While hatchbacks still dominate the Indian market, buyers are now exploring options giving a chance to carmakers to venture into new segments. The once ignorant MPV segment has recently gained impetus in India. Surprisingly, Tata Motors was the first to showcase an MPV which unfortunately could never be materialized as the company did not see any potential back then. However, there is a complete turn-around in the situation with so many options available in the MPV segment than before. Apart from offering generous space to occupants, MPVs return promising mileage and are available at a relatively affordable price. We bring you the most fuel efficient MPVs in India that promise impressive mileage figures.
1) Honda Mobilio
(Honda Mobilio)
Based on the versatile Brio platform, Honda’s first MPV for India, Mobilio made its debut at the 2014 Auto Expo. What makes it stand out is the space on offer, thanks to the boastful dimensions and long wheelbase of 2650mm ensuring ample space split across three rows. As for engine set up, the MPV is available with 1.5 litre petrol and diesel options. While the petrol motor delivers decent mileage, it is the diesel unit which is very frugal returning over 24 kmpl.
Fuel Efficiency: 24.5kmpl
Price: Starts at 7.10 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
2) Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
(Maruti Suzuki Ertiga)
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga was the first compact MPV that initiated a revolution in the MPV segment. The most amusing thing about the MPV is that it isn’t giant looking, yet it offers space for seven and all that comes at a lucrative price. Ertiga range is available in petrol and diesel engines, but here we are looking at the Fiat sourced 1.3 litre, diesel powertrain which puts out 88.8bhp along with 200Nm and returns 20.77kmpl making it the second most fuel efficient MPV in India.
Fuel Efficiency: 20.77kmpl
Price: Starts at 6.18 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
3) Datsun Go Plus
(Datsun Go Plus)
Measuring less than four meters, the Go Plus MPV from Nissan’s low cost brand, Datsun was instrumental in inducting sub-four meter MPV segment in India. Dimensionally, the MPV measures 3995mm long, 1635mm wide, 1490mm high and has a wheelbase of 2450mm. Go+ is akin to its smaller sibling, GO hatchback save for the additional third row which can accommodate kids. Boot space is restricted at just 48 litres which can be expanded to 347 litres by folding the third seat. On the outside, the MPV gets a changed rear, while the front and side ends are largely similar to GO hatchback. Available in petrol guise only, the MPV derives power from the same, 1.2-litre petrol, engine that does duty on the GO hatchback. This engine churns out a maximum power output of 67bhp and peak torque of 104Nm and it is a strong contender when it comes to fuel efficiency.
Fuel Efficiency: 20.6kmpl
Price: Starts from 3.82 lakhs (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
4) Renault Lodgy (108bhp)
(Renault Lodgy)
Sold in international markets as Dacia Lodgy, the Renault Lodgy MPV gets a Renault badge for the Indian market. Underpinning the same platform as Duster (slightly modified), Lodgy also shares styling cues with the SUV on the inside. The MPV offers class-leading wheelbase of 2810mm, inferring ample space for occupants inside. That said, the MPV is available in seven and eight seat layout. Power comes from the 1.5 litre K9K diesel engine developing power in two states of tune- 84bhp and 108bhp. This is the same engine that serves Duster SUV. Available only with manual gearbox, Renault will soon roll out an AMT version in the coming months.
Fuel Efficiency: 19.98kmpl
Price: Starts from 8.54 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
5) Mahindra Xylo
(Mahindra Xylo MPV)
Mahindra Xylo is one of the oldest contenders in the segment that has a large boxy semblance unlike the newer models. The 4250mm of length, 2760mm of wheelbase and 186mm of ride height hints at a roomy cabin. Under the hood, the MPV features the powerful 2.2 litre mHawk engine generating 118bhp along with 280Nm.
Fuel Efficiency: 14.02kmpl
Price: Starts from 8.01 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
Next Read: SUVs in India Under 15 Lakh
