Maruti Suzuki Ertiga has been conferred with the coveted "Family Car of the Year 2012" award by country's leading automobile publication, BBC TopGear India.

With its 3-row seating configuration in a compact overall design, the Ertiga has been chosen for the title for creating an altogether new "compact MPV" segment in the automobile industry.

S Sandilya, President, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, presented the award to CV Raman, Executive Director (Engineering), Maruti Suzuki.

Launched in April this year, Ertiga marks Maruti Suzuki's entry into the utility vehicle segment in Indian automobile industry. While the vehicle expanded company product portfolio further, Ertiga pioneered the concept of new compact Utility vehicle.

Ertiga primarily designed keeping in mind the aspirations of urban Indian families combines the compactness, style and fuel efficiency - rare attributes in a utility vehicles. Moreover, while Ertiga carries distinct UV outline, under its monocoque frame lies the car DNA which makes driving Ertiga a special experience.

Paying tributes to Ertiga's distinctive characteristic as a pioneer UV in India, the magazine noted, "It is Ertiga's compact dimensions, light control and fuel efficient and adequately powered engines that endear it to the family-focussed buyer."

In Ertiga, Maruti Suzuki has introduced the next generation 1.4 litre K-series VVT petrol engine. Ertiga is the first vehicle in company's product range that is being powered by this highly fuel efficient engine. The diesel variant of Ertiga is powered by an acclaimed 1248cc DDiS VGT engine. The compact Ertiga offers flexi-seating to accommodate 5+2 people (2+3+2) and a lot of baggage space.

Highlighting the grounds for final verdict on Ertiga, the Top Gear magazine commented, "Even though the Ertiga is completely different from anything that has ever come out of Maruti, it remains true to Maruti's core values. It's relatively easy on the wallet, comes with a great set of diesel and petrol engines and most importantly, carries the reassurance of Maruti's extensive service network. That's why it's a super hit already and our Family Car of the Year."

Since its launch in April this year, Ertiga has sold over 55,000 units.