GOOD FOR: Smooth powertrains, ride comfort

LOOK OUT FOR: Infotainment issues, cabin heating

Maruti Suzuki launched the Grand Vitara in 2022 in the uber-competitive midsize SUV segment to go up against the Hyundai Creta, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq, and more. Developed in collaboration with Toyota (which has its own version dubbed the Urban Cruiser Hyryder), the Grand Vitara impresses with its refined and fuel-efficient powertrain options, ride and handling balance, and features list. Here’s what you need to know before you buy a used example.

Maruti Grand Vitara powertrain and mileage details

1.5-litre engine options, CNG most fuel-efficient at 26.6km/kg

The Grand Vitara, like the Hyryder, was offered with two engine options. The 103hp, 1.5-litre petrol mild-hybrid engine comes mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic; AWD was only available with the top-end mild-hybrid manual variant. Maruti claimed an efficiency of 21.11kpl for the manual, 20.58kpl for the automatic and 19.38kpl for the AWD variant. The second powertrain is a Toyota-sourced 92hp, 1.5-litre, three-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine paired with an electric motor that makes 79hp and 141Nm. Combined, the hybrid powertrain makes 115hp and is paired to an e-CVT gearbox. Maruti claims an efficiency of 27.97kpl for this powertrain.

Additionally, a CNG version was launched in 2023 with the 1.5-litre Suzuki engine, producing a lower 88hp and 121.5Nm and paired with a 5-speed manual only. The Grand Vitara CNG has a claimed fuel efficiency of 26.6km/kg.

Smooth and efficient powertrains

All powertrains are smooth and efficient, so you can’t really go wrong with whichever you opt for. However, choose it based on your usage pattern. Those with high running will find good value in the strong hybrid and CNG, given their lower running costs compared to the mild-hybrid petrols. However, the mild hybrids will be more affordable to buy. Those interested in light off-roading can opt for the AWD. It’s worth keeping in mind that the strong hybrid has a smaller boot than the mild-hybrid petrol and AWD, owing to the battery being placed below the boot floor.

Maruti Grand Vitara variants and features

Four variants; panoramic sunroof, 9-inch touchscreen, 6 airbags

Layered dash looks good; gold accents on the hybrid will divide opinion.

Maruti offers the Grand Vitara in four trim levels – Sigma, Delta, Zeta and Alpha. As for features, top-spec Grand Vitaras get a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charger, ambient lighting, connected car tech, ESP, hill-hold assist, tyre pressure monitoring system, six airbags, and more.

While all variants are well-equipped in relation to their price, the mid-spec Zeta offers the best balance between cost and features. Also worth noting, the strong hybrid is only offered on the top two Zeta and Alpha trims, while the CNG is offered in the mid-spec Delta and Zeta.

The Grand Vitara has proven to be a reliable SUV, and what’s nice is that it was also offered with an extended warranty of 5 years/ 1,00,000 km. It’s worth looking for an example that has the extended warranty, given that it’ll still be covered under it. What should also further ease your mind is that it’s backed up by Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network around the country.

What to look out for in a used Maruti Grand Vitara

Infotainment issues

Owners have faced issues with the 9-inch touchscreen on higher variants. Issues include the phone randomly disconnecting, the screen freezing or blanking and the system rebooting. Most of these pertain to software updates, so ensure that has been taken care of.

Cabin heating

Owners of the panoramic sunroof-equipped models have also complained about excessive heat radiating from the glass, thanks to the thin sunblind. Maruti had acknowledged complaints and started offering dealer-level fitment of a sunroof film, which alleviated the issue to a certain extent. If you are looking at a car with the sunroof, ensure it has the film installed as it helps lower cabin temperature.

Past recalls

The SUV has been subjected to three recalls so far to fix potential issues, which include a defect in the rear seat belt mounting brackets, a fault in the airbag control unit and a defect in the child parts of the front seat belt’s shoulder height adjuster assembly. All these were carried out free of charge, so ensure that they have been taken care of if the example you’re looking at was a part of the recall batch. 

Second hand Maruti Grand Vitara price, resale value

Rs 9 lakh-15 lakh

Look to spend up to Rs 15 lakh for a used example, depending on the variant and mileage. The strong hybrids will be the most expensive, while the petrol-MT will be the most affordable. Refrain from spending over Rs 15 lakh, as you’d find better value in buying a brand new one.

Also see:

Buying a used Hyundai Alcazar: what to look out for

Buying a used Hyundai Aura: what to look out for

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