Auto Expo 2010: Maruti launches Versa replacement Eeco at just Rs2.6 lakh

The country's largest carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, today launched its much-anticipated multi-purpose vehicle Eeco, at an introductory price between Rs2.59 lakh and Rs 2.89 lakh.

Eeco, a family car, is based on the outgoing Versa multi-purpose vehicle. While popular among a section of users, Versa never really fulfilled its potential in the market, and the company no doubt hopes Eeco will do better.

Eeco is a five-door, 'C' segment vehicle, which has been specifically designed for India. It comes with a new, powerful and highly fuel efficient 1200cc engine delivering 73 bhp of power at 6000 rpm and a high torque of 101Nm at 3000 rpm, according to the company.

"Maruti Suzuki engineers have specially developed the Eeco, its new powerful engine and a new transmission system to meet the diverse consumer aspirations for a vehicle that fits a large family and at the same time provides flexibility for dual use. It meets the twin objectives of being a spacious family car and a dependable vehicle to run businesses," Maruti Suzuki India managing director and chief executive Shinzo Nakanishi told reporters at the ongoing Auto Expo 2010 in New Delhi.

Maruti said the Eeco represents the growing expertise of Maruti Suzuki engineers to develop vehicles in India, which is also in line with parent Suzuki Motor Corporation's vision of turning India into a global hub for small car design.

Maruti Suzuki has launched Eeco in 3 variants – 5-seat standard, 5-seat AC standard, and 7-seat standard. It is offered in six colours: metallic glistening grey, metallic silky silver, metallic midnight black, metallic blue blaze, bright red, and superior white.