Maruti Suzuki planning SUV version of Ertiga, the Ertiga Cross

MANILA: Maruti Suzuki is planning to launch an SUV version of the existing MPV Ertiga, named as Ertiga Cross by the end of 2019 or in early 2020. The Indian brand is considering to encash on the popularity of SUVs with a vehicle which is a hit in its own segment. The existing model will witness various cosmetic changes in order to look like a crossover vehicle, suggests the report.

According to the leaked images of the patent circulating online, the standard version of the Ertiga dubbed as Ertiga Cross can be a high-riding version. Not much detail is available as of now but Suzuki is planning a Crossover version of the Ertiga to compete with the market leaders like Honda BR-V, Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Rush.

At the front of the car, there could be new headlamps, bumpers could be revised, and a sporty grill may make its way as well, hence, giving the car a new and bold look. It could get more rugged looks with a faux skid plate installed on the rear bumper and some extra cladding. The leaked patent photo also suggests the presence of roof rails on the Ertiga Cross.

All-wheel drive option may not be there as the competition of the current model is with two-wheel drive cars only. But there is a possibility of adding a diesel powertrain which is already present on the existing MPV. Moreover, the current engine range of Ertiga consists of mild-hybrid gas and mild-hybrid turbo diesel engines.

Inside the car, the seating layout might go unchanged. To boast a sporty look, it might even get an all-black theme colour option like the Ciaz. The power unit could be a 1.5-litre K15 petrol engine with 104.7 PS of maximum power and 138 Nm of peak torque. The patented SHVS system of Suzuki will be there and the transmission options could be a four-speed torque converter automatic and a five-speed manual.