The 2025 Maruti Grand Vitara continues its mission to combine urban sophistication with practicality and remarkable efficiency. As India’s SUV market grows more competitive, the Grand Vitara aims to lead the charge with hybrid technology, refined driving dynamics, and improved features. We took the new model through varied driving conditions to evaluate its real-world performance, fuel economy, and overall driving character.
Maruti Grand Vitara 2025 Drive Review
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2025 |
| Fuel Options | Petrol, Strong Hybrid |
| Engine Types | 1.5L K15C Mild-Hybrid / 1.5L TNGA Strong-Hybrid |
| Power Output | 103 bhp (Mild-Hybrid) / 114 bhp (Strong-Hybrid combined) |
| Transmission | 5-Speed MT, 6-Speed AT, e-CVT |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 20.5 km/l (Mild-Hybrid), 28 km/l (Strong-Hybrid) |
| Drive Layout | FWD (Hybrid), AWD (Petrol MT Only) |
| Standout Features | e-CVT, Heads-Up Display, 360° Camera, Panoramic Sunroof |
| Price Range (Ex-Showroom) | ₹10.99 – ₹19.99 lakh |
| Official Website | marutisuzuki.com |
Exterior and Design – Balanced and Modern
The Grand Vitara 2025 carries forward the same design foundation as the outgoing model but with minor cosmetic tweaks that subtly enhance its appeal. It retains its bold stance, upright profile, and neatly sculpted lines. The triple-dot LED DRLs and chrome-lined grille keep it instantly recognizable on the road. New dual-tone color schemes and refreshed alloy designs contribute to a slightly more premium look. Ground clearance remains an SUV-friendly 210 mm, and proportions stay compact enough for tight urban use while still offering a strong presence.
Interior Quality and Comfort – Elevated but Familiar
Inside, the cabin continues to emphasize usability and comfort. The dual-tone dashboard, soft-touch surfaces, and fabric-leatherette seat upholstery on top trims give a decent premium feel. Maruti has focused on comfort with ventilated front seats, rear AC vents, and a reclinable rear bench. Space remains a strong point, especially in the second row, though taller passengers may find headroom a bit limited under the panoramic sunroof. Boot space in the strong-hybrid variant is 373L due to battery packaging, while mild-hybrid variants offer more flexibility.
Tech features include:
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9-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
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Heads-Up Display (HUD)
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Arkamys-tuned sound system
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Wireless phone charging and Suzuki Connect with remote operations
Engine Performance – Calm, Capable, and Predictable
The Grand Vitara comes with two engine choices. The mild-hybrid 1.5L petrol is smooth but not very eager. It’s best suited for city commuting and light cruising. Power delivery is gradual and linear, ideal for relaxed driving. The 5-speed manual offers good control, while the 6-speed torque converter automatic adds convenience.
The strong-hybrid variant is more impressive. With an electric motor and a 1.5L Atkinson cycle petrol engine, it delivers a seamless and refined experience. The e-CVT transmission prioritizes smoothness over punch, and the transition between electric and petrol power is nearly imperceptible. It’s quiet, composed, and shines in urban stop-go traffic, where electric-only mode kicks in frequently.
On highways, it cruises steadily but runs out of breath when pushed hard. Still, the hybrid system does well to prioritize efficiency and comfort over outright performance.
Driving Dynamics – Stable and City-Friendly
Maruti has tuned the Grand Vitara’s suspension for a balanced ride. It absorbs potholes and rough patches well, with minimal cabin disturbance. The steering is light, which is great for city use but lacks feedback at higher speeds. High-speed stability is decent, though body roll is evident during quick turns.
The AWD variant, available only in the mild-hybrid manual, adds extra grip in tough conditions but doesn’t turn the SUV into an off-roader. It’s a nice-to-have for hilly or slippery terrain, not a necessity for city dwellers.
Fuel Efficiency – The Main Showstopper
Mileage is where the Grand Vitara 2025 truly excels. Maruti claims 28 km/l for the strong hybrid, and during our test, we managed around 24–25 km/l in mixed conditions. Short city runs often saw it hover in EV-only mode, with the petrol engine barely firing up.
The mild-hybrid variant returned 17–18 km/l in real-world driving, still respectable given the car’s size and weight. This focus on efficiency makes it one of the most economical SUVs to run, especially in urban traffic.
Features and Safety – Well Equipped but No ADAS Yet
The SUV ticks most of the feature boxes expected in this price range. Top variants come with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, rear parking sensors, and a 360° camera. While some rivals like the Seltos and Elevate now offer ADAS, Maruti has kept the Grand Vitara focused on proven safety basics.
The HUD is crisp and helps reduce distraction, and the infotainment system has improved in responsiveness. Connected car features allow remote engine start, geo-fencing, trip tracking, and more through the Suzuki Connect app.
Pricing and Variants – Hybrid Value with ICE Options
Maruti offers a wide range of variants starting from the base Sigma trim to the range-topping Alpha+ Hybrid. Prices span ₹10.99 lakh to ₹19.99 lakh (ex-showroom). While hybrid trims carry a noticeable premium, they make sense for those prioritizing long-term savings through better mileage and lower fuel costs. For buyers focused more on upfront cost, the Delta and Zeta mild-hybrid trims strike a good balance of value and features.
Verdict – Efficient, Comfortable, and Urban-Ready
The 2025 Maruti Grand Vitara isn’t trying to be the most powerful SUV or the most tech-loaded. It’s focused, efficient, and easy to live with. The hybrid system is its biggest strength, offering real-world savings without sacrificing comfort or refinement. While some enthusiasts may crave more performance or ADAS features, the Grand Vitara is built for sensible buyers who value fuel savings, city-friendliness, and reliability. If that sounds like you, it delivers exactly what’s needed — and little is wasted.
FAQ
Is there any change in the engine specs for the 2025 model?
No major changes in engine specs. The same mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid setups continue with slight tuning improvements.
Does the hybrid variant support fast charging?
No, it is a self-charging hybrid. It recharges via regenerative braking and the engine.
Can the strong hybrid run purely on electric mode?
Yes, but only for short distances and low-speed driving, ideal for stop-go traffic.
Which variant offers AWD?
Only the mild-hybrid manual transmission variant comes with AWD.
Is it suitable for long-distance highway drives?
Yes, especially the mild-hybrid automatic and strong hybrid variants offer a comfortable and stable experience for highway use.
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