The compact SUV and MPV segments have been experiencing exponential growth in the Indian automotive market. Buyers want to know, which is better Ertiga or S-Cross? Manufacturers such as Tata, Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki are battling it out in this segment. But when it comes to the Ertiga vs S-Cross, buyers will have to look closely at the two models to make a sensible decision.
The 7-seater Ertiga MPV has some rivals such as the Ertiga vs Carens, but we will be focussing on the Ertiga and S-Cross in this comparison. Prices for the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga start from Rs.8.35 lakh while the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross is priced at Rs.8.72. These may not be the richest car in the world, instead, they are budget-oriented crossovers that give you good value for money.
Table of Contents
Ertiga or S-Cross – Engine
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga was updated on March 15th, 2022. It is powered by the next-gen 1.5-litre K15C Smart Hybrid petrol engine which produces a maximum power output of 102 bhp and 136.8 Nm of peak torque. Regarding the drivetrain options, there is a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
There is also a CNG variant for the Ertiga producing 87 bhp @ 5,500 rpm and 121.5 Nm @ 4,200 rpm. The powerplant is adequate for Indian roads. It is refined and silent while idling. As for fuel economy, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga delivers 20.51 kmpl for the manual and 20.30 kmpl for the automatic.
The S-Cross is available with a 1.5 litre K15B that produces 103 bhp and 138 Nm of torque. Gearbox options are a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic shifter. The S-Cross is offered with Maruti Suzuki’s SHVS mild-hybrid system for improving fuel economy and enhanced driving performance.
Ertiga vs S-Cross – Exterior
The Ertiga has retained most of its styling elements from the previous generation however this generation gets a chrome grille, two-tone machined alloy wheels and chrome inserts at the front and rear.
There are some interesting colour options for the Ertiga car exterior such as the new Dignity Brown and Splendid Silver. Your car can always benefit from some car paint protection.
In terms of styling, the S-Cross gets the typical crossover look, a sort of cross between a large hatchback, an SUV and an MPV. Styling is appealing and carries on from the previous generations of the S-Cross. There is a chrome grille up front, large headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels and plastic cladding all around. The S-Cross is due for an update and we should see the exterior receive updated looks soon.
Ertiga and S-Cross – Interior
The Ertiga’s interior features have not changed from its predecessors but it gets a digital display in the instrument cluster. Additionally, there is automatic climate control, a keyless start-stop button, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, and a SmartPlay studio touchscreen infotainment system (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay). The third row of seats is spacious and offers good support.
The S-Cross interior is spacious and ergonomic. Entry/exit is easy and comfortable even for tall adults and seats offer ample thigh support. Headroom and visibility are excellent while the large OVRMs eliminate blind spots while driving. Interior materials are soft to touch and are of good quality. The cabin is versatile with a lot of cup holders and storage space.
Which is the better car, Ertiga or S-Cross?
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga has large comfortable seats and offers good support. Boot space is adequate if you fold down the third row of seats and offer up to 550 litres. The platform is lightweight which provides for better performance and higher fuel efficiency. Ride and handling are stable and well suited for long-distance drives. Driveability is good in traffic despite having that extra length. The Ertiga is a good car for long-distance driving.
The only disadvantage of the Ertiga is a cramped third row of seats. Interior material quality is also not the best and some of the plastics do not feel premium. The Ertiga is much smaller than its rivals such as the Toyota Innova and Mahindra Marazzo.
The S-Cross has excellent driving characteristics and a flat ride that makes highway journeys a pleasure. The interiors offer a lot of space and are well equipped with features. The interior quality could be better, and rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, and Nissan Kicks offer more features in this price range. The 1.5-litre petrol engine offers good mid-range power that blends well with good high-speed manners and predictable handling.
Conclusion
The recently updated Ertiga gets a refreshed engine and modern age features that improve its comfort and convenience. As with the older generations, it is an excellent choice for a 7-seater MPV for the small family. Seats are comfortable and car owners will be pleased with the Ertiga as a well-rounded package.
The S-Cross remains an unsung hero in the Maruti Suzuki stable. It comes with a spacious cabin, strong build quality, and a powerful engine that has excellent driving dynamics. It makes sense as a sensible and spacious crossover, that is compact enough to drive in the city.
In the end, both the Ertiga and S-Cross make for great daily drivers and are decent highway companions too. Add in the superb Maruti Suzuki after-sales network and hassle-free ownership, and you are left with two very capable and appealing cars.
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