Maruti Eeco

Hey car enthusiasts and smart buyers! Are you on the hunt for a new vehicle in India? We know how crucial it is to get it right. You are probably thinking about your budget, how safe the car is, what your monthly maintenance will look like, the latest features it offers, and of course, how good the company service is. Finding a car that ticks all these boxes can be a challenge, especially if practicality and space are high on your list. Well, today, we are going to dive deep into a vehicle that has been a workhorse for many Indian families and businesses for years: the new Maruti Eeco. Let us see if this utilitarian van is the perfect fit for your needs.

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.2L K12N Dual Jet, Dual VVT Petrol Engine
• Displacement: 1197 cc

Max Power (Petrol): 80.76 PS at 6000 rpmMax Power (CNG): 71.69 PS at 6000 rpmMax Torque (Petrol): 104.4 Nm at 3000 rpmMax Torque (CNG): 95 Nm at 3000 rpmFuel Efficiency (Petrol): Around 19.71 kmplFuel Efficiency (CNG): Around 26.78 km/kgTransmission: 5-speed Manual

Design Overview

Exterior:

The Maruti Eeco has always been about function over form, and the new model largely sticks to this tried-and-tested formula. It keeps its familiar boxy shape, which is crucial for maximizing interior space. The design is simple and practical, focusing on utility rather than flashy looks. You will find large headlights and a straightforward grille. It is designed to be tough and reliable for everyday use, whether for family commutes or commercial purposes.

Interior:

Step inside the new Eeco, and you will notice a refreshed cabin. While it retains its basic and functional layout, Maruti has introduced a few welcome changes to enhance comfort and convenience. The dashboard gets a new digital instrument cluster, which looks more modern and is easier to read. The seats are designed for comfort, especially for long journeys, and the front seats now offer a reclining function. The overall theme is uncluttered, making it easy to access controls. The main highlight remains the sheer amount of space it offers, capable of seating up to 7 people comfortably or carrying a lot of cargo.

Key Features

The Maruti Eeco is a vehicle built with practicality in mind, so do not expect a long list of high-tech gadgets you might find in more expensive cars. However, it offers essential features to make your ride comfortable and safe for its segment:

• New Digital Instrument Cluster
• Reclining Front Seats
• Integrated Headrests
• Cabin Air Filter (New Addition)
• Manual Air Conditioning (AC)
• 12V Accessory Socket
• Dual Tone Interior Theme
• Storage spaces like glove box and door pockets

Please note: The Eeco is a budget-friendly utility vehicle. Therefore, advanced features like a large infotainment screen, connectivity apps, sunroof, 360-degree camera, wireless charging, or automatic climate control are not available in this model. Its strength lies in its core utility and reliability.

What is the Ground Clearance of Maruti Eeco?

• Ground Clearance: 160 mm

This ground clearance is adequate for most Indian road conditions, allowing the Eeco to navigate over speed breakers and uneven surfaces without much trouble.

What is the Boot Space of Maruti Eeco?

• Boot Space (5-seater): Approximately 540 litres (with rear seats folded)
• Boot Space (7-seater): Minimal (when all three rows are in use, as the third row occupies most of the space)

The Eeco excels in versatility. With the 5-seater variant, removing the rear seats or folding them down creates a cavernous cargo area, making it a favourite for small businesses. In the 7-seater version, the boot space is very limited when all seats are occupied, but it can still hold a few small bags.

What are the Dimensions of Maruti Eeco?

• Length: 3675 mm
• Width: 1475 mm
• Height: 1800 mm (1825 mm for CNG variant)
• Wheelbase: 2350 mm

Powertrain Options

The Maruti Eeco comes with two main powertrain choices to suit different needs:

• Petrol: Powered by the refined 1.2L K12N Dual Jet, Dual VVT petrol engine, offering good power for city and highway drives, along with decent fuel efficiency.
• CNG: A popular and cost-effective option, the factory-fitted CNG variant provides excellent fuel economy, making it ideal for those with high daily running.

Both options come paired with a smooth 5-speed manual transmission, emphasizing reliability and low maintenance.

Safety Features

Maruti has upgraded the Eeco with essential safety features to meet current regulations and offer peace of mind. Standard safety features include:

• Dual Front Airbags (Driver and Passenger)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Reverse Parking Sensors
• Engine Immobilizer
• Seatbelt Reminders for Driver and Co-driver
• Child Lock on Rear Doors

NCAP Rating Table

As of our last update, the Maruti Eeco has NOT been tested by Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP. Therefore, there is no official NCAP safety rating available for this model.

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Safety Rating	Child Occupant Safety Rating
Bharat NCAP	Not Tested	Not Tested
Global NCAP	Not Tested	Not Tested

It is important for buyers to be aware of this, especially if crash test ratings are a primary concern for their purchase decision.

Rivals of Maruti Eeco

The Maruti Eeco really sits in a unique space in the Indian market. While it does not have many direct head-to-head rivals, its closest competitors would be other budget people movers or small vans used for commercial purposes. Some vehicles that buyers might consider as alternatives, depending on their priority, include:

• Mahindra Supro Van
• Tata Ace (more a cargo vehicle, but sometimes cross-shopped for commercial use)
• Various entry-level hatchbacks or compact SUVs if space is not the absolute top priority.

However, for its combination of seating capacity, cargo space, low running cost, and widespread service network at its price point, the Eeco largely creates its own niche.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros:

• Unbeatable Value for Money: One of the most affordable 7-seater vehicles or high-capacity vans on the market.
• Massive Interior Space: Excellent for large families or commercial use (cargo, taxi).
• Low Running Costs: High fuel efficiency, especially the CNG variant, and very affordable maintenance.
• Reliable Engine: The new K-series engine is known for its durability and performance.
• Extensive Service Network: Maruti Suzuki's unparalleled service reach across India ensures easy and affordable maintenance.
• High Resale Value: Maruti vehicles generally hold their value well.
• Practical and Utilitarian: A no-nonsense vehicle designed for getting the job done.

Cons:

• Basic Features: Lacks modern infotainment, automatic climate control, and other comfort features found in newer cars.
• Dated Design: The exterior design is very utilitarian and has not changed much over the years, which might not appeal to everyone.
• No Automatic Transmission: Only available with a manual gearbox, which might be a deal-breaker for some city drivers.
• Limited Advanced Safety: While it has essential safety features, it lacks more advanced active safety tech like ESP or hill-hold assist.
• No NCAP Rating: The absence of a crash test rating might be a concern for safety-conscious buyers.
• Average Driving Dynamics: It is not built for spirited driving; the focus is on practicality and ease of handling in urban environments.

Conclusion

So, who is the new Maruti Eeco for? It is clearly for the buyer who prioritizes maximum space, minimal running costs, and unmatched reliability above all else. If you are a large family on a strict budget, a small business owner needing a dependable cargo mover, or a taxi operator looking for a fuel-efficient and spacious vehicle, the Eeco remains an incredibly strong contender.

While it might not wow you with fancy features or a cutting-edge design, its core strengths – practicality, affordability, and Maruti's legendary after-sales service – make it an excellent and trustworthy choice. It is a car that works hard, keeps costs low, and gets the job done without complaint. If these sound like your priorities, then the new Maruti Eeco is definitely worth a closer look for your garage or business fleet.