The Maruti Eeco has carved a niche for itself in the Indian automotive market as a budget-friendly and practical 7-seater vehicle. Its combination of affordability, versatility, and fuel efficiency has made it a popular choice for families and businesses alike. Let’s delve into the various aspects of the Maruti Eeco that make it a compelling option for the common man.
Variants and Pricing
The Maruti Eeco is available in several variants to cater to different needs and budgets:
- Eeco 5-Seater Standard (O/R Price Delhi: ₹5.61 Lakh): This is the base model, offering basic features and a 5-seater configuration.
- Eeco 7-Seater Standard (O/R Price Delhi: ₹6.32 Lakh): As the name suggests, this variant accommodates seven passengers, making it suitable for larger families.
- Eeco Cargo (O/R Price Delhi: ₹5.43 Lakh): Designed for commercial use, this variant focuses on maximizing cargo space.
- Eeco CNG (O/R Price Delhi: ₹6.85 Lakh): This variant is equipped with a factory-fitted CNG kit, offering a more economical fuel option.
- Eeco Ambulance (O/R Price Delhi: ₹7.21 Lakh): This specialized variant is designed for ambulance services.
It’s important to note that these are approximate on-road prices in Delhi and may vary depending on your location and the chosen dealership.
Mileage
One of the standout features of the Maruti Eeco is its impressive fuel efficiency:
- Petrol: The Eeco delivers a certified mileage of 19.71 kmpl, making it an economical choice for daily commuting.
- CNG: The CNG variant boasts an even better mileage of 26.78 km/kg, further reducing fuel costs.
Features
While the Maruti Eeco prioritizes practicality and affordability, it still offers several essential features:
- Spacious Interior: The Eeco’s boxy design maximizes interior space, providing ample headroom and legroom for all passengers.
- Flexible Seating: The rear seats can be folded or removed to create more cargo space when needed.
- AC and Heater: Air conditioning and heating ensure comfortable journeys in all weather conditions.
- Power Steering: Power steering makes maneuvering the Eeco easier, especially in city traffic.
- Sliding Doors: Sliding doors on both sides facilitate easy entry and exit for passengers, particularly in tight spaces.
- Safety Features: While basic, the Eeco includes features like child locks and seat belt reminders for enhanced safety.
Engine and Performance
A 1.2-liter petrol engine that produces 104.4 Nm of torque and 81 bhp of power powers the Maruti Eeco. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. While not the most powerful engine, it is adequate for city driving and occasional highway trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordability: The Eeco is one of the most affordable 7-seater cars in India.
- Fuel Efficiency: Its excellent mileage makes it an economical choice.
- Spacious Interior: It offers ample space for passengers and cargo.
- Versatility: It can be used for personal and commercial purposes.
- Low Maintenance Costs: Maruti Suzuki is known for its reliable and low-maintenance vehicles.
Cons:
- Basic Features: The Eeco lacks some modern features and creature comforts found in more expensive cars.
- Ride Quality: The ride can be a bit bumpy, especially on rough roads.
- Limited Safety Features: It offers only basic safety features.
- Not for Enthusiasts: The Eeco’s performance is not meant for spirited driving.