Maruti Suzuki Victoris Review: The All-New SUV That Changes the Game
Maruti Suzuki has unveiled the Victoris, an all-new flagship compact SUV for its Arena dealership chain that marks a significant leap forward for the brand in technology, safety, and powertrain diversity[250]. Positioned as a highly versatile and premium offering, the Victoris is engineered to cater to every need with its three distinct powertrain options: a refined Strong Hybrid, an innovative underbody S-CNG, and the proven Smart Hybrid petrol engine with ALLGRIP SELECT AWD[249][252]. Combining a futuristic design, a feature-packed interior, and the landmark achievement of being the first Maruti Suzuki to offer a Level 2 ADAS suite, the Victoris is not just a new car—it’s a statement of intent[250].
Key Features: A New Era of Technology and Safety
The Victoris is loaded with segment-leading technology for a modern driving experience.
Level 2 ADAS Suite:
As the first Maruti Suzuki to feature a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System, the Victoris offers enhanced safety and convenience on the road[250][251].
Futuristic Strong Hybrid:
The advanced strong hybrid system with an e-CVT delivers an exceptionally smooth, silent, and efficient drive with a class-leading mileage of 28.65 km/l[249][251].
Underbody S-CNG Tank:
A revolutionary twin-tank underbody placement for the S-CNG variant frees up the entire boot space, a first for a Maruti Suzuki CNG vehicle[250].
ALLGRIP SELECT AWD:
The available all-wheel drive system adapts seamlessly to challenging terrains, offering enhanced traction and stability on slippery roads or trails[249][254].
10.25-inch Digital Cockpit:
Features a large 10.1-inch SmartPlay Pro X touchscreen and a premium 10.25-inch fully digital driver’s display for an immersive, high-tech cabin experience[250][251].
5-Star B-NCAP Safety Rating:
Built on the high-strength Suzuki TECT platform, the Victoris has achieved a full 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, ensuring complete peace of mind[250][251].
Panoramic Sunroof:
Enhances the sense of space and luxury within the cabin, allowing passengers to enjoy an open, airy ambiance on every journey[250].
Alexa Auto Voice AI:
Stay seamlessly connected with over 40 built-in Alexa features, allowing for intuitive, hands-free control over various vehicle functions[251].
Ventilated Front Seats:
Provides enhanced comfort for the driver and front passenger, especially during long drives or in hot weather conditions[250].
Competitive Edge: What Sets It Apart
The Victoris redefines its segment with several key advantages over its rivals:
- Unmatched Powertrain Diversity: No other competitor offers the choice of a petrol mild-hybrid, a full strong hybrid, an S-CNG, and an AWD system all within a single model lineup. This gives the Victoris the unique ability to cater to every type of buyer, from the efficiency-focused to the off-road adventurer.
- No-Compromise CNG Solution: The underbody twin-tank S-CNG setup is a true game-changer. It solves the biggest drawback of CNG cars—the loss of boot space—making the Victoris the only vehicle in its class to offer the low running costs of CNG without sacrificing practicality.
- Democratization of Advanced Safety: By offering a Level 2 ADAS suite and achieving a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, the Victoris brings a new level of safety technology and assurance to the mainstream compact SUV segment, a domain where such features are often reserved for more expensive vehicles.
- The ALLGRIP SELECT Advantage: While some rivals offer AWD, Maruti’s ALLGRIP SELECT is a sophisticated and proven system that provides tangible benefits in challenging terrains, giving the Victoris a genuine capability advantage for adventurous buyers.
Full Specifications: Maruti Suzuki Victoris
Engine & Powertrain
- Smart Hybrid Engine:1.5L K15C Petrol (1462cc)[253]
- Smart Hybrid Power:103 PS / 75.8 kW[250]
- Smart Hybrid Torque:137 Nm[250]
- Strong Hybrid Engine:1.5L Petrol (1490cc)[251]
- Strong Hybrid Combined Power:116 PS[250]
- Strong Hybrid Torque (Engine):122 Nm[249]
- S-CNG Engine:1.5L Petrol (1462cc)[253]
- S-CNG Power:88 PS / 64.6 kW[249][250]
- S-CNG Torque:121.5 Nm[249][250]
- Transmission Options:5-Speed MT, 6-Speed AT (TC), e-CVT[250]
- Drivetrain:FWD & ALLGRIP SELECT AWD[254]
Dimensions & Capacity
- Length:4,360 mm[252][253]
- Width:1,795 mm[252][253]
- Height:1,655 mm[252][253]
- Wheelbase:2,600 mm[254]
- Seating Capacity:5[253]
- Fuel Tank Capacity:45 Litres[253]
Fuel Efficiency (ARAI Certified)
- Petrol MT:21.18 km/l[249][251]
- Petrol AT:21.06 km/l[249]
- Petrol ALLGRIP AT:19.07 km/l[249]
- Strong Hybrid e-CVT:28.65 km/l[249][251]
- S-CNG MT:27.02 km/kg[249][251]
Performance Analysis: Strengths and Weaknesses
Pros: What We Love
- Unprecedented Choice of Powertrains: The sheer variety—from a highly efficient Strong Hybrid to a practical CNG and a capable AWD—is a major advantage.
- Top-Tier Safety Features: The combination of a 5-star B-NCAP rating, six standard airbags, and a Level 2 ADAS suite makes it a leader in its class for safety.
- Modern and Feature-Rich Cabin: With a large digital cockpit, panoramic sunroof, and premium features, the interior feels modern and luxurious.
Cons: Points for Consideration
- Familiar Powertrain Performance: While diverse, the engine options are shared with the Grand Vitara, so existing owners won’t find a significant power upgrade.
- Complex Variant Lineup: With six broad variants and multiple powertrain combinations, the extensive lineup could be confusing for some buyers.
- Design May Not Be for Everyone: The futuristic, sharp styling with pixel-patterned LEDs is bold and may not appeal to those who prefer a more conventional SUV look.
Who Should Buy The Victoris?
The Maruti Suzuki Victoris is a fantastic choice for:
- The Modern Family: Buyers seeking a single vehicle that can do it all, offering top-notch safety, practicality, and the latest technology.
- The Efficiency-Conscious Buyer: The Strong Hybrid and S-CNG models provide exceptionally low running costs without compromising on features or space.
- The Tech-Savvy Driver: Individuals who want the latest automotive tech, including a large digital interface, connected car features, and advanced driver aids like ADAS.
Who Might Consider Other Options?
You may want to look at a different vehicle if:
- You Crave High-Performance Driving: The powertrain options are tuned for efficiency and refinement, not outright acceleration or sporty dynamics.
- You Prefer a Simple, No-Frills Vehicle: The Victoris is packed with technology, which might be overwhelming for buyers who want a more basic, traditional SUV.
- You Are on a Strict Budget: As a flagship Arena product with many features, top-end variants will be priced at a premium compared to other compact SUVs.
Final Verdict: A Segment-Defining SUV for the Modern Indian Buyer
The Maruti Suzuki Victoris is unequivocally a landmark product for the brand. It addresses nearly every demand of the contemporary SUV buyer with a masterful blend of technology, safety, and powertrain choice. The decision to offer everything from an ultra-efficient Strong Hybrid to a practical, no-compromise CNG and a capable AWD in one nameplate is a brilliant strategic move. By backing this versatility with a 5-star safety rating and a segment-first Level 2 ADAS, Maruti Suzuki has crafted a vehicle that is not only desirable but also deeply reassuring. The Victoris isn’t just a new SUV; it’s a comprehensive, thoughtfully engineered solution that sets a new benchmark for what a mainstream compact SUV can and should be.
Overall Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)