6 Best MPV Alternatives to Maruti Suzuki Ertiga in 2026

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga continues to be one of India’s favourite 7-seater MPVs — thanks to its practicality, affordable price, and fuel-efficient hybrid engine. But in 2026, buyers have many great alternatives that offer more space, features, comfort, and even premium or eco-friendly technology.

Here are the top 6 MPV alternatives you should consider:

 1. Toyota Innova Crysta & Hycross

Best for: Families, long drives, resale value
The Toyota Innova is the gold standard of MPVs in India — known for comfort, reliability and long-term durability. The Crysta offers strong diesel performance and excellent space, while the newer Hycross hybrid brings improved fuel efficiency and a smoother ride.

Why it’s a top choice:

💡 Perfect if you travel long distances often or need premium comfort.

2. Kia Carens

Best for: Feature-packed family MPV
The Kia Carens is a direct rival to the Ertiga but comes with more premium features, versatile seating (6- or 7-seater), and better safety tech. It also now offers a CNG option, making it economical for daily use.

Top highlights:

  • Large touchscreen & connected car features

  • Available in petrol, diesel, and now CNG variant

  • Strong safety kit with more airbags

💡 Perfect if you want extra technology and feature value over the Ertiga.

 3. Maruti Suzuki XL6

Best for: Premium 6-seater experience
A more upmarket sibling to the Ertiga, the XL6 focuses on comfort and exclusivity with captain seats in the middle row, unique styling, and better interior feel.

Key perks:

  • Premium look and feel

  • Excellent ride comfort for long journeys

  • Same reliable Maruti 1.5L hybrid engine

💡 Perfect if you want a more premium, comfortable ride than the standard Ertiga.

 4. Renault Triber

Best for: Budget-friendly MPV
If you want a true 7-seater under a budget, the Renault Triber is an excellent pick. It’s one of the most affordable multi-purpose vehicles in India and comes with smart flexibility and decent space.

What makes it great:

  • Very budget-friendly price

  • Flexible seating and storage configurations

  • City-friendly size with surprising interior space

💡 Perfect if cost and practicality are your priority.

5. Toyota Rumion

Best for: Practical daily MPV
The Toyota Rumion is essentially a Toyota-branded Ertiga with Toyota’s service network and reliability benefits. It makes a practical choice against the Ertiga while offering similar hybrid efficiency.

Benefits:

  • Toyota’s strong brand reliability & service

  • Similar engine and driving dynamics as Ertiga

  • Slight styling and feature differences

💡 Perfect if you like Toyota’s ownership experience but want Ertiga-like practicality.

 6. Kia Carens Clavis EV

Best for: Eco-friendly MPV choice (Electric)
2025 saw the introduction of the Kia Carens Clavis EV — a locally-made electric MPV that brings eco-friendly power to the segment. With features like a front trunk (frunk) and EV benefits, it’s ideal for urban drivers wanting a zero-tailpipe-emission MPV.

Why consider this EV:

  • Electric powertrain (cleaner & cheaper running cost)

  • Spacious cabin and modern features

  • Frunk & EV-centric convenience

💡 Perfect if you want to go electric without leaving the MPV style behind.

 Quick Comparison Table

MPV Model Seating Best Feature Ideal For
Toyota Innova Crysta / Hycross 7 Comfort & reliability Long-distance families
Kia Carens 6 / 7 Feature-rich Feature seekers
Maruti XL6 6 Premium comfort Comfort-focused buyers
Renault Triber 7 Budget-friendly Value buyers
Toyota Rumion 7 Toyota reliability Practical daily use
Kia Carens Clavis EV 5 Electric MPV Eco & city buyers

Verdict

If your priority is value & features, the Kia Carens tops the list. For pure comfort and long drives, the Toyota Innova Hycross / Crysta remains unbeaten. Budget-conscious buyers will love the Renault Triber, while those seeking premium feel should consider the Maruti XL6. The Carens EV gives a glimpse of the future with electric mobility.

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