Suzuki Indonesia is now selling the 2019 Ertiga and we need it, too

Lately, we’ve witnessed two new MPVs that cause a stir in the segment. They were from two competing Japanese brands and Filipino car buyers went crazy proving which one’s better over the other. We’re talking about the Toyota Rush and Mitsubishi Xpander, which are most likely to be joined by another newcomer. 

It seems like Suzuki has jumped in on the fun, too, with the 2019 Ertiga and, boy, it’s a good looking one. It was revealed at the 2018 Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in April 2018 as the second-generation model of the brand’s MPV. Knowing that it is designed as a vehicle to be enjoyed by families, allow us to evaluate this update on the all-new Suzuki Ertiga.

Of course, what’s the point of a next-gen model if it would look exactly as the current one? Just look at that fascia; can you even still recognize it as the MPV from Suzuki? It’s got new shape for the headlamps, which are more handsome than the huge ones on the previous model. The fog lamps are also larger, oh, and the grille? It’s ten times better on this one, as far as how we see it.

There are also changes on the side profile, which modernized its appeal. Gone are the wheel arch character lines, as the all-new Ertiga has been smoothed out on the sides. There’s now a floating C-pillar for that youthful charm and a longer, wider, and taller body. Yup, it’s chasing after the Rush and Xpander in terms of their sizes. 

Evaluating the rear gave us a refreshing sight maybe because there are a couple of changes. The rear bumper has been re-molded, the tailgate received some detailing as it is now embossed from the rear windshield, there’s the new L-shaped taillight design, and it also appears that the rear window is now slanted to a certain angle. Is it just us or the taillight design really looks like a it got pulled out from the Honda CR-V?

Apart from the extremely-changed exterior, you also are off to a fine cabin complete with the beige upholstery which is kind of neat. You may now enjoy the convenience of a Push Start button, wood grain trim, cup holders with vents, as well as an infotainment display. With all that said, the cabin is indeed what a typical family needs.

Under the hood is a DOHC 1.5-liter VVT engine, which is a bigger engine compared to the 1.4L used in the locally-available Ertiga. So, from 95 hp and 130 Nm of torque, the all-new MPV now has 105 hp and 138 Nm of torque. That’s a great upgrade but considering that it has gotten bigger, we think this improvement in power was done just to compensate with its now-bigger dimensions. 

Now, the question on when would Suzuki Philippines welcome this sleek MPV in the market is currently left unanswered. We’ll have to wait for further announcement from Suzuki PH until they finally reveals their plans