Maruti Suzuki Eeco

Maruti Suzuki successfully forayed in the MPV segment with their first launch, Omni, in 1985, followed by another launch, Versa, in 2001, with the vision of occupying the family vehicle segment in India. Omni became an instant hit, where as Versa turned out to be a flop show due to its tacky design.
Versa was discontinued and a redesigned, low cost version, Eeco was launched to suit the needs of lower Indian middle-class families with 5-seater and 7-seater options. The 7-seater is available in just one basic variant and the 5-seater is available in four variants – basic five-seater, five-seater with A/C and heater, five-seater with heater and CNG, and five-seater with A/C, heater and CNG. Launched in a wide range of six different colours - superior white, bright red, metallic blue blaze, metallic glistening grey, metallic midnight black and metallic silky silver, it is available in petrol and CNG versions for cost-conscious buyers. The CNG 5-Seater AC makes it an ideal choice for large families, car pooling and mini-taxi, and assures comfort and easy drivability. It comes with 2 years or 40,000 km manufacturer warranty.

The all-new Eeco was launched with attractive new side body graphics in a refreshed look. The sliding door ensures easy ingress and egress for middle row passengers and is a boon when doors cannot be opened in congested traffic areas.
Eeco looks decent with subtle headlamps, tiny tail-lamps and improved-quality bumpers; however, the puny 155-section tires with 13’’ rims don’t compliment the vehicle.

Eeco’s interiors adorn Maruti’s iconic grey and beige combination with artificial leather upholstery. The high seats with large front glass pane offers supreme front view in heavy traffic. The cabin space is large and offers ample boot space, ideal for tall drivers. Equipped with contemporary new digital instrument panel comprising fuel level, trip meter and odometer ensures easy readability and complete control to the rider. However, the middle and rear seats are devoid of headrests, and make it uncomfortable. It also lacks the basic features, such as music system, power steering and luggage space.

Powered with 1.2-litre petrol engine, it produces an output of 73 bhp power at 6000 rpm and 10 Nm top torque. The engine is mated with a five-speed manual gearbox and DSA (Diagonal Shift Assistance), providing power to the rear wheels, while the middle positioning improves the car’s dynamics. Equipped with a fully-tuned McPherson-strut suspension at the front and a three-link rigid suspension at the rear, it inevitably becomes an ideal vehicle for Indian roads.

Maruti Eeco is available in the petrol version only, and the ARAI-certified fuel efficiency provides a delightful mileage of 15.1 km/l for petrol and about 20 km/l for CNG.

Eeco lacks safety features with no airbags or middle and rear three-point seat belts. The car is prone to thefts as there is no central locking, anti-lock braking system and brake assist. However, the braking system scores points with the installation of ventilation disc along with the brake drum at the rear end, which provides immense power to stop the car even if it’s moving at higher speed.

Though equipped with manual steering, it still ensures smooth ride but due to short wheelbase, even the slightest jerks are felt in the cabin, especially on the rear seats.
For the first time, a Maruti Suzuki vehicle has been introduced with DSA (Diagonal Shift Assistance) for smoother gear shifting and the front is supported by McPherson strut suspension with dual rate coil springs for superior handling and efficient driving.

Eeco stands the tallest amongst its competitors, but it’s sure to witness serious competition by stalwarts like Tata Motors, General Motors and M&M. Eeco is currently in competition with Tata Motor’s Venture and M&M’s Maxximo Van.