The launch of Toyota Innova in the country way back in 2005 has changed the way you look a Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV) or Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV). Earlier, an MUV or MPV was only about space and space minus any modern day feature, comfort or gadgets. At that point of time, Innova was termed as 'risk' because it offered optimum 'sedan-like' comfort along with innovative equipments and premium looking outer shell with a futuristic face. But keeping all the taunts aside it came, it saw and it conquered the MUV segment comprehensively creating a golden benchmark for the others to follow.
Recently it got its first facelift, which has made it sportier and more upright than the previous one together with addition of several gadgets at the instrument cluster and console along with grand comfort making it a multi 'Premium' vehicle in the segment. While the hood has got two choices of motors namely diesel 2494cc and 1998cc petrol mill that offers a mileage of 12.0kmpl and 13.5kmpl respectively. After leading the segment for long, it got first pinch by Mahindra Xylo, which is second most bestselling after Toyota Innova in India. The rivalry will undeniably become denser after the launch of upcoming Maruti Ertiga MPV and Nissan Evalia; both were showcased at 2012 Delhi Auto Expo.
Maruti Ertiga
This compact MPV from Maruti has been the talk-of-the-globe ever since it was displayed as RIII Concept at many Auto Shows worldwide. Maruti Ertiga MPV will be made available in convenient options of petrol and diesel powered low displacement engines, which can have some edge over the two big diesel power-trains offered in Innova. The 7-seater will have decent space in the cabin along with many up-to-date elements as well. Although it will not fight in terms of power with Innova's 2.5L or smaller 2.0L engine, but will definitely eat a good amount of market share when it comes to fuel efficiency. It will offer very good drivability compared to Toyota MPV due to its compact design. The Ertiga will be launched by the end of this month i.e. March 2012.
Nissan Evalia
Nissan Evalia is also said to be 'Nissan NV200' and with its launch, the battle will worsen as the two Japanese auto majors will be on even grounds as both will be offering near about the same size vehicle. The Nissan MPV has won many awards as it provides optimum utility to its buyers. Globally the 8-9 seater is available in many avatars for instance, taxi and cargo carrier along with private and passenger vehicle. Nissan is said to launch it as premium MUV, which has outmost quality material used in the interiors together with technically advanced gadgets and its robust yet superior looking face. It is expected to boast a 2.0L heart under the bonnet with petrol and diesel run choices that offer amazing mileage figures of more than or around 15 kmpl. This Nissan flagship vehicle will be brought here in August 2012.
