Maruti Ertiga LXi: A ‘Technically’ 7-Seater With A No-Nonsense Approach To Tackling The MPV Segment Maruti Ertiga LXi is the base model of one of India’s best-selling MPVs.
Purpose-built for value-conscious families and fleet owners, the Ertiga LXi efficiently delivers the core Ertiga values of space, dependability, and low operating costs without the added chaff of more expensive trims.
It’s not fancy with all the bells and whistles but if you’re looking for a practical and no-fuss seven-seater, the Ertiga LXi offers great value. Let us delve into the key takeaways, as well as its pros and cons.
Simple and Functional Design
On the exterior, the Ertiga LXi looks identical in terms of body structure and design language with that of the elder derivative.
Its front fascia, with the smart looking grille, clear lens headlamps and clean rear profile with wraparound tail lamps, all seem impressive.
The LXi loses out on alloy wheels, chrome garnish and fog lamps which are available on the higher trims.
But that unassuming and tidy appearance is what appeals to buyers who value function over glitz.
The very large glazing provides excellent vision for the driver and more space at passengers’ level.
Large Cutty For Chores A big and versatile cabin.
Space and utility take precedence in the cabin of the Ertiga LXi. All-black or bi-tone fabric seats are supportive and durable for everyday driving.
With7-seater configuration, there is good amount of space in the first two rows with comfortable enough space for city jaunts
and short highway drudging but because of the narrower width, rows 2 and 3 have slightly compromised seating.
On longer trips, the third row is passable as a seat for kids or smaller adults.
The interior is bare bones with no touchscreen infotainment system or automatic climate control, although it does come equipped with manual AC, power steering,
front power windows and tilt-adjustable steering. When not in use, third-row seats can be folded to boost boot space.
Dependable Engine and Fuel Saver
The Ertiga LXi gets the same 1.5-litre K15C Smart Hybrid petrol engine as in other models, which makes about 103 bhp and 137 Nm of peak torque.
It is mated to a slick 5-speed manual transmission. The engine is silky smooth, and provides enough oomph for city riding or some sprightly blasts down the motorway.
Being a large vehicle, the Ertiga LXi isn’t breaking a sweat in terms of fuel efficiency thanks to the hybrid tech that helps in start-stop situations.
For the eco-warriors, Maruti also gives the option of a factory-fitted CNG kit on higher trims, for those who love small running costs.
Pros:
Real 7 seater at an affordable price
Roomy passenger cabin with fold-down rear seats
A fuel efficient petrol engine with Smart Hybrid tech
Easy to maintain and with large network of services
Functional and durable for family and commercial use
Cons:
Not so contemporary features i.e. no touched screen, rear power windows, no alloys
LXi trim lacks an automatic transmission
Third row will be comfortable for children or smaller adults
Bland interior with no premium touch
Maruti Ertiga Lxi : Conclusion
The Maruti Ertiga LXi makes sense for those who want an affordable 7-seater that does its job well.
It leaves the premium touches and fancy infotainment to others, but it gets the important things right: space, efficiency, and reliability.
Great for large families or for in fleet purposes, the Ertiga LXi has been the old warhorse on Indian roads.