The Ertiga was introduced in 2014, way before other 7-seater MPVs came one after the other in the country. It quickly set itself apart by being built on a unibody chassis and having a lower ride height. This simply means that it’s lighter, more fuel efficient, and has a car-like ride, while maintaining the capacity to accommodate more than a sedan could. It’s starting price of just above 600K during the pre-excise tax era certainly made it more desirable than it already is.
Now in its second-generation, the Ertiga retains the core values of what made it successful while adding a few refinements. It’s these key improvements that make the Suzuki Ertiga stand out in the saturated segment of 7-seater MPVs.
Mature Styling
The Ertiga’s new design simply exudes elegance both in and out. The front-face is more tame in that it doesn’t try to be too sporty or sleek, but simply going for a classic upmarket aesthetic. It’s the result of the chrome grille that blends well with the headlights, while other bits on the front bumper are kept black so they can’t steal the show from the main pieces. The lines on the side are chiseled to perfection that ends on a floating roofline which adds to its premium appeal.
At the back, the Ertiga’s new combination tail lamps are modern and sculpted to go along with the body. I appreciate the single-piece of chrome and lack of plastic bits at the rear too, adding to the humble appeal of this MPV.
Inside, the new Ertiga is now available with a black interior across all variants. Not only does it go better with the wooden accent on the dashboard of the GLX trim, it’s easier to clean and maintain too. I also like how the dash is not driver-centric, which gives more access to the front passenger so the driver can focus on the road ahead.
Modern Comforts
Despite the 7-seater capacity, one usually drives solo most of the time. The flexible seating arrangement of the Ertiga plays great into this, able to be configured in a variety of ways depending on what you’ll put at the back. The third row can be folded split 50:50 while the second row allows for a 60:40 split.
There’s also a lot of cubby holes and bottle holders all over the cabin so that everything you and your family needs can be put somewhere, with the GL and GLX having a center armrest for added space for your belongings.
At the center of the dashboard is either an 8-inch (GL) or 10-inch (GLX) touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by USB ports and power outlets on both front and second row. The GLX trim also gets a few more, having ventilated front cupholders, Push Start button, and Automatic Climate control.
Safe Space
Safety is paramount for the Ertiga, having a solid set of safety features standard across the range. This includes dual front airbags, ISOFIX and child seat anchors, child-proof door locks, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, immobiliser, and a more rigid body thanks to Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform that’s lighter, more rigid, and mitigates impact forces by moving them away from the passengers. Move up in the range and you’ll have added perks like shift lock, rear sensors, rear camera and alarm. Overall, these are enough to give the Ertiga a 4-star rating from the ASEAN NCAP.
One thing the Ertiga retained is its venerable engine. The new Suzuki Ertiga still has the tried and tested 1.5L K15B engine that puts out 103 hp and 138 Nm of torque, paired to either a 4-speed auto or a 5-speed manual for the GL and GA variants. The combination is more than enough for a fuel-efficient drive inside the city or for jaunts outside.
The Ertiga gives you the option of a flexible cargo space or be able to take members of your extended family or friends along for a ride. It also won’t disappoint if you’re alone thanks to its perky engine and premium look that won’t be out of place in the most upscale venues. All of this while keeping you protected inside every time you drive it.
With a starting price of P738,000 and topping out at just under a million, there’s a lot going on for the Suzuki Ertiga—its overall package sure speaks volumes for its price point.
