Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara: Maruti Suzuki isn’t known for its foray in the premium SUV game, but when it does, it has a plan.
The Grand Vitara is a testament to this — a car that combines rugged looks, contemporary equipment and something quite uncommon in this class from India’s most trusted carmaker: a robust hybrid offering.
After a long arrival in the Indian market with a new identity, the Grand Vitara is more than just another branding effort; it is an indicator that Maruti’s guns are trained on the big boys of the mid-sized SUV circuit.
Considering both the daily driver and the adventure-seeker, it’s designed for all bases.
Bold and Urban in Design
The first thing you realize about the Grand Vitara is that it is not a shrinking violet. Chunky, aggression-inducing grille, LED DRLs, split-headlamp setup, upright stance…
it definitely looks the part of the modern-day SUV. It’s evident in the confidence on its face — whether you pull up in the office or head out of town for the weekend, it commands the road.
And squared-off wheel arches, thick cladding and restrained chrome bits all help it look ready for whatever comes next. Maruti set out to pack a punch with this one, and they have done that.
A Grill Cover with Style
Get inside, and the Grand Vitara is impressive in there too. The dash is clean and modern, and higher trims feature soft-touch, duo-tone finishes, and 9-inch touchscreen infotainment that sits perfectly centered.
The leatherette upholstery, ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof (available on the top variants) give you a plush, premium feel that Maruti’s older model sorely missed.
The cabin is surprisingly roomy as well. Rear passengers have a good amount of leg- and headroom, and the reclining rear seatbacks are a nice touch for long drives.
The 373-litre boot space may not be the best in class, but it’s usable and cleverly packaged.
Range of Engines
Now, let’s talk performance. Vitara Grand Vitara comes with two engines – a 1.5L mild hybrid petrol and also a 1.5L strong hybrid (IEH or Intelligent Electric Hybrid).
The mild hybrid is a known quantity—smooth, economical and offered with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
There’s also the option for AllGrip all-wheel drive in the manual, something that not so many cars offer in this class.
But it’s the stop-there for the show, shore, the potent hybrid system, co-developed with Toyota. It provides almost silent electric-only operation at low speeds and good fuel economy (around 27 km per litter).
It is married to an e-CVT transmission which is smooth and produces a relaxing drive.
Performance isn’t sporty as such, obviously, but refinement and comfort are clearly the emphasis here.
Drive Experience: The Smooth Operator
On pavement, the Grand Vitara is smooth and stable. The suspension deals with bad roads really well, and body roll is kept in check for an SUV this big.
Steering is light and city-friendly, but not especially talkative.
The most notable trait is how quiet the cabin is — particularly in the hybrid. Engine noise is well muffled and the general sense of refinement is high.
It is designed for every day comfort, not cornering theatrics — and that’s quite all right with most consumers.
Tech and Safety Features
It’s feature packed, on par with class leaders any day, that Maruti Grand Vitara. You receive six airbags, ESC, hill-hold control, TPMS, 360-degree camera, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and connected car tech.
The more expensive trims do feel feature-rich and ready for the future.
Pros
Powerful hybrid version boasts fuel-efficient performance.
Spacious, comfortable cab with luxury touches
AllGrip AWD option for gearheads.
Equipped with panoramic sunroof, 360° camera and much more
Cons
Mild-hybrid isn’t the most outright punchy
paddle shifters and e-CVT not designed for spirited driving
Boot space is down slightly in hybrid
No diesel engine option
Expensive when fully loaded relative to competitors
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara: Final Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is a welcome change for the brand.
It makes hybrid technology accessible to the masses, brings comfort and practicality together at an affordable price and finally offers Maruti enthusiasts a solid, real SUV to dream about.
It may not be the quickest or sportiest SUV in its segment, but for consumers who prioritize efficiency, dependability and up-to-date style—it’s a bull’s-eye.