Maruti Suzuki’s newest mid-size SUV, the Victoris, has made a strong debut in India’s competitive SUV market. Launched on September 15, 2025, with bookings open since September 4, the Victoris has already received over 30,000 bookings — a clear sign of its growing popularity among buyers.
What’s even more notable is the surge in demand for the CNG variant, which accounts for 38% of total bookings, marking a new milestone for Maruti Suzuki in the mid-size SUV space.
Victoris Booking Breakdown
- Total bookings: 30,000+
- Petrol variants: 53%
- CNG variants: 38% (~11,000 units)
- Strong-hybrid variants: 9%
This distribution reflects a changing trend in consumer preference. While petrol versions remain dominant, the strong demand for the CNG variant highlights a shift toward affordable, fuel-efficient SUVs — aligning with Maruti’s alternative-fuel focus.
Maruti’s CNG Strategy Pays Off
After discontinuing diesel engines in 2020 due to BS6 emission norms, Maruti doubled down on CNG technology. The Victoris proves this strategy has worked, particularly in the mid-size SUV segment, where customers are increasingly seeking efficient alternatives to diesel.
Why Victoris CNG Stands Out
- Innovative Underbody CNG Tank
The Victoris is Maruti’s first SUV to feature an underbody CNG tank, unlike the conventional boot-mounted setup used in other models like the Grand Vitara. This clever design ensures full boot space, enhancing practicality for families and city commuters alike. - Wider Market Reach through Arena Network
Unlike the Grand Vitara, which is sold via Maruti’s premium Nexa outlets, the Victoris is retailed through the Arena dealership network, making it more accessible across smaller towns and rural markets.
Thanks to these advantages, Victoris CNG’s 38% share is nearly double that of the Grand Vitara CNG’s 19%, underlining its stronger appeal.
Taking on Hyundai Creta’s Market Dominance
The Hyundai Creta, the top-selling SUV in the segment, currently lacks a CNG option. Interestingly, the Victoris’ petrol-to-CNG ratio closely mirrors Creta’s petrol-to-diesel mix, suggesting that Maruti is successfully capturing ex-diesel customers seeking better mileage and lower running costs.
Premium Tech and Safety Features Gain Attention
Beyond its efficient powertrains, the Victoris introduces several firsts for Maruti Suzuki:
- Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) on ZXi+ and ZXi+(O) trims
- Strong-hybrid variant with e-CVT
- Advanced safety features and premium interior upgrades
ADAS-equipped versions make up 16% of bookings, while strong-hybrid models, though still niche at 9%, are showing growing traction among tech-savvy buyers.
Deliveries and Waiting Period
Deliveries of the Victoris have already begun across major cities. However, due to high demand:
- Waiting period: Up to 2 months in top markets
- Stock availability: Expected to improve as production ramps up
Conclusion
With its balanced lineup of petrol, CNG, and hybrid variants, the Maruti Victoris is off to a remarkable start. The record-breaking 38% CNG bookings highlight a strong shift in buyer preference toward economical, eco-friendly options.
As supply stabilizes and deliveries scale up, the Victoris could emerge as one of Maruti Suzuki’s most successful premium SUVs, setting new benchmarks in the mid-size SUV segment.
Also read: Maruti Victoris CNG Drives Strong Demand, Accounts for 38% of Bookings
