Maruti Suzuki has once again grabbed headlines in the Indian car market. The country’s favorite family MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), the Maruti Ertiga, has received a fresh update for 2026. This isn’t just a small facelift; the new 2026 Ertiga ZXi variant brings big improvements in safety, comfort, and value for money.

If you are planning to buy a 7-seater car for your family this year, this update is very important for you. Here is everything you need to know about the new Maruti Ertiga 2026 model, its price, and why it is trending right now.

What is New in the 2026 Ertiga?

Maruti has focused on “Small Changes, Big Impact” for this 2026 update. The biggest talking point is the balance between luxury features and affordability.

• Standard Safety Upgrade: The most significant update is safety. The 2026 Ertiga now comes with 6 airbags as standard across more variants, not just the top model. This is a huge relief for families concerned about highway safety.
• Improved Cooling: India’s summers are hot, and Maruti knows it. The new model features repositioned AC vents. The second-row vents are now placed behind the front center console (instead of just the roof), and the third row gets dedicated side vents with speed control.
• Tech for Everyone: In today’s world, everyone needs a charged phone. The new Ertiga adds USB-C fast charging ports for passengers in the second and third rows. You don’t need to fight for the front charger anymore during long trips.
• New Look: While the overall shape remains the familiar boxy MPV style, there is a new roof spoiler that gives it a sportier, more modern look from the back.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, Maruti sticks to its trusted formula. The 2026 Ertiga is powered by the 1.5-litre K-Series Petrol Engine.

• Power: It produces around 102 bhp of power and 136.8 Nm of torque.
• Gearbox: You can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or a smooth 6-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters.
• CNG Option: For those who want maximum savings, the S-CNG version continues to be available, offering excellent mileage of over 26 km/kg.

The drive remains smooth and comfortable for city traffic, which is exactly what Ertiga owners love.

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Price and Value

This is where the news gets interesting. Reports suggest that due to updated pricing structures (some sources hint at new tax benefits), the Ertiga ZXi variant has become more accessible.

The manual version of the ZXi trim is priced competitively, starting around ₹10.91 Lakh (ex-showroom). This makes it one of the most value-for-money 7-seaters in India right now. When you compare it to rivals like the Kia Carens or Toyota Rumion, the Ertiga still offers the lowest maintenance cost and highest resale value.

Why This Matters for Indian Buyers

The 7-seater market in India is growing, but cars are getting expensive. Many middle-class families were finding it hard to upgrade from a hatchback to a big car.

With the 2026 updates, Maruti has addressed the two biggest complaints: Safety (by adding 6 airbags) and Rear Seat Comfort (better AC and charging ports). By keeping the price in check, Maruti is ensuring that the Ertiga remains the “King of MPVs” in India.

What Happens Next?

Dealers across India have started accepting bookings for the updated 2026 models. If you are interested, it is a good idea to visit a showroom soon because waiting periods for the Ertiga are historically long (sometimes 3 to 6 months).

Maruti is also expected to launch a mini-SUV later this year, but for big families, the Ertiga remains the primary choice.

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