shifters on the AT let you hold gears for overtakes or downhill engine braking. I prefer the AT for frequent highway runs and the MT for cost‑conscious city drivers.
CNG drivability and fuel switching
The factory CNG uses the same 1.5L block but is detuned to 87 bhp and 121.5 Nm. Gearing keeps the pace acceptable even with seven aboard.
Switching between petrol and CNG is simple via a dashboard button. I switch to petrol mainly when CNG range runs low rather than for extra power.
- Real returns: Claimed CNG is 26.11 km/kg; I observed ~22.41 km/kg in mixed use with AC.
- Driving style: Both fuel types reward gentle throttle and steady revs for better efficiency.
- Ownership: The NA petrol is simple to maintain and benefits from wide dealer support.
“I found the petrol AT easiest for relaxed long drives; CNG wins on running costs if you do high annual mileage and have good gas access.”
My recommendation: choose the petrol MT if you want lower purchase cost and a hands‑on feel. Pick the AT for traffic comfort and paddles when you need control. Opt for the CNG if you log high kilometres and have reliable CNG stations nearby.
On-road performance: city calm, highway composure
I drove the MPV through city streets and open highways to see how its manners match daily family life.
Ride and handling
City: The suspension soaks up potholes and speed breakers well. Steering is light, which makes tight turns and parking easy.
Highway: The ride stays flat and composed at cruising speeds. You will notice mild vertical motion over big undulations, but it rarely unsettles passengers.
Measured performance snapshots
I ran timed sprints to give context. The petrol does 0–100 km/h in about 13.73 s; the factory CNG posts 15.67 s.
In-gear runs narrow the gap: 30–80 km/h in third takes 11.52 s for petrol and 11.68 s for CNG. The 40–100 km/h fourth-gear test shows 19.51 s (petrol) versus 20.22 s (CNG).
Braking and stability: Brake feel is predictable and straight-line stability is good for an MPV footprint. Quick lane changes feel less sharp than a compact car, so plan overtakes.
“The engine’s linear delivery suits relaxed family trips; use the AT’s manual mode or a downshift in the MT for confident overtakes.”
- NVH: quiet in town, more engine note at speed; road thuds come through on rough patches.
- Maintain tyre pressures and periodic alignment to keep the composed ride on long runs.
- Performance enthusiasts should expect comfort and space over outright pace.
| Aspect | Petrol | CNG |
|---|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h | 13.73 s | 15.67 s |
| 30–80 km/h (3rd) | 11.52 s | 11.68 s |
| 40–100 km/h (4th) | 19.51 s | 20.22 s |
| Driving character | Linear power, calm cruiser | Economical, slightly slower response |
Efficiency and mileage: claimed vs user-reported economy
Real-world returns matter more than ARAI numbers. I compared the lab claims with what owners and I actually see in mixed city-highway use with the AC on.
Petrol MT/AT
Petrol figures in practice
ARAI lists 20.51 kmpl (MT) and 20.3 kmpl (AT). Users report about 18.83 kmpl for the MT and ~17.5 kmpl for the AT in metro driving.
I found the AT can approach the MT when driven smoothly, thanks to taller gearing and a relaxed torque converter tune.
CNG realities
CNG: claimed vs lived returns
The factory CNG claims 26.11 km/kg but user-observed returns sit around 22.4–22.75 km/kg. The ertiga cng saves running cost per km but reduces usable boot space and raises the luggage loading height.
Performance to 100 km/h is slower, yet in-gear overtakes feel comparable if you plan your inputs.
“CNG wins on running cost for high-mileage families; petrol wins on flexibility and boot space.”
| Fuel type | Claimed | Observed (mixed use) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol MT | 20.51 kmpl | ~18.8 kmpl |
| Petrol AT | 20.3 kmpl | ~17.5 kmpl |
| CNG | 26.11 km/kg | ~22.4–22.75 km/kg |
- To maximise fuel efficiency, use gentle throttle, correct tyre pressures, timely servicing, and cruise control on steady highways.
- Plan CNG routes to avoid range stress; the fuel switch button makes transitions seamless on long runs.
- Choose petrol if you need flexible boot space often or lack reliable gas stations on your routes.
My summary: For a family car focused on low running cost, the maruti suzuki ertiga’s efficiency remains a core strength—CNG for high-mileage users, petrol for everyday flexibility.
Safety package vs rating: where the Ertiga stands today
I tested braking, visibility aids, and child‑seat fitment to see what the updated safety package delivers in traffic.
