Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG Variant Expected

Maruti Suzuki has plans to introduce its CNG strategy to the Ertiga MPV model according to recent reports. At present Maruti Suzuki provides CNG variants of several models including Alto and SX4. In a country where mileage takes prime importance addition of a CNG variant to the already successful Ertiga lineup is sure to prove successful.

Ertiga was launched just about an year back in April 2012 and is currently provided with a 1.4 liter 4 cylinder petrol unit and a 1.3 liter 4 cylinder diesel unit. While the Ertiga faces competition from the likes of Renault Duster and Mahindra Quanto, its relatively low starting price of INR 5.89 lakhs has meant Maruti has been selling a healthy 5000 to 6000 units every month. Ertiga CNG model could add further 1000 to 1500 units to that figure, says Autocar India.

The introduction of Ertiga CNG will help the automaker stand its ground once new competing models emerge in the market such as Ford EcoSport and Mahindra's S101 compact SUV. Since Ertiga would be the only MPV with CNG option it will certainly have a distinct advantage over its rivals.