Just when everyone’s attention is focused on Mitsubishi and Toyota in the seven-seater subcompact MPV/SUV segment, here comes Suzuki launching the second-generation Ertiga in Indonesia. And if the official photographs are anything to go by, we can confidently predict a tight three-way tussle in this class.

At 4,395mm long, 1,735mm wide and 1,690mm tall—with a wheelbase of 2,740mm—the all-new Ertiga is just a tad smaller than both the Xpander and the Rush. It is based on the brand’s new-generation Heartect platform that also underpins the Swift subcompact hatchback. Needless to say, this vehicle officially replaces the first model released globally in 2012. The outgoing model is said to have sold a total of 676,000 units in over 70 markets as of February this year.

The new Ertiga, which will be manufactured in India and Indonesia, is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder VVT gasoline engine rated at 103hp and 138Nm. Offering five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission options, the MPV comes equipped with two front airbags, electronic stability program, antilock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution (well, at least the version to be sold in Indonesia).

With Suzuki Philippines surging forward in the sales department in the past couple of years, the new Ertiga should serve as yet another weapon in the company’s artillery. We can all expect the car to arrive in our market soon as the local distributor aims to capitalize on the brand’s strong performance and the subcompact MPV segment’s popularity. Things should get pretty interesting in this class.