Maruti Suzuki Confirms 7-Seat Grand Vitara Hybrid SUV

Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, is set to make a significant mark in the country’s competitive SUV market with the official confirmation of a 7-seat Grand Vitara. This move signals the brand’s intent to address the growing demand among Indian families for spacious, feature-rich, and fuel-efficient three-row SUVs. The new model, codenamed Y17, is expected to hit showrooms around Diwali 2025, just in time for the festive car-buying season.

What Will the 7-Seat Grand Vitara Offer?

More Space, More Comfort

Spy shots and early details reveal that the 7-seater Grand Vitara will be noticeably longer than the current model, with a larger rear overhang and an extended quarter glass. This extra length is all about making room for the third row, which will be available in both a 6-seat (captain chair) and a 7-seat (bench) configuration. Such flexibility is likely to appeal to both joint families and those who frequently travel with friends or relatives.

Inside, expect a familiar dashboard layout but with enhancements like a bigger, free-standing touchscreen, new interior themes, and a premium audio system. Features such as a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, six airbags, and electronic stability control are expected to be standard or available on higher trims. Advanced safety tech like a 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) are also likely to be offered, setting a new benchmark for Maruti in this segment.

Engines and Driving Experience

The 7-seater Grand Vitara will continue to use Maruti’s trusted Global C platform, shared with the current model. Under the bonnet, buyers can expect two petrol-hybrid options:

• A 1.5-litre mild-hybrid engine, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

• A 1.5-litre strong-hybrid engine (sourced from Toyota), mated to an e-CVT automatic for a smoother, more efficient drive.

While the added weight of a third row may slightly affect performance and fuel economy, Maruti’s hybrid systems are known for their real-world efficiency. Owners of the current Grand Vitara regularly report impressive mileage, sometimes matching or even surpassing smaller hatchbacks. This reputation for frugality is likely to continue, making the new model a practical choice for long family trips or daily commutes.

Positioning and Pricing

Invicto will continue to be Maruti's flagship offering

Maruti plans to position the 7-seat Grand Vitara below its premium Invicto MPV, targeting a price range of around ₹15 lakh to ₹22 lakh (ex-showroom). This places it squarely in the heart of the mid-size, three-row SUV market—a segment that’s seen fierce competition and growing interest in recent years. The new model will be manufactured at Maruti’s state-of-the-art Kharkhoda plant in Haryana, which is set to become a hub for the brand’s latest innovations.

Why a 7-Seater Grand Vitara Now?

The Indian car market has seen a clear shift in buyer preferences over the past few years. More families are looking for cars that offer extra space without compromising on style, comfort, or technology. While Maruti’s current Grand Vitara has found favour as a five-seater, rivals like the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, and MG Hector Plus have been attracting buyers with their three-row offerings. Maruti’s answer is a stretched, more accommodating Grand Vitara that promises to blend practicality with the brand’s trusted reliability.

How Does It Stack Up Against Rivals?

The 7-seat Grand Vitara will compete directly with established players like the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, and MG Hector Plus. Each of these rivals brings its own strengths, whether it’s the Alcazar’s feature list, the Safari’s road presence, or the XUV700’s tech-laden cabin. Maruti’s edge will likely come from its hybrid technology, fuel efficiency, and the peace of mind that comes with a vast service network. It will be interesting to see if Maruti tunes the engine for more power—the current set-up might be frugal but feels a bit underpowered. That—lack of adequate power—if not addressed, would be even more evident in the bigger and heavier Vitara.

The Road Ahead

With the 7-seat Grand Vitara, Maruti Suzuki is not just filling a gap in its lineup—it’s responding to the evolving needs of Indian car buyers. By combining extra space with efficient hybrid powertrains and modern features, Maruti aims to offer a practical alternative for families who want more space without paying a premium. As the festive season of 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on this new SUV to see if it can continue Maruti’s legacy of delivering what Indian families truly want from their cars.