The demand for eco-friendly and economical vehicles has been growing rapidly across global markets, particularly in regions where fuel prices continue to rise and urban air quality is becoming a serious concern. In India, where the automobile industry is one of the largest in the world, the need for sustainable yet affordable mobility solutions is stronger than ever. This is where the Maruti Ertiga CNG emerges as a highly practical choice.
As a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the Ertiga has already carved a niche for itself as a spacious, family-friendly, and budget-conscious car. The introduction of the CNG variant adds another layer of value by offering lower running costs and reduced emissions, all while maintaining the comfort and practicality that Ertiga is known for.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Maruti Ertiga CNG, exploring its design, performance, comfort, safety, technology, and market appeal, while understanding why it is considered one of the most sensible family cars in India.
The Rise of CNG Vehicles in India
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles have gained immense popularity in India for two key reasons: affordability and eco-friendliness. Compared to petrol and diesel, CNG is significantly cheaper and burns cleaner, producing fewer harmful emissions. This makes it a great choice for customers who prioritize cost savings without compromising on performance.
Maruti Suzuki, being the market leader in India, has been proactive in expanding its CNG lineup, ensuring that customers from different segments have access to this technology. The Ertiga CNG fits perfectly into this strategy, as it combines the spaciousness of an MPV with the efficiency of CNG.
Exterior Design: Modern Yet Practical
The Maruti Ertiga CNG retains the same design language as its petrol counterpart. It looks modern, refined, and practical—exactly what customers expect from a family MPV.
- Front profile: The wide chrome grille, stylish projector headlamps, and sleek bumper design lend it a premium appeal.
- Side view: The long body with sculpted lines and alloy wheels gives it a stretched yet balanced look.
- Rear profile: LED tail lamps with a distinctive design and chrome highlights add to its character.
The Ertiga CNG does not try to be flashy; instead, it carries a subtle and classy appearance that works well for both urban families and professional use, such as cab aggregators and corporate fleets.
Spacious and Comfortable Interior
The main highlight of the Ertiga CNG is its interior space and comfort. Designed as a true 7-seater MPV, it provides ample room for passengers across all three rows.
- Seating: The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long journeys comfortable for families.
- Cabin layout: Dual-tone interiors with wooden accents give the cabin a premium touch.
- Convenience: Multiple storage spaces, cup holders, and charging ports enhance usability.
- Air conditioning: Rear AC vents ensure that passengers in the second and third rows remain comfortable.
Despite the addition of the CNG tank in the boot, the Ertiga still offers a decent luggage area, which makes it practical for family trips.
Technology and Features
Maruti has equipped the Ertiga CNG with a host of features to meet the expectations of modern customers.
- Infotainment system: A 7-inch SmartPlay touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay keeps passengers connected and entertained.
- Steering-mounted controls: Provide easy access to audio and calls without distraction.
- Keyless entry and push-button start: Add convenience to daily use.
- Automatic climate control: Maintains the ideal cabin temperature.
- Driver information display: Offers data such as fuel economy, range, and trip details.
While the Ertiga CNG is positioned as a budget-friendly MPV, it still manages to provide a balance of comfort and technology that enhances overall ownership.
Engine and Performance
The Maruti Ertiga CNG is powered by a 1.5-liter K15C petrol engine that has been tuned to run on both petrol and CNG.
- Performance: While running on CNG, the engine delivers slightly reduced power compared to petrol, but it is still adequate for city driving and highway cruising.
- Transmission: A 5-speed manual gearbox ensures smooth shifts and good control.
- Fuel efficiency: This is the biggest advantage. The Ertiga CNG delivers an impressive mileage of over 26 km/kg of CNG, making it one of the most economical MPVs in the country.
- Dual fuel flexibility: Owners can switch between petrol and CNG, providing flexibility on long trips where CNG filling stations may not be easily available.
This combination of efficiency and practicality makes the Ertiga CNG a smart choice for daily commuting as well as family travel.
Ride and Handling
Despite being an MPV, the Ertiga CNG offers a smooth and stable driving experience.
- Suspension: Tuned for comfort, it absorbs potholes and bumps effectively, making it suitable for Indian roads.
- Steering: Light and responsive, which is useful in city traffic and tight parking spaces.
- Highway stability: The car maintains good balance at higher speeds, ensuring safe long-distance travel.
For families and commercial users alike, the balance of comfort and drivability adds to the appeal of the Ertiga CNG.
Safety Features
Safety is a key consideration for any family car, and Maruti has provided essential safety features in the Ertiga CNG.
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Rear parking sensors and camera
- High-strength body structure for impact absorption
Though it may not have the most advanced features like higher-end SUVs, the Ertiga CNG ensures basic safety and reliability, which is sufficient for its segment.
Market Positioning and Competitors
The Ertiga CNG occupies a unique position in the Indian automobile market. It is one of the few 7-seater MPVs available with a factory-fitted CNG option. Its primary competitors include models like the Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens, but most of them do not offer CNG variants, which gives the Ertiga a strong competitive edge.
Additionally, with its affordable price range, low running costs, and Maruti’s extensive service network, the Ertiga CNG is especially attractive to large families and fleet operators.
Customer Appeal
The Maruti Ertiga CNG caters to several customer groups:
- Families: Spacious cabin, seating for seven, and fuel efficiency make it ideal for large households.
- Commercial operators: Cab services and corporate fleets benefit from the low running costs and reliability.
- Budget-conscious buyers: The CNG option makes ownership economical without sacrificing comfort.
- Eco-friendly drivers: Reduced emissions appeal to environmentally aware customers.
This wide appeal ensures that the Ertiga CNG continues to be one of the strongest performers in its category.
Why the Ertiga CNG Makes Sense
In a time when fuel costs are soaring and sustainability is becoming a priority, the Ertiga CNG delivers exactly what Indian customers need:
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Affordable running costs
- Spacious and practical design
- Reliable Maruti Suzuki service and maintenance
- Dual fuel flexibility for convenience
By combining these strengths, the Ertiga CNG proves to be one of the most rational and dependable MPVs in the Indian market.
Conclusion
The Maruti Ertiga CNG is more than just an eco-friendly variant of an already successful MPV. It represents a thoughtful response to the growing demand for affordable, efficient, and sustainable vehicles.
With its spacious interiors, modern features, reliable performance, and unbeatable fuel economy, the Ertiga CNG provides the perfect balance of practicality and comfort. It not only appeals to large families but also to commercial operators looking for a vehicle that offers long-term value.
In many ways, the Ertiga CNG stands as a symbol of how the Indian automobile industry is adapting to the future of mobility—offering eco-friendly solutions without pricing itself out of reach for the common buyer. For anyone seeking a sensible, reliable, and efficient 7-seater, the Maruti Ertiga CNG is one of the smartest choices available today.