The Maruti Suzuki Eeco is a familiar sight on Indian roads, known for its spacious interior, affordability, and utilitarian nature. Primarily targeting families and businesses seeking a people mover, the Eeco prioritizes practicality over performance or cutting-edge features. Let’s delve into the details and see if the Eeco lives up to its reputation as a dependable workhorse.
Frugal Powertrain
The Eeco comes with a single engine option – a 1.2-liter K-Series petrol engine available in CNG variants as well. The petrol engine produces 73 horsepower and 98 Nm of torque, while the CNG variant offers slightly lower power output. While ARAI mileage figures are impressive, ranging from 16.11 kmpl (petrol) to 21.94 km/kg (CNG), expect real-world figures to be slightly lower. However, the Eeco remains a fuel-efficient option, especially in the CNG variant.
Safety Basics
Safety features in the Eeco are basic. It comes equipped with a driver airbag (higher trims get dual airbags), ABS with EBD, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and reverse parking sensors. It has not yet been crash tested by Global NCAP, a benchmark safety rating agency in India.
Price that Fits Your Needs
The Eeco boasts a very competitive price tag, starting at a mere ₹ 5.32 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base petrol variant. It comes in various trims – STD, STD AC, CNG variants, Tour variants, and even an ambulance variant – catering to diverse needs. Higher trims offer features like air conditioning, power steering, and central locking.
Spacious and Functional Interior
The Eeco’s biggest strength lies in its spacious interior. It can comfortably seat seven passengers in a 2+2+3 layout. The cabin is no-frills but offers decent legroom and headroom for all passengers. Cargo space is decent with the third row up (200 liters) and expands significantly with the seats folded (650 liters).
Basic Tech Features
The Eeco doesn’t boast a fancy infotainment system. It comes with a basic music system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity in higher trims. There are no touchscreens or advanced features, keeping the focus on functionality and affordability.
A Master of Daily Duties
The Eeco is not meant for sporty driving. The engine offers adequate power for city commutes and highway cruising at moderate speeds. The focus lies on fuel efficiency and maneuverability in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, making it ideal for long journeys with passengers on board. Off-roading is strictly not recommended due to the low ground clearance.
Maruti Suzuki Reliability
Maruti Suzuki is known for its reliable and low-maintenance cars. The Eeco is no exception, with readily available spare parts and an extensive service network across India. Maintenance costs are likely to be on the lower side compared to some competitors.
Warranty and Service
Maruti Suzuki offers a standard warranty of 3 years/unlimited kilometers on the Eeco. Extended warranty options are available for purchase from dealerships. Finding service and parts for the Eeco is very easy due to Maruti’s widespread network.
Standing Out from the Crowd
The Eeco faces competition from other budget MPVs like the Tata Sumo and Mahindra Bolero. While the Sumo and Bolero offer a more rugged feel, the Eeco scores with its superior fuel efficiency, wider service network, and lower maintenance costs. However, if you prioritize advanced safety features or a more powerful engine, you might want to explore other options.
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency, especially in the CNG variant
- Spacious and comfortable interior with seating for seven
- Unbeatable price tag and low maintenance costs
- Maruti Suzuki’s reliability and extensive service network
Cons:
- Basic safety features compared to some competitors
- Not the most powerful engine option
- No frills or advanced features in the cabin
- Lower safety rating due to lack of crash test data
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki Eeco is a practical and affordable MPV that prioritizes space, fuel efficiency, and low ownership costs. Its utilitarian nature makes it ideal for families, businesses, and those seeking a dependable people mover. However, if you prioritize advanced safety features, a powerful engine, or a feature-rich interior, you might want to consider other options in the market. But for those seeking a budget-friendly and reliable MPV that excels at everyday tasks, the Eeco remains a compelling choice.