Newly-Launched Maruti Victoris Races Past 25,000 Bookings: Waiting Periods Hit 10 Weeks

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris has made a strong market entrance, gathering over 25,000 bookings within the first two weeks of its launch. This initial surge in demand has pushed waiting periods to as long as 10 weeks for certain variants.

With deliveries now underway through the Arena dealership network, the first lot of customers are getting their vehicles, but new buyers are being quoted these extended timelines.

The booking amount was set at a nominal ₹11,000, making it easy for potential buyers to get in line for the new mid-size SUV. The immediate demand suggests that the Victoris's combination of pricing, features, and powertrain options has resonated with buyers looking for a credible alternative in a segment dominated by established Korean rivals.

What's Driving Demand?

A key factor behind the strong initial interest is the aggressive and wide-ranging price structure. The Victoris starts at an introductory price of ₹10.50 lakh and goes up to ₹19.99 lakh for the top-spec model, ex-showroom. This positions it directly against the likes of Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

The range is spread across six distinct trims: LXI, VXI, ZXI, ZXI (O), ZXI+, and ZXI+ (O). This strategy allows Maruti to cater to a broad spectrum of buyers, from those looking for a basic, spacious SUV to those wanting a fully-loaded vehicle with all the modern conveniences.

The feature list on higher trims is comprehensive, including a large 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360-degree camera. This extensive equipment list helps neutralise the advantage that competitors have historically held in terms of features.

An Engine for Every Need

The Victoris offers a powertrain for almost every type of buyer, a classic Maruti strategy to maximise market coverage. The range includes three engine choices. First is the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, available with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

This engine is the workhorse of the range, offering a balance of performance and affordability. Uniquely in this segment, the manual petrol version can also be had with the AllGrip all-wheel-drive system, a feature that will appeal to buyers in hilly regions or those who want the added security of AWD.

Second is the 1.5-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine paired with an e-CVT automatic. This is the efficiency champion of the line-up, aimed at city-based buyers who prioritise low running costs and a smooth drive. Finally, there is a factory-fitted CNG option, a first for this segment. This is targeted squarely at high-mileage users who want the absolute lowest running costs possible, without resorting to aftermarket solutions.

Safety Takes Centre Stage

Maruti has made a significant statement on safety with the Victoris. The SUV has achieved a 5-star safety rating in crash tests conducted by both Global NCAP. This makes it one of the safest vehicles in its class and addresses a long-standing criticism of some of the brand’s other products.

The standard safety equipment across all variants includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Higher variants add to this with a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.

This strong focus on safety, backed by credible crash test results, is a major selling point and helps build confidence among buyers who are increasingly prioritising vehicle safety. The combination of active and passive safety features puts the Victoris on par with, or even ahead of, its main competitors.

Ultimately, the strong initial booking numbers are a clear win for Maruti. They indicate that the company has done its homework and delivered a product that ticks the right boxes for a large number of buyers. While the 10-week waiting period is a challenge, it's a good problem to have, as it signals strong and sustained interest.

The real test will come in the months ahead, as Maruti works to ramp up production and get cars into the hands of customers. If the company can manage the supply chain effectively and maintain the quality of the vehicle, the Victoris has the potential to seriously disrupt the mid-size SUV segment and challenge the long-standing leaders.