Overview
- The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Raipur ordered the dealer and Maruti Suzuki to provide a new E20‑compatible Grand Vitara within 45 days or refund the full purchase price.
- The commission found the car was 17 months old though sold as new and concluded it did not have an E20 petrol‑supported engine, a finding drawn from the July 14 ruling.
- Complainant Dr. Premraj Debta reported recurring engine failures beginning in November 2024 after driving about 21,913 km and asked for a refund and damages when the showroom refused a replacement.
- Maruti and the dealer told the commission the engine was harmed by contaminated fuel described as a 'white jelly‑like' substance and said warranty exclusions apply, while Maruti insists the model is E20 compatible and will appeal the order.
- The commission also awarded about Rs 1 lakh for mental harassment and Rs 10,000 for litigation costs, set an approximate total liability at Rs 21.6 lakh, and imposed a 7% annual interest penalty for delayed compliance, a decision that could shape consumer protections during India’s E20 rollout.