Guys, it has been a helluva week. So much so that I was unable to attend the launch of the new Suzuki Ertiga. Which, believe it or not, devastates me. I know you assume us motoring journalists are only in it for the glamour and the fast cars, but if you know me, you will know how much I love a practical car. So it makes sense that I would be so bummed to miss the launch of this seven-seater.
But because I care so much about each and every one of you (debatable maybe), I have still managed to get you all the info you need about the new Suzuki Ertiga.
HOW MUCH SPACE IS THERE?
The new Ertiga, which has had a definite facelift in the styling department, is longer and wider than the previous model. This means it is more spacious than ever. Suzuki calls it a truly practical seven-seat MPV. The second and third row seats can fold flat to create a completely flat storage space of 2.820 metres (with the front passenger seats also folded flat). If all the seats are up the boot measures 199-litres.
“We believe that a true seven-seater has to comfortably accommodate adult passengers in the third row. With the deep floor, more hip space and larger shoulder room, an adult passenger of up to 1.75 m will be seated comfortably, even on longer journeys,” says André Venter, divisional manager for sales and marketing at Suzuki South Africa.
To make life easier for those of us who are always made to sit in the back (I was the youngest child), the middle row has been redesigned to tilt and slide further forward to allow for easy ingress to and egress from the rearmost two seats. And because my brother would then fart and hold the windows closed, I am happy for those of you who will never have to experience this thanks to the new roof-mounted second air conditioning unit for improved airflow to rear passengers (on the GL model).
FEATURING…
The new Suzuki Ertiga comes with an array of new features which include USB and Bluetooth connectivity, steering controls (on GL) two air-conditioned cup holders and a 12V charging socket. Safety has not been compromised in any way. All Ertiga models are equipped with two airbags for front passengers and ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD). Suzuki has also added ISOFIX-approved seat anchors for child seats and a reverse parking sensor system for the GL model.
POWER….
The new Ertiga boasts a new 1.5-litre petrol engine which produces 77 kW and 138 Nm. It is mated to Suzuki’s well-known five-speed manual gearbox or four-speed manual transmission.
As soon as I get one on test I will give you more details. But for now, you should have enough info to guide you if you are looking for a spacious family car that won’t cost you the earth!
PRICING FOR THE NEW SUZUKI ERTIGA
All Ertiga models are sold with Suzuki’s promotional 200 000 km / five-year mechanical warranty and a four-year / 60 000 km service plan.
- Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 GA MT – R214 900
- Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 GL MT – R239 900
- Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 GL AT – R254 900
