We have mentioned several times on our blog that the new Maruti Eeco comes with a K-series engine but it actually turns out that the Eeco still maintains the 1.3L G13B engine found on the old Versa and Swift but with a lower bore and stroke that brings the engine capacity down to just 1196cc. The G13B engine has been modified and upgraded to meet the Bharat Stage-4 norms.

The engine now gets a new induction system and light weight pistons in the interests of better fuel economy and lower intertia. The engine now makes 73bhp @ 6000rpm and 103Nm @ 3000rpm. However, since this vehicle is rear wheel drive, the losses at the wheels are more as compared to front drive vehicles.

The reason behind Maruti’s decision to continue with an updated G13B engine comes from the fact that incorporating a K series engine would invite a change of engine mounts and extensive changes tot he platform that would have added to costs. Maruti lowered the capacity to under 1200cc to take advantage of the small car norms and hence tax breaks. The Eeco is 3675mm long and hence a part of the competitive pricing can also be attributed to the small car categorisation of the Eeco.

The driving factor for the Eeco would be its price which is just around Rs 50,000-75,000 above that of the Omni. At the price of the Eeco, one gets improved safety, space and power. The Eeco is actually an Omni beater. Remember that Maruti will not upgrade the Omni to BS-4 leaving the Eeco to do th at job in the metros. So will the Eeco bite? Lets wait for its sales figures which we will bring you once the January month is over.

The error is regretted.

Source : Autocar India

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