Maruti Suzuki has announced prices for its new midsize SUV contender, the Grand Vitara, which arrives with multiple as well as segment-unique powertrain options. On offer are mild hybrids, a strong hybrid, and even an all-wheel-drive version, and prices range between Rs 10.45 lakh-19.65 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
And while the all-wheel-drive variant will not account for a significant volume – Maruti says 7 to 8 percent of the bookings are for the All-Grip version – the carmaker is confident that the Grand Vitara will make a big splash in the market despite missing a diesel option.
Speaking to Autocar India, Shashank Srivastava, executive director, Sales & Marketing, Maruti Suzuki, says, “Overall sales of the Grand Vitara will swing the entire segment to petrol, just like the Brezza did with compact SUVs.”
Technically, Brezza's sales did dip in the switch from diesel-only to petrol-only power in 2020, however, sales recovered over time. Last month, the new Brezza even topped the SUV charts.
Toyota Hyryder mild-hybrid price announcement in early October
SUV sales trends
Sales in the compact SUV segment are also sliding towards petrol, but in the midsize SUV segment, diesel still remains a popular choice. Diesel variants account for segment champ Hyundai Creta’s 60 percent sales. So, toppling the Creta from its top perch will be no easy task.
Moreover, besides the diesel, the Creta and its sibling Kia Seltos have the option of a turbo-petrol, thus catering to those looking for a punchy and performance-driven SUV.
Maruti is clearly banking on its time-tested calling card – mileage. And with the mileage potentially exceeding that of a diesel, as well as the pricing being within the ballpark, the strong hybrid Grand Vitara could be the answer to the diesel midsize SUVs.
Do you think the Grand Vitara will be able to take on rivals Creta and Seltos? Let us know in the comments below.
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