What the car now gets: as of July 16, six airbags are standard across all trims, plus ABS with EBD, ESP, hill‑hold, rear sensors and camera, ISOFIX anchors, front seatbelt height adjusters, high‑speed alert, and speed‑sensitive auto door locks.
How assist systems help
ESP and hill‑hold improve control on wet roads and slopes. ABS with EBD sharpens brake balance during panic stops. These features reduce human error risk when traffic is unpredictable.
Crash rating context and practical advice
Public crash ratings vary by protocol and year. Equipment upgrades matter, but structure and driving habits do too.
- Use ISOFIX for child seats and prefer the second row for young kids.
- I agree with cardekho experts that gear and airbags raise protection, but defensive driving is essential.
- Consider accessories like TPMS, dash cams, and better tires to boost daily safety.
“The package makes the car safer for families; responsible use is still the final safety layer.”
Variants, prices, and what I recommend
Choosing the right variant starts with clear price context and a simple use-case match. After the GST revision, the ex-showroom price band runs from Rs. 8.80–12.94 lakh, which changes the purchase math for many buyers as of aug 2025.
Ex-showroom price band after GST revision: Rs. 8.80-12.94 lakh
The updated price maruti list places the LXi petrol MT at Rs. 8.80 lakh and the ZXi Plus AT at Rs. 12.94 lakh. Earlier the starting tag sat near 9.12 lakh, so the GST change is meaningful for value-focused buyers.
Variant guide: LXi, VXi, ZXi, ZXi Plus; AT and CNG picks for aug 2025
LXi (base model) is the practical ertiga base for buyers on a tight budget. You can add essentials after delivery to keep initial cost down.
VXi is a sensible baseline — it adds comfort and convenience that matter for family use. VXi CNG at Rs. 10.76 lakh is my pick for high-mileage city commuters who can access gas stations regularly.
ZXi is the sweet spot. With auto AC and the 7-inch touchscreen on higher trims, it balances features and price maruti buyers accept. ZXi petrol MT at Rs. 10.92 lakh offers good mileage and a reliable engine‑gearbox pairing.
ZXi Plus / ertiga top model suits those who want maximal convenience and the ertiga top model comforts. ZXi Plus AT is the choice for families that prefer an automatic and paddles for overtakes on highways.
| Variant | Fuel / Gearbox | Ex-showroom (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| LXi | Petrol MT | 8.80 lakh |
| VXi | Petrol MT / CNG | 9.85 / 10.76 lakh |
| ZXi | Petrol MT / AT / CNG | 10.92 / 12.27 / 11.83 lakh |
| ZXi Plus (ertiga top) | Petrol MT / AT | 11.59 / 12.94 lakh |
My short recommendations: pick LXi if you must save up front; choose VXi for balanced kit; opt for ZXi as the value sweet spot; move to ZXi Plus AT only if you want the richest feature set. For fuel choice, VXi CNG fits heavy-city mileage while ZXi CNG is for buyers who want more equipment without overspending.
“Cardekho experts and I agree: the GST-era ex-showroom price band makes the mid trims far more appealing for most families.”
maruti ertiga 2025 in the market: rivals and who should buy it
How the Ertiga stacks up matters for real buyers. I compare rival models, discuss delivery and ownership, and map who benefits most from each variant.
Alternatives to consider
The Toyota Rumion (avg ex-showroom price Rs. 10.44 lakh) is a badge‑shared cousin worth test driving if dealer offers differ.
Kia Carens (Rs. 10.99 lakh) brings richer kit and more powertrain choice, but higher price maruti dynamics keep the Ertiga easier for the middle class to buy.
XL6 (Rs. 11.52 lakh) is the premium sibling with captain seats and plush feel if you want a top model upgrade.
Renault Triber (Rs. 5.76 lakh) is a budget seater car for city use and light cargo needs.
Who should buy which variant
- Middle‑class families: pick the ZXi petrol AT for mixed fuel use and comfort.
- High daily running: choose the Ertiga CNG for lower running cost and better mileage.
- Ride‑share or intercity: favor mid trims for predictable delivery, wide service reach, and low cost ownership.
| Rival | Avg ex-showroom | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Rumion | Rs. 10.44 lakh | Value + dealer trust |
| Kia Carens | Rs. 10.99 lakh | Feature-rich buyers |
| Maruti XL6 | Rs. 11.52 lakh | Premium seven-seater |
| Renault Triber | Rs. 5.76 lakh | Budget city seater |
“In expected 2025 market conditions, the Ertiga’s blend of price, efficiency, and variant breadth still makes it the mainstream family car choice.”
