2019 Suzuki Ertiga: Things that caught our attention

Ever since its inception five years ago, Suzuki Ertiga has been one of the best-selling models by the Japanese automaker in the Philippines. However, the seven-seater compact MPV was due for a change in order to cope up with the ever evolving automobile industry. Addressing just that, Suzuki recently introduced the revisited Ertiga in the country.

The all-new MPV came out with plenty of familiar features packed inside of a brand-new package. It’s not only sleeker but also more powerful than before. And yes, more comfortable as well. While there has been already a lot said about the new Ertiga, we have compiled the best things about the MPV that have impressed us to the core. Keep reading to know more.

Attractive appearance

The first thing that captures one’s attention is Ertiga’s styling. The automaker has done remarkably well in terms of restyling the Ertiga and providing it with a unique character. Moreover, unlike the previous-gen model, the updated Ertiga doesn't hold any resemblance to the Swift. Changes on the new Ertiga include sleeker projector headlights, bolder front grille,

and a redesigned front bumper that makes it completely different from the previously-offered model. Not to forget, the 15-inch alloys starting from the GL to the GLX variants are also a new addition. The L-shaped taillights give the rear section an amiable look. While looks are subjective, we believe that the new Suzuki Ertiga looks great on the road with a fairly unique and individualistic presence which was something that we missed on the first-gen of the MPV.

Immaculate interior

It's not just the exterior that has undergone some hammering as the automaker has also paid close attention to Ertiga's interior as well. You can’t ignore the wood trim that goes perfectly with the beige color tone along with the new flowing dashboard design. There is a new flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel which is designed to offer utmost comfort to the driver.

Then there is a huge 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with features like smartphone Mirrorlink, navigation, Bluetooth, USB, AUX and AM/FM radio, albeit only on the GLX model. The touchscreen also doubles as a display for the reverse camera. As a whole, you get a satisfying feel while being inside of the 2019 Suzuki Ertiga, which we suppose is good enough for a family vehicle.

Delightful dimensions

While keeping the wheelbase at 2740 mm same as before, Suzuki has somehow managed to make the new Ertiga taller, wider, and longer. The MPV now measures 5 mm taller at 1690mm, 40 mm wider at 1735mm, and 130 mm longer at 4395mm. What this suggests is that there is substantial space inside the cabin, which when translated into figures comes out to be 70 mm more legroom in the last row and 90 mm additional storage/luggage space.

The luggage area has also been enhanced or you can say intelligently re-designed to accommodate 199-litre worth of cargo. Earlier, this figure was 113-litre. Thanks to the under-floor storage space, we can also keep small items or even a tall suitcase, bag, or stand. Once you fold down the seats, the space you get is nothing less than a blessing.

Powerful powertrain

The 2019 Suzuki Ertiga specs still show the same four-cylinder 1.5-litre K15B engine as before but with more horsepower and torque. The improved engine now makes a maximum power of 103 PS and a peak torque of 138 Nm, both of which are 11 PS and 8 Nm more than the previous version, respectively.

On the transmission front, it gets either a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual gearbox that transfers power to the front wheels of the car. Additionally, it is also a bit livelier and rev-friendly, especially on the highways. The gearbox does a fairly good job by returning a fuel economy of around 16 kmpl on the highway. Expect it to consume a litre of fuel for every 10-km in the city.

Relaxed ride

Compared to the first-gen Ertiga, the new model offers an improved ride quality courtesy of the new Heartect platform, which forms the basis for the new Ertiga along with other Suzuki models like Dzire and Swift. The automaker also claims it to be lighter yet rigid and well-planted on roads. With the handling also improved, you won’t be rolling in the car anymore when the driver pushes hard in the corners.

Competitive cost

While the 2019 Suzuki Ertiga price for the base variant is Php 728,000, its top-of-the-line model can be had for Php 978,000.

With the launch of new Ertiga, what's certain is that the market is going to get heated up. Think tanks in the rival camps including Toyota (Avanza), Mitsubishi (Xpander), and Honda (Mobilio) will need to re-work on their strategies to keep a foothold.

Also Read:- Suzuki Ertiga - Hits and misses