How does the Maruti Suzuki Victoris stand out from other SUVs in India?
Maruti Suzuki’s latest flagship SUV, the Victoris, is grabbing attention for all the right reasons. It’s not just another addition to the crowded SUV market in India—it’s a statement about where Suzuki is headed. While the Victoris shares its underpinnings with the familiar Grand Vitara, it’s been given a fresh identity through bolder styling, a more upscale cabin, and a tech-forward feature list that’s hard to ignore.
The Victoris measures 4,360 mm in length and 1,795 mm in width, making it just a hair larger than the Grand Vitara. Yet, it’s the design that really sets it apart. Think larger LED headlights, a slim grille, and a rear end punctuated by full-width LED taillights that wouldn’t look out of place on a much pricier EV. The Victoris is also the first Maruti Suzuki to offer Level 2 driver-assistance features—a move that signals Suzuki’s intent to play in the premium league.
What new features and technology does the Victoris offer inside?
Step inside, and the Victoris feels like a leap forward for Maruti Suzuki. The centerpiece is a 10.1-inch infotainment screen perched high on the dash, flanked by textured upholstery and a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with light. Ambient lighting with 64 color options, ventilated front seats, and a Harman audio system with Dolby Atmos bring a touch of luxury that’s rare at this price point.
Wireless charging, Alexa integration, a 360-degree camera, and a hands-free powered tailgate round out the tech suite. For those who want to go all-in, the optional Raffine Package adds dark chrome accents, wood trim, illuminated sills, and plush floor mats. These aren’t just gimmicks—they’re the kind of thoughtful upgrades that make daily driving genuinely more pleasant.
How does the Victoris perform, and what are the engine options?
Under the hood, the Victoris sticks to Suzuki’s proven formula but adds a bit of flexibility. Buyers can choose from mild-hybrid, full hybrid, or bi-fuel (gasoline/CNG) powertrains. The highlight is the Strong Hybrid model, which pairs a 1.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined 114 hp and 141 Nm of torque. That’s enough for brisk city driving and confident highway cruising, especially when paired with Suzuki’s Allgrip Select all-wheel-drive system.
The hybrid system isn’t just about performance—it’s about efficiency, too. Recent data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) shows that hybrid SUVs in India are gaining traction, with sales up over 30% year-on-year in 2023. The Victoris is poised to ride that wave, especially among buyers looking to cut fuel costs without sacrificing comfort or capability.
How does the Victoris compare to the Grand Vitara and other rivals?
At first glance, the Victoris and Grand Vitara might seem like siblings with different wardrobes. They share the same Heartect platform and wheelbase, but the Victoris edges ahead with a more premium interior, advanced tech, and a slightly larger footprint. In terms of rivals, it’s gunning for the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Where the Victoris really shines is its blend of features and value. While Maruti Suzuki hasn’t announced final pricing, it’s expected to slot just above the Grand Vitara, which currently ranges from ₹13.35 to ₹23.86 lakh. Given the Victoris’s richer equipment list, it’s likely to appeal to buyers who want a bit more luxury without stepping into the stratospheric price territory of imported SUVs.
Is the Victoris a good fit for Indian roads and lifestyles?
Absolutely. Suzuki’s reputation for building tough, reliable cars that can handle India’s diverse road conditions is well-earned. The Victoris builds on that with a suspension tuned for comfort, a high ground clearance, and the option of all-wheel drive for those weekend getaways into the hills. The addition of a CNG variant also speaks to Maruti’s understanding of the Indian market, where running costs are always top of mind.
The Victoris’s cabin is roomy enough for families, and the tech features make long drives less of a chore. The hands-free tailgate and 360-degree camera are small touches that make a big difference in crowded city parking lots.
What’s the outlook for the Victoris—will it be exported or stay exclusive to India?
For now, the Victoris is an India-first model, with no official word on exports. That said, Suzuki has a history of leveraging its Indian lineup for other emerging markets, so it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Victoris pop up elsewhere in the future. In the meantime, it stands as the most feature-rich, aspirational SUV in Maruti Suzuki’s domestic stable.
The big takeaway? The Victoris isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week—maybe test-drive a hybrid or explore a new tech feature—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Sometimes, the right upgrade is all it takes to transform the everyday drive into something special.