Conclusion
Summing up my tests and ownership notes, the revised model still feels like a practical daily companion. I find the maruti suzuki ertiga keeps delivering space, efficiency, and easy usability for Indian families as of aug 2025.
The biggest gains are clear: six airbags standard since July and a more attractive price band after the GST change. These two moves raise value and safety without adding complexity.
I stand by the petrol vs CNG framework and my gearbox advice: choose according to routes and load. Ride and handling stay comfort-first, which suits an everyday family car.
Features favour usability over flash — Smartplay Pro, Suzuki Connect, and sensible AC and charging fit-outs make daily life easier.
I recommend a back-to-back test drive, check third-row fit and boot needs, and pick the variant that matches your kilometres and budget. For most buyers in the 2025 maruti market, the maruti ertiga remains a dependable choice.
FAQ
Q: Is the 2025 seven-seater still the best-value family car?
A: I believe it remains one of the strongest value propositions. The combination of practical packaging, multiple seating rows, and competitive pricing around the lakh band makes it hard to beat for families who need space without a luxury price tag.
Q: What engine and transmission options are available?
A: The line-up includes a 1.5L petrol with a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. There’s also a factory-fitted CNG option for buyers focused on lower running costs. I recommend the automatic for smooth daily commuting and the CNG if fuel savings are a priority.
Q: How is the third-row space and who can sit there comfortably?
A: The third row suits children and shorter adults best. Taller passengers will find legroom and seat support limited on long trips. Access is reasonable thanks to sliding second-row seats, but expect tighter headroom and firmer cushioning compared with the front rows.
Q: What real-world fuel efficiency can I expect?
A: In my experience, the petrol manual returns around 20–21 kmpl under mixed use. The automatic is close but slightly lower. The CNG claims about 26 km/kg but practical figures tend to be nearer 22–23 km/kg depending on load and driving style.
Q: Does the cabin feel premium and well-built?
A: The cabin is practical rather than premium. I find the beige theme and faux-wood trim offer a pleasant look, while mixed plastics keep costs down. Fit and finish are acceptable for the segment, with useful storage and durable surfaces for family use.
Q: What are the key convenience and tech features?
A: It includes a 7-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring, Suzuki Connect telematics, single-zone automatic AC, cruise control, and multiple power sockets across rows. These features make daily life easier for families and long drives.
Q: How does it behave on the road — city and highway?
A: It’s composed on highways with a flat ride and steady high-speed manners. In the city, steering is light and easy for parking, though you’ll notice some vertical motion over uneven surfaces. Overall, it’s tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling.
Q: What safety equipment is offered and is it sufficient?
A: The safety kit includes six airbags on higher trims, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, and ISOFIX anchors. These items cover family needs well, though crash-test ratings should be checked when available to complete the picture.
Q: Which variant should buyers choose — base, mid, or top?
A: For balanced value, I usually recommend the mid ZXi or ZXi Plus for the best mix of features and safety. Choose the base for strict budgets, and the top model if you want every comfort and tech item — especially the six-airbag safety pack and premium infotainment.
Q: How much boot space can I expect with all seats up?
A: With the third row in use, boot space is tight but workable for small bags. Folding the third row flat gives significantly more cargo room, suitable for weekend trips or moving larger items. Underfloor storage for the spare is a practical touch.
Q: Are running costs and maintenance affordable for middle-class families?
A: Yes. Fuel-efficient engines, available CNG, and a widespread service network keep running costs reasonable. Insurance, periodic servicing, and parts costs are competitive within the segment, making ownership manageable for middle-income buyers.
Q: How does it compare to rivals like the Rumion, Kia Carens, and XL6?
A: It competes strongly on price, practicality, and running costs. Competitors may offer more premium interiors or different styling, but few match the combination of low ownership costs and proven reliability. I suggest a test drive to compare ride comfort and feature sets directly.
Q: Is the CNG option worth it for family buyers?
A: If you cover high monthly distances, the CNG choice delivers clear fuel-cost savings. Keep in mind the slightly reduced boot space and marginally different driving feel. For city-heavy use and tight budgets, it’s a sensible pick.
Q: What delivery timelines and on-road prices should buyers expect?
A: Delivery times vary by city and demand; expect typical waiting periods that fluctuate with promotions and inventory. Ex-showroom prices sit in an affordable band after recent tax changes, but final on-road costs depend on state taxes, insurance, and accessories.