Maruti Suzuki India, the nation’s leading carmaker, unveiled its latest mid-size SUV, the Victoris, on Wednesday, aiming to strengthen its foothold in the rapidly growing mid-size SUV segment. The launch expands Maruti’s SUV portfolio, which already includes models like the Fronx, Brezza, Jimny, and Grand Vitara.

At the launch event, Maruti Suzuki India MD and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi highlighted the company’s focus on India’s youth, the world’s largest demographic, as key drivers of growth. “The Indian automobile industry is evolving with a new generation of customers. The Victoris raises the bar in the SUV segment, catering to the aspirations of young India,” Takeuchi said.

The Victoris introduces cutting-edge features, including Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and lane departure prevention—making it Maruti’s first vehicle in India to offer this technology. The SUV also boasts a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, six airbags, a 360-degree camera, and a Dolby Atmos audio system, positioning it as a premium offering.

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Built on Suzuki’s Global C platform, the Victoris is positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara in Maruti’s lineup. It offers multiple powertrain options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (103 hp), a 1.5-litre strong hybrid (116 hp), and a CNG variant (89 hp) with an innovative underbody tank for enhanced boot space. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and e-CVT for the hybrid.

Takeuchi noted the rising popularity of SUVs, with their contribution to Maruti’s sales growing from 8.9% in FY 20-21 to nearly 28% in FY 24-25. The mid-size SUV market, currently at 9.5 lakh units annually, accounts for 40% of India’s SUV segment. Maruti has solidified its leadership in the entry-SUV market with Brezza and Fronx and now aims to capture the mid-size segment with Victoris, which will compete against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate.

While pricing remains undisclosed, Maruti Suzuki invested ₹1,240 crore in the Victoris’s development. The SUV will be produced at the company’s Kharkhoda plant and exported to over 100 global markets. Sold through Maruti’s Arena dealership network, the Victoris targets a distinct customer base from the Nexa-sold Grand Vitara, ensuring minimal overlap. Bookings are open for ₹11,000, with prices expected to range between ₹10.5 lakh and ₹18.5 lakh (ex-showroom).

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