Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.3-Litre Vs 1.5-Litre Diesel Engine Comparison — Which Is Better?

Maruti Suzuki launched their all-new Ertiga MPV in the Indian market recently. The Maruti Ertiga MPV is offered with a brand-new design while also receiving all the latest features and equipment compared to the older-generation model.

Initially, the new Maruti Ertiga MPV was launched with the older tried and tested 1.3-litre diesel engine. However, Maruti updated the Ertiga with their brand new in-house developed 1.5-litre diesel unit a few months back.

Now the Ertiga MPV is offered with both diesel engines, the 1.3-litre DDiS200 and the new 1.5-litre DDiS225. But what's different between the two engines and which is the better option to choose, let's find out.

Engine Debut

The 1.3-litre DDiS200 is Maruti Suzuki's tried and tested diesel unit. The engine was sourced from Fiat and first debuted back in 2007 on the Swift hatchback. However, over the years, the engine has undergone a number of updates and is now available in most Maruti Suzuki models. This includes the Swift, Dzire, Ertiga, Ciaz and Vitara Brezza.

The 1.5-litre DDiS225 is the latest diesel engine from the brand in India. The new diesel engine has been developed in-house by Maruti and was first debuted on the new-generation Ciaz sedan. The Maruti Ertiga was the second model in the brand's lineup to receive the engine. The new engine will also further make its way onto other models in the future.

Engine Specifications

The 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine comes in the form of a 1,248cc diesel unit producing 89bhp and 200Nm of torque. It is mated to a standard five-speed manual gearbox. The engine is available with Maruti's SHVS (smart hybrid) system as well. The Maruti Ertiga with the 1.3-litre unit claims a mileage of 25.47km/l.

The 1.5-litre DDiS225 unit, on the other hand, comes in the form of a 1,498cc turbo-diesel unit and churns out 95bhp and 225Nm of torque. It is mated to a new six-speed manual gearbox and misses out on the brand's SHVS system. The Maruti Ertiga with the 1.5-litre unit claims to return a fuel efficiency of 24.20km/l.

Engine Performance

The 1.3-litre engine has been on offer for a long time and has undergone multiple updates. However compared to the new 1.5-litre engine it does feel a bit outdated. The 1.5-litre diesel offers a much smoother drive and feels more refined. The new engine also offers better NVH levels, translating to a more silent cabin. The new six-speed manual on offer with the 1.5-litre engine further helps enhance the driving characteristics of the new engine.

BS-VI Emissions

Both engines currently are compliant with the BS-IV emission norms. Maruti has announced that they will discontinue the 1.3-litre diesel engine, closer to the date of BS-VI implementation. The 1.5-litre diesel unit on the other hand, will receive an update.

Prices

The 1.3-litre diesel unit is available on all four variants of the Maruti Ertiga, with a starting price of Rs 8.84 lakh while the top-spec variant costs Rs 10.90 lakh. The 1.5-litre diesel is priced at a slight premium with a starting price of Rs 9.86 lakh and the top-spec priced at Rs 11.20 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom (Delhi).

Verdict

The new 1.5-litre diesel engine from Maruti Suzuki is the better choice in the segment. It is available on all trims, apart from the base variant. The new engine offers better refinement and driveability, while also offering a new six-speed manual transmission. With a premium of just Rs 30,000, this engine definitely makes more sense to choose.