Maruti Grand Vitara 3-Row: The Bold New 7-Seater SUV India’s Been Waiting For

Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to make a grand statement in the 7-seater SUV space with the launch of the Grand Vitara 3-row on June 15. This new variant builds upon the success of the 5-seater Grand Vitara, offering more space, enhanced comfort, and a family-friendly layout all while retaining the hybrid efficiency and premium appeal that made the original a hit.

The Grand Vitara 3-row is expected to be priced between ₹22–27 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it squarely in competition with segment leaders like the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, and MG Hector Plus. But Maruti isn’t just adding two seats, it’s reimagining the SUV for larger families and longer journeys.

Design Evolution with Purpose

The 3-row Grand Vitara sports a longer wheelbase, redesigned rear fascia, and connected LED tail-lamps that give it a more commanding presence. The side profile is stretched to accommodate the third row, while new alloy wheels and a refreshed front grille add visual distinction. It’s a design that balances elegance with utility sleek enough for city streets, yet rugged enough for weekend getaways.

Interior: Comfort for All Three Rows

Inside, the cabin has been reconfigured to prioritize space and flexibility. Expect captain seats or bench options in the second row, depending on the variant, and a foldable third row that can be stowed for extra boot space. The dashboard is expected to feature a freestanding infotainment screen, digital-analogue instrument cluster, and premium soft-touch materials.

Creature comforts include ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and head-up display (HUD), features that elevate the driving experience for both the driver and passengers. While the third row may not be ideal for tall adults on long drives, it’s perfect for kids or occasional use.

Powertrain: Hybrid Efficiency Meets Practicality

Under the hood, the Grand Vitara 3-row will likely retain the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol and 1.5-litre strong hybrid powertrains from its 5-seater sibling. Transmission options will include both manual and automatic gearboxes. While the added weight may slightly impact performance and fuel economy, the hybrid system ensures low emissions and high efficiency, especially in urban traffic.

The hybrid variant is expected to deliver 20-27 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient 7-seaters in its class. That’s a major win for families looking to cut fuel costs without compromising on space or comfort.

Safety and Technology

Maruti is expected to equip the Grand Vitara 3-row with six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist, reverse parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. While it hasn’t been crash-tested yet, the standard Grand Vitara has performed well in safety evaluations, and the 3-row version is likely to follow suit.

On the tech front, expect connected car features, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice commands, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The infotainment system will likely be a 9-inch touchscreen, paired with a premium sound system for immersive audio.

Market Sentiment: Cautious Optimism

The sentiment around the Grand Vitara 3-row is cautiously positive. While many are excited about a Maruti 7-seater with hybrid tech, some concerns linger about third-row space and air conditioning performance, especially in India’s hot climate. However, Maruti’s reputation for reliability, service network, and value-for-money pricing gives it a strong edge.

7-Seater SUV Comparison Chart

Safety Outlook: Practical Assurance with Proven Underpinnings

As of now, the Maruti Grand Vitara 3-Row hasn’t undergone official testing by Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP, so a certified crash test rating is still pending. However, its roots offer encouraging insights. This model is based on Maruti’s Global-C platform, the same architecture used in the Brezza, which scored a 4-star Global NCAP rating in the past.

The Grand Vitara 3-Row inherits several safety enhancements, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill Hold Assist, ISOFIX child seat mounts, reverse parking sensors, and ABS with EBD. Maruti’s recent move to standardize six airbags across variants signals a stronger commitment to safety compliance ahead of Bharat NCAP regulations.

Given the combination of structural integrity, safety tech, and brand strategy, it’s reasonable to anticipate that the Grand Vitara 3-Row could achieve a 4 to 5 star rating in upcoming safety evaluations. Until then, its lineage and features give buyers solid confidence in its real-world crash protection.

Final Verdict

The Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row is shaping up to be a smart, spacious, and sustainable choice for Indian families. With its hybrid powertrain, premium features, and Maruti’s trusted after-sales support, it’s poised to become a top contender in the 7-seater SUV segment. While it may not be the most powerful or the most luxurious, it strikes a compelling balance of efficiency, practicality, and value.

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