Maruti Grand Vitara: When I first laid eyes on the Maruti Grand Vitara, I was captivated by its bold stance and modern design. As someone who appreciates a good SUV, the Grand Vitara promised a lot of style, comfort, cutting-edge technology, and performance. So, I decided to take it for a spin and see if it lived up to the hype.
Maruti Grand Vitara Exterior Design
The Grand Vitara’s exterior is undeniably striking. The bold front grille, LED projector headlights, and sleek body lines give it a sophisticated yet rugged look. Its dimensions, 4345 mm in length and 1795 mm in width, make it compact enough for urban driving while still commanding presence on the road. The panoramic sunroof was an instant favorite; it added an airy feel to the cabin and made the SUV look even more premium.
Maruti Grand Vitara Interior and Features
The interior of the Grand Vitara is where Maruti Suzuki has truly stepped up its game. The cabin feels plush, with premium materials like diamond-stitched leatherette seat covers in the strong hybrid variant.
The dual-tone dashboard with metal accents caught my eye immediately. However, I did notice some hard plastic on the upper section of the dashboard — a minor letdown in an otherwise luxurious setup.
The infotainment system is another highlight. The top trims feature a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the strong hybrid variant boasts a fully digital driver’s console. Features like ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and over 40 connected car features add convenience and elevate the driving experience.
Maruti Grand Vitara Performance
Now comes the real test of performance. The Grand Vitara offers two petrol engines (1462 cc and 1490 cc), along with a CNG option. I drove the strong hybrid version powered by a 91 bhp internal combustion engine paired with a 79 bhp electric motor. The hybrid technology impressed me; starting in EV mode ensured smooth acceleration without lag.
Driving through city traffic was effortless thanks to its eCVT transmission and light steering wheel. The regenerative braking system was another plus, helping recharge the battery during stops. However, when I pushed it on highways, the rubber-band effect of the CVT became noticeable — there’s a slight lag between engine noise and acceleration.
The Grand Vitara isn’t built for aggressive driving; it’s best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Its three driving modes, Sport, Normal, and Eco, cater to different moods. While Sport adds some zest to the drive, there’s only a marginal difference from Normal mode.
Maruti Grand Vitara Ride Quality and Handling
Maruti has nailed ride quality with this SUV. The suspension setup absorbs potholes gracefully while maintaining stability at high speeds. Even during sharp turns, body roll was minimal — though not entirely absent. It’s clear that this SUV prioritizes comfort over sporty handling.
For daily commutes or long family trips, the Grand Vitara delivers a plush ride that rear passengers will particularly appreciate.
Maruti Grand Vitara Fuel Efficiency
One of the standout features of the Grand Vitara is its fuel efficiency. With an ARAI-rated mileage of 27.97 kmpl for the strong hybrid version, this SUV is among the most economical in its segment. During my test drive, I found that more than half of my urban commute was covered in all-electric mode, a boon for saving fuel costs.
Maruti Grand Vitara Space and Comfort
As someone who often travels with family, space is crucial for me. The Grand Vitara doesn’t disappoint here either. Its 373-liter boot space is sufficient for luggage during weekend getaways. With rear AC vents and spacious seating for five passengers, everyone felt comfortable throughout our drive.
Maruti Grand Vitara Safety Features
Safety is non-negotiable for me when choosing a car, and Maruti has equipped the Grand Vitara well in this regard. It comes with ABS, multiple airbags (driver and passenger), hill hold assist, electronic stability control (ESC), and ISOFIX child seat mounts. These features provide peace of mind whether you’re navigating city roads or cruising on highways.
Also Read: Bajaj Pulsar NS400 Review: A First-Person Experience
Verdict: Is It Worth It?
After spending time behind the wheel of the Maruti Grand Vitara, I can confidently say it’s an excellent choice for families looking for a practical yet stylish SUV. Here’s what stood out to me:
Pros
- Impressive fuel efficiency thanks to hybrid technology
- Comfortable ride quality
- Premium features like ventilated seats and the panoramic sunroof
- Spacious cabin with ample boot space
- Sophisticated design
Cons
- CVT transmission lacks excitement during spirited driving
- Hard plastics in some areas of the interior
- The sunroof curtain could be thicker to block excess light
At ₹11.19 – ₹20.09 lakh (ex-showroom), the Grand Vitara offers great value for money considering its features and fuel efficiency. If you’re someone who values comfort, practicality, and modern tech over sporty performance, this SUV should be high on your list.
Would I buy it? Absolutely! But only if my priority were family trips or daily commutes rather than chasing thrills on highways.
So there you have it — my honest take on the Maruti Grand Vitara!
FAQ
Here are 10 FAQs about the Maruti Grand Vitara based on my hands-on experience:
1. What’s the price of the Maruti Grand Vitara?
The ex-showroom price ranges from ₹11.19 lakh to ₹20.09 lakh, depending on the variant (petrol, CNG, or strong hybrid). The strong hybrid version sits at the premium end.
2. Is the Grand Vitara a hybrid?
Yes! It offers a self-charging strong hybrid variant (co-developed with Toyota) that delivers up to 27.97 kmpl (ARAI-rated). It automatically switches between electric and petrol modes.
3. How’s the fuel efficiency?
- Strong Hybrid: 27.97 kmpl
- Petrol Manual: ~19–21 kmpl
- Petrol Automatic: ~18–20 kmpl
- CNG: ~25–26 km/kg
4. Does it have a sunroof?
Yes! The top variants feature a panoramic sunroof, though the curtain could be thicker to block sunlight more effectively.
5. What’s the boot space?
373 liters (enough for 2–3 suitcases). The hybrid battery is neatly tucked under the rear seats, so boot space isn’t compromised.
6. Is the Grand Vitara good for city driving?
Absolutely! The light steering, smooth hybrid powertrain, and compact dimensions make it ideal for traffic-heavy cities like Mumbai or Bengaluru.
7. Does it have ventilated seats?
Yes! The top-end Strong Hybrid Zeta+ and Alpha+ trims offer ventilated front seats—a lifesaver in Indian summers.
8. What safety features does it include?
- 6 Airbags (top variants)
- ABS with EBD
- Hill Hold Assist
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Rear parking sensors and camera
9. How’s the ride quality?
Plush and comfortable! The suspension absorbs potholes well, but don’t expect sporty handling. Perfect for family road trips.
10. Should I buy the hybrid or petrol version?
- Hybrid: If you want maximum fuel efficiency and don’t mind the higher upfront cost.
- Petrol: If you prefer lower maintenance costs and don’t drive long distances daily.
- CNG: For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing running costs over features.