Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Review: The Hybrid Game Changer

The Grand Vitara is Maruti’s flagship SUV. It targets the Creta and Seltos but takes a completely different approach: Efficiency and Capability. It offers two distinct personalities: the Strong Hybrid and the AWD.

📊 Key Specifications

Feature Specification
Powertrain 1.5L Intelligent Electric Hybrid (Strong)
System Power 115 PS (Combined)
Torque 122 Nm (Engine) + 141 Nm (Motor)
Transmission e-CVT
Mileage (Claimed) 27.97 kmpl
AWD Option Yes (Available in Mild Hybrid Manual)

🔋 Strong Hybrid: The Mileage Monster

The Intelligent Electric Hybrid (Toyota technology) is the star here.

  • The Drive: It starts in EV mode. In city traffic, you spend 50-60% of your time running on battery alone. It is silent, smooth, and refined.
  • The Economy: We achieved 24-25 kmpl in mixed city/highway driving. This is diesel-killing efficiency without the DPF hassles.
  • Cruising: It can cruise at 80-90 kmph with the engine off if the battery allows.

⛰️ AWD: The ‘Suzuki’ DNA

Uniquely, the Mild Hybrid Manual version offers AllGrip Select AWD.

  • Capability: It’s not a hardcore off-roader like the Thar. You won’t be rock crawling.
  • Use Case: However, for snow, slush, or rough farm roads, it is far more capable than any FWD rival (Creta/Seltos). It has modes like ‘Snow’ and ‘Lock’ which splits torque 50:50.

🛋️ Interior & Features

  • Quality: The dashboard with soft-touch leatherette feels premium giving it a rich feel.
  • Features: Panoramic Sunroof, Ventilated Seats, Wireless Charging. A slight miss is the lack of ADAS and powered seats.
  • Space: The rear seat is decent, but headroom is tight for tall passengers due to the sunroof mechanism.

🏁 Verdict

Pros Cons
✅ World-beating fuel efficiency (Strong Hybrid) ❌ Hybrid boot space is small (battery placement)
✅ AWD capability (Mild Hybrid) is unique in segment ❌ Not for enthusiasts (Strong Hybrid lacks top-end punch)
✅ Reliability of Maruti + Toyota tech ❌ Interior parts bin sharing with lower Marutis

The Verdict: The Grand Vitara is the Smartest SUV in the segment. Buy it for the mileage or the AWD. If you want 0-100 sprints, look elsewhere.