2019 Suzuki Ertiga: First impression

Well, well, it’s good news. Suzuki Philippines has finally launched the much anticipated second-generation Ertiga in the country. Although Suzuki kept us waiting for a really long time, but hey, better late than never, right?

Details about the new 2019 Ertiga were quite obvious as it has been available in other countries much before it was launched in the Philippines. We also did a story regarding what to expect in the upcoming Ertiga. Now, since the car is officially launched, let’s see how did Suzuki meet our expectations. Here’s our first impression.

Design and styling

We have to give it to Suzuki, guys, really. The new 2019 Ertiga is really an upgrade when it comes to the styling and looks. Suzuki has done a commendable job. The front of the MPV is completely brand-new.

The large and nicely put projector headlamps along with the new front grille with numerous horizontal chrome slats really creates a strong road presence. The bumper is also reworked and is now much sportier and aggressive.

The side profile of the second-gen Ertiga is new as well. To keep things busy here, Suzuki has added more character lines at the top and bottom of the doors. Also, the new 15-inch alloy wheels look good with their multi-spoke outfit.

Suzuki has also revamped the rear end of the new MPV. Gone are the small tail lights. They are replaced by relatively large units. They don’t have a unique design as we have seen a similar setup in other vehicles as well, but they do refresh things a bit when compared to the outgoing model. Overall, the new 2019 Suzuki Ertiga is much more modern and mature. Thumbs up!

Interior and features

The interior of the new Ertiga has been changed too. We get to see a beige theme all around. Of course, Suzuki has borrowed a few parts from the Dzire or Swift like the flat-bottom steering wheel, AC knobs, instrument cluster design, etc.

We understand that Suzuki needed to make such decisions to keep the price in check, and we aren’t complaining. We really like the flat and stretched out AC vents at the dashboard. They bring out an elegant yet stylish element in the cabin. To add a bit of premium-ness, Suzuki has used faux wood panels on the dashboard and doors.

The Ertiga has always been a 7-seater MPV. It comes with a generous amount of cabin space for all the occupants. Suzuki has also provided rear AC vents on the ceiling keeping in mind the comfort of rear seat passengers.

We also like the new 10-inch touch panel audio system. It sits in the middle of the dash and supports navigation, radio, Bluetooth and AUX connectivity. These features vary with the variants. However, we would have liked it even more if it supported Android Auto and/or Apple CarPlay.

Engine and transmission

Suzuki is known for its optimally tuned engines- fuel efficient as well as sufficiently powerful. The 2019 Ertiga specs have mentioned a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a power output of 103 PS at 6000 rpm and a peak torque of 138 Nm at 4400 rpm.

These are decent figures which would provide decent fuel efficiency and performance figures. The available transmission options are either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual.

Safety features

The all-new Suzuki Ertiga comes with the usual safety features like dual front airbags which come as standard across the board, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, reverse camera, etc. While these are good safety features, we think that considering the new modern image of this new Ertiga, Suzuki could have done much better in this department.

So, this was our first impression of the new Ertiga. There is no doubt that Suzuki has invested a lot of time and money in the development of the new MPV, and it has done a great job. However, there is still room for improvement. Perhaps, Suzuki would cater to them in the next or facelifted model. But when would that happen? Not any time soon, that’s for sure.

The 2019 Suzuki Ertiga price starts at Php 728,000 for the base model, GA 5MT. It rises all the way up to Php 978,000 for the top-end variant, GLX 4AT. The available colour options are Snow White Pearl, Silky Silver Metallic, Burgundy Red Pearl, Cool Black Metallic, Radiant Red Pearl, Glorious Brown Pearl, and Metallic Magma Gray.

Also Read:- Suzuki Swift Sport Extreme concept unveiled at the Thai Motor Show