Maruti Suzuki Victoris

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris makes an impactful first impression with its sharp design. Borrowing cues from the upcoming e-Vitara and the Brezza, it features segmented LED DRLs, a chiseled bumper, and squared-off wheel arches with plastic cladding, giving it a muscular stance. The dual-tone 17-inch alloys and a blacked-out roof further enhance its appeal. The raked rear windscreen adds a coupe-like vibe, though the rear design, with its LED lightbar and flat tailgate, is less cohesive. Based on the Suzuki Tect platform (shared with the Grand Vitara), the Victoris measures 4360mm in length, 1795mm in width, and 1655mm in height, making it nearly identical in dimensions to its sibling.

Inside, the Victoris stands out with a fresh dashboard design and a choice of two upholstery options. The petrol and CNG versions feature ivory and black upholstery with silver accents, while the strong hybrid offers all-black with rose gold highlights. The cabin quality feels superior, with soft-touch materials and ambient lighting. The front seats are comfortable, offering good support, but rear-seat space is a tight squeeze for taller passengers or three adults. However, the high seating position and panoramic sunroof improve the sense of space. Practicality is good, with generous door bins, wireless charging, and a spacious glovebox. The boot capacity varies depending on the version, with the strong hybrid featuring a raised floor due to its battery pack. A spare tyre is not included, though buyers can opt for one at purchase.

The Victoris packs in a host of features, including a new 10.1-inch Smartplay Pro X touchscreen, a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, and Level 2 ADAS features. The ZXI+ variant comes with ventilated front seats, a powered driver’s seat, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and connected car tech. For safety, the SUV is equipped with six airbags, traction control, brake assist, hill hold control, ISOFIX anchors, and more. The higher trims also feature a tyre pressure monitoring system, and the Victoris boasts a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP. The Level 2 ADAS (petrol AT only), which includes lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control, works well in Indian conditions.

The Victoris offers a range of powertrain options: a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol, a 1.5-litre CNG, and a 1.5-litre strong hybrid. The 1.5 petrol engine produces 103hp and 139Nm, which is adequate for city driving but lacks punch for quick overtakes. The AWD version, with its 6-speed automatic and AllGrip system, delivers strong off-road capability, with modes for different conditions. The standout powertrain is the strong hybrid, with a combined output of 116hp, offering smooth, seamless driving in EV mode and a refined driving experience in hybrid mode. Despite excellent refinement, tyre and road noise are noticeable at higher speeds.

The Victoris offers impressive fuel efficiency, particularly with the strong hybrid, which delivers a claimed 28.65 kpl (ARAI). The AWD version is also efficient, returning 19.07 kpl. This makes the Victoris more fuel-efficient than the Grand Vitara, thanks to improved aerodynamics and low rolling resistance tyres.

The Victoris strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The ride is slightly firm, especially on the strong hybrid, but it handles rough roads and higher speeds with composure. The suspension operates quietly, and the steering is light and direct, offering good agility in corners. Overall, the SUV delivers a pleasant driving experience with minimal body roll and good road manners.

Priced competitively between Rs 10.49 lakh and Rs 19.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the Victoris offers great value for money. While it may not have the punchy diesel or turbo-petrol engines of some rivals, its efficient powertrains, feature-packed interior, and strong safety credentials make it a compelling choice. Its ride and handling, along with Maruti's widespread service network, further enhance its appeal. The Victoris may not be flashy, but it’s a solid family-oriented SUV that competes strongly with the Hyundai Creta.