Maruti Suzuki has officially begun bookings for its upcoming mid-size SUV, the Maruti Victorious. Touted as India’s most affordable SUV in its category, the Victorious will directly take on established models like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The SUV is expected to launch around Diwali 2025, with prices likely starting from ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom). Customers can now pre-book the model across Maruti’s Arena dealerships by paying a token amount of ₹11,000.

The Victorious will be offered in four trims – LXI, VXI, ZXI, and ZXI+. While official prices will be revealed at the time of launch, the SUV has already created buzz for its competitive positioning in the mid-size SUV space.

• 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol, producing 103 bhp.

• 1.5-litre strong-hybrid petrol, delivering 116 bhp.

• 1.5-litre petrol-CNG, generating 89 bhp.

Transmission choices will vary across trims, with a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and an e-CVT gearbox on offer.

Fuel efficiency has always been a strong suit for Maruti, and the Victorious continues this trend. According to ARAI-certified figures:

• Petrol manual variants deliver 21.18 km/l.

• Petrol automatic variants return 21.06 km/l.

• AWD petrol automatic offers 19.07 km/l.

• Strong-hybrid model boasts a class-leading 28.65 km/l.

• CNG-powered variant delivers 27.02 km/kg.

Interestingly, except for the AWD automatic, all versions of the Victorious claim better mileage than the Grand Vitara, despite sharing the same powertrain and curb weight.

Maruti has equipped the Victorious with a long list of modern features to appeal to urban buyers. Standard and mid-level trims include:

• Auto climate control with rear AC vents.

• Type-A USB ports and cabin air filter.

• Hill-hold assist and traction control system (TCS).

• Rear parking sensors, ESP, and up to 6 airbags.

These inclusions make even the base trims attractive for budget-conscious buyers looking for safety and convenience.

Higher trims of the SUV will offer segment-leading technology and comfort features such as:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with connected tech.

• 10.25-inch fully digital driver display.

• 8-speaker Infinity sound system with Dolby Atmos surround sound.

• Ventilated front seats and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.

• Head-up display (HUD) for easy driving information access.

• Air purifier and 64-color ambient lighting.

• Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel for a premium cabin feel.

For buyers opting for the AWD variant, Maruti offers additional features like terrain modes, hill descent control, and front parking sensors.

The Victorious will also boast segment-first safety and driver assistance features, including:

• 360-degree camera system.

• Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for enhanced road safety.

• Crash protection systems with multiple alerts and driver aids.

With its affordable entry price, high fuel efficiency, and premium features, the Maruti Victorious is expected to shake up the mid-size SUV segment. Positioned below the Grand Vitara but offering similar performance, it is set to be a strong competitor to the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, and Toyota Hyryder.