Maruti Suzuki is currently testing a new 7-seater SUV, inspired by the e-Vitara, with an expected launch date in late 2025 or early 2026. This new offering is likely to share its platform and powertrains with the Grand Vitara but will feature a longer wheelbase to accommodate the third row of seats. The SUV will compete with established models like the Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra Scorpio-N, and MG Hector Plus, and will be produced at Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming Kharkhoda plant in Haryana, set to commence operations in 2025.
Maruti Suzuki’s Premium SUV Strategy
Traditionally known for its dominance in the small car segment, Maruti Suzuki has recently shifted its focus towards building premium cars for higher segments. The company made its foray into the mid-size SUV segment in 2022 with the Grand Vitara, marking a significant move to expand its SUV lineup. The upcoming 7-seater SUV aims to further strengthen Maruti’s presence in the highly competitive SUV market.
Maruti Suzuki’s strategy is clear: capture a significant share of the premium SUV segment, where buyers are increasingly seeking versatile vehicles for family and urban usage. By offering a third row of seats, Maruti aims to meet the needs of larger families who prefer an SUV’s spaciousness and modern features. This new SUV, codenamed Y17, will not only target existing Grand Vitara customers looking for an upgrade but also attract new buyers in the premium SUV space.
Codenamed Y17: Grand Vitara’s Larger Sibling
Reports from last year indicated that Maruti Suzuki has been working on a 7-seater derivative of the Grand Vitara, codenamed Y17. Spy photos of the test mule have recently surfaced, showing a heavily camouflaged vehicle undergoing testing. Despite the covers, familiar design elements such as door contours, window lines, and mirror placement suggest that the new model is indeed a derivative of the Grand Vitara. However, a longer rear section and extended wheelbase confirm the addition of a third row of seats.
The addition of the extra row makes this new model Maruti Suzuki’s most spacious SUV to date. Industry experts believe the longer wheelbase will offer better interior room and comfort, a key consideration for families. The extended size will also differentiate it clearly from the 5-seater Grand Vitara while maintaining Maruti Suzuki’s design DNA.
Powertrains and Features
The new SUV is expected to share the Grand Vitara’s existing powertrain options, which include the 1.5-liter petrol engine and the strong hybrid petrol engine. To accommodate the additional row of seats, Maruti is likely to tweak the hybrid setup to optimize boot space without compromising efficiency.
While the overall exterior design draws cues from the Grand Vitara, the SUV also incorporates elements from the recently unveiled e-Vitara, showcased at EICMA 2024. Notable design highlights include:
- Three-dot LED DRLs positioned above the main headlamps, which are integrated into a sculpted front bumper with central air intakes.
- A bold and dynamic rear design featuring sleek, full-width LED taillights.
The extended platform may also allow Maruti Suzuki to introduce advanced safety features such as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), ensuring the SUV meets global safety standards and appeals to safety-conscious buyers.
Fresh Interior Design
A sneak peek into the cabin reveals significant upgrades compared to the 5-seater Grand Vitara. The new 7-seater SUV boasts a modern and spacious cabin, with features like:
- A large, vertical free-standing touchscreen infotainment system.
- Chrome-embellished air vents integrated into an all-new dashboard layout.
- Premium upholstery options, offering enhanced comfort for long journeys.
- Redesigned center console and updated steering wheel, adding to the upscale feel.
With an emphasis on passenger comfort, the third row is expected to provide ample legroom and headroom, ensuring it is usable for adults on shorter journeys. Maruti Suzuki may also include dedicated rear air-conditioning vents, cup holders, and USB charging ports for added convenience.
These enhancements aim to deliver a more premium and tech-focused experience, appealing to families and urban buyers seeking a versatile, feature-rich SUV.
Launch Timeline and Pricing
The 7-seater Maruti Suzuki SUV is expected to debut in late 2025 or early 2026. Positioned above the current Grand Vitara, it will likely command a higher price point. For context, the Grand Vitara currently ranges between Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 20.09 lakh (ex-showroom). Industry insiders expect the 7-seater version to start around Rs 12 lakh and go up to Rs 22 lakh, depending on variants and features.
Maruti Suzuki’s pricing strategy is likely to be competitive, undercutting rivals like the Hyundai Alcazar and Mahindra Scorpio-N while offering a strong value proposition with its modern hybrid powertrains and advanced features.
Production Plans
Production of the new 7-seater SUV will take place at Maruti Suzuki’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kharkhoda, Haryana. This plant is scheduled to begin operations in 2025, enabling Maruti Suzuki to scale production and meet the growing demand for premium SUVs in India.
The new plant, spread across 800 acres, will play a critical role in Maruti’s production plans, featuring advanced automation and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. This facility will cater to both domestic and export markets, solidifying Maruti Suzuki’s position as a global automotive leader.