Maruti Victoris

Engines, mileage, and running cost

The Victoris offers three powertrain choices, each targeting a different buyer priority. The 1.5L K15C Smart Hybrid petrol produces 103.06 PS and 139 Nm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. ARAI-claimed efficiency is 21.18 km/l (MT) and 21.06 km/l (AT) — competitive for a naturally aspirated 1.5L in this class. The AllGrip Select AWD variant, available only with the automatic, returns a claimed 19.07 km/l.

The Petrol+CNG variant uses the same K15C block, delivering 100.6 PS / 137.1 Nm on petrol and 87.8 PS / 121.5 Nm on CNG. Its standout feature is the segment-first underbody S-CNG tank (55 L water equivalent), which means the boot space remains completely uncompromised — a first in the Indian CNG SUV space. Claimed CNG efficiency is 27.02 km/kg, making per-kilometre running costs exceptionally low.

The Strong Hybrid variant pairs the 1.5L petrol with an AC Synchronous Motor and a battery pack, producing a combined 92.45 PS and 122 Nm, driven through an eCVT with ECO, Normal, and Power modes. Its ARAI-certified 28.65 km/l makes it the most fuel-efficient SUV in India by official rating. Maruti is offering benefits of up to ₹1.35 lakh on the Strong Hybrid in September 2026, further sweetening the running-cost equation.

Performance and drive

The Smart Hybrid petrol is adequate for urban commuting and relaxed highway cruising. With 103 PS on tap, it handles city traffic with ease, but Autocar India notes that with a full load of passengers and luggage, overtakes on the highway require planning — the naturally aspirated engine lacks the low-end punch of turbocharged rivals like the Kia Seltos 1.5T or Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI. Real-world mileage in mixed conditions has been reported at around 13.69 km/l, so buyers expecting ARAI figures in daily use should calibrate expectations.

The Strong Hybrid's eCVT delivers a noticeably smoother, quieter experience, with the ability to creep in near-silent EV mode at low speeds — a genuine urban advantage. The Power mode sharpens throttle response for highway merges. The AllGrip Select AWD system on the automatic petrol adds selectable terrain modes for soft-roading and slippery surfaces, making the Victoris one of the few mid-size SUVs under ₹20 lakh to offer genuine four-wheel traction.

The Victoris rides on a monocoque platform with a 2,600 mm wheelbase and a 5.4 m turning radius — the latter making it surprisingly nimble in tight city parking. Suspension tuning is reported to lean toward comfort, which suits Indian road conditions well.

Cabin, space, and tech

Step inside and the Victoris makes a strong first impression with its three-layer dashboard, dual-tone interiors, and 64-colour ambient lighting. The 10.1-inch Smartplay Pro X touchscreen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and is complemented by a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The Infinity by Harman speaker system with Dolby Atmos Spatial Sound is a segment-first feature that audiophiles will appreciate.

The panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and Smart Powered Tailgate with Gesture Control are reserved for higher ZXi+ trims. Alexa Auto Voice AI supports over 40 features, and the in-built application store carries 35+ apps. Next Gen Suzuki Connect includes remote operations, cabin PM 2.5 monitoring, smartwatch connectivity, and an E-Call emergency feature.

With a 4,360 mm length and 2,600 mm wheelbase, rear-seat space is generous for a five-seater. Boot space is rated at 265 litres — respectable for the class, and notably the CNG variant does not sacrifice any of this thanks to the underbody tank placement. The 45-litre petrol tank (55 L water equivalent for CNG) ensures reasonable range between fill-ups.

Safety and ADAS

The Victoris has earned a 5-star rating in Bharat NCAP crash testing, and Autocar India also notes a 5-star Global NCAP score — making it only the second Maruti Suzuki model to achieve this distinction. Six airbags (front, side, and curtain) are standard across the range. The Suzuki TECT high-strength steel platform underpins the body structure.

The Advanced Level 2 ADAS suite is a segment milestone for Maruti — it is the brand's first car to offer this level of driver assistance. The suite includes forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and highway assist functions. Additional safety hardware includes a 360° View HD Camera with 11 views, Front Parking Assist Sensor with auto 360° camera activation, Electronic Parking Brake with Brake Hold, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program, Hill Hold Assist, and all-wheel disc brakes.

Variants and pricing

The Victoris is available in six trim levels: LXi, VXi, ZXi, ZXi (O), ZXi+, and ZXi+ (O), spanning 21 variants in total when powertrain and transmission combinations are counted. Ex-showroom prices range from ₹10.50 lakh for the base LXi petrol MT to ₹19.99 lakh for the top-spec ZXi+ (O) Strong Hybrid eCVT dual-tone. The LXi is available only with the petrol MT; all other trims add the automatic option. The ZXi+ AT gets the AllGrip AWD option, and the Strong Hybrid is available on ZXi and above.

In September 2026, Maruti is offering benefits of up to ₹1.35 lakh on the Strong Hybrid and up to ₹85,000 on petrol and CNG variants, comprising cash discounts, exchange/scrappage bonuses, loyalty benefits, and institutional discounts. The Victoris crossed 1 lakh cumulative sales in June 2026, underscoring strong market acceptance.

How it compares

Against the Hyundai Creta, the Victoris undercuts on price at the entry level and counters with the Strong Hybrid's class-leading 28.65 km/l versus the Creta's best of around 20 km/l. The Kia Seltos offers a turbocharged petrol option for more performance, but lacks a strong hybrid and AWD at this price. The Honda Elevate is closely matched on space and features but does not offer AWD or a strong hybrid. The Tata Sierra brings a distinctive design and EV option (profiled separately on evindexindia.com), but the Victoris leads on fuel efficiency and ADAS depth. The Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun offer turbocharged engines with more punch but no hybrid or CNG options.

Who should buy it

The Victoris is the right choice for buyers who prioritise low running costs above all else — the Strong Hybrid's 28.65 km/l ARAI figure is unmatched in the segment, and the CNG variant's underbody tank means no boot compromise. Families who cover high annual mileage on highways will find the hybrid's efficiency pays back the premium over the petrol in a reasonable timeframe. Buyers wanting genuine all-terrain capability without moving to a body-on-frame SUV will appreciate the AllGrip AWD option. Those seeking a turbocharged performance feel or a diesel option should look at the Seltos or Creta instead.