Maruti Suzuki Challenges Consumer Court Order to Replace E20-Compatible Grand Vitara

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. has announced that it will challenge an order issued by the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Raipur , which directed the automaker to replace a customer's vehicle with a new E20-compatible model or refund the purchase price over alleged engine issues linked to ethanol-blended fuel.

In a statement on Thursday, the company said the vehicle involved in the dispute was already fully compatible with E20 fuel , contrary to the findings reflected in the consumer court's order. Maruti Suzuki maintained that the vehicle's compatibility with E20 fuel was clearly disclosed in the owner's manual at the time of purchase.

The dispute stems from a complaint filed by the owner of a Grand Vitara , who alleged that the vehicle experienced repeated engine problems after being driven on E20 ethanol-blended petrol . The Raipur consumer commission reportedly ruled in favour of the customer, directing the company to either provide a new E20-compatible vehicle or refund the purchase amount.

Responding to the ruling, Maruti Suzuki said there was evidence of fuel contamination in the sample collected from the customer's vehicle and argued that this critical aspect had not been adequately reflected in the commission's order.

The company further stated that several other relevant facts were also omitted from the order and asserted that the decision did not fully consider the available evidence.

"Maruti Suzuki will take necessary steps to challenge the impugned order before the appropriate higher forum in accordance with law," the automaker said.

The company reiterated its commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction , stating that its vehicles are backed by robust engineering, manufacturing processes, and quality control systems.

The case comes amid India's ongoing transition to E20 fuel , which contains up to 20 per cent ethanol blended with petrol as part of the government's initiative to reduce crude oil imports and lower emissions. Automakers have been introducing E20-compatible vehicles to meet evolving fuel standards, making disputes over compatibility and fuel quality increasingly significant for both consumers and manufacturers.