New Delhi: Maruti Suzuki India has announced that it will challenge the order of the Raipur District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, which directed the company to replace a customer’s Grand Vitara with a new E20-compatible model or refund the full purchase price. The company maintains that the vehicle’s technical issues were caused by contaminated fuel, not by the use of E20 petrol.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Maruti Suzuki said the vehicle in question was fully compatible with E20 fuel, as clearly stated in its owner’s manual. According to the company, tests on the fuel collected from the vehicle revealed clear evidence of contamination, while several material facts related to the case were not reflected in the consumer commission’s order.
The automaker said it would challenge the ruling before the appropriate higher judicial forum in accordance with the law. It also reiterated its commitment to product quality, safety and customer satisfaction, stating that its vehicles are supported by robust engineering, manufacturing processes and quality control systems.
Earlier, the Raipur District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission ruled in favour of the customer, who alleged repeated engine problems after using ethanol-blended E20 petrol. The complainant claimed the vehicle experienced engine stalling and related issues, prompting the commission to direct Maruti Suzuki to either replace the Grand Vitara with a new E20-compatible model or refund the entire purchase price.
The case comes amid an ongoing national debate over the use of E20 fuel. The government is promoting the phased adoption of ethanol-blended petrol, while automobile manufacturers and industry bodies have consistently maintained that E20 fuel is safe for vehicles specifically designed and certified for its use.
Maruti Suzuki has argued that the dispute should not be attributed to E20 fuel compatibility, as the available technical evidence points to fuel contamination. The company said it expects the complete facts of the case to be examined during the appellate proceedings before the higher judicial forum.
The dispute has drawn attention to broader issues concerning E20 fuel compatibility, manufacturer responsibility and consumer rights. The outcome of the appeal is expected to have wider implications for similar cases involving ethanol-blended fuel and vehicle performance.
