V3Cars
V3Cars
iconUpcoming Cars
iconPopular Cars
iconLatest Cars
iconElectric Cars
News

Stay updated with the latest automotive news.

Reviews

Discover expert car reviews and comparisons.

Videos

Watch in-depth video reviews, comparison, variants explained and more.

Calculators

Estimate costs and savings with our handy automotive calculators.

Buy, Sell & Renew

Simplify your car ownership journey with our buying, selling, and renewal tools.

Others

Explore additional resources and comparisons for car enthusiasts.

HomeReviewsMaruti Nexa Grand Vitara Quick Drive Review

Published : 29 August 2022

Read Time : 5 min

In this Maruti Grand Vitara quick drive review, we will share our experience of driving the 5-seater SUV at Maruti’s test track in Rohtak, Haryana. We drove the Grand Vitara with multiple powertrain options, including the mild-hybrid auto, mild-hybrid 4WD manual and the strong hybrid auto.

AD
Maruti Nexa Grand Vitara

Test Track Brief

As we stated earlier, we drove the Grand Vitara on the test track in Maruti’s Rohtak R&D facility. The track comprised a high-speed track, a highway track and a city track. The high-speed track is roughly a 6km long oval loop with banked sections around turns. The highway track is around 4.5km long while the city track is 1.5km long. We hit a maximum speed of 140kmph and a minimum speed of 80kmph on the track. We recorded the acceleration and fuel efficiency of the car on this track, which we will share in detail later.

Note: Check your Car EMI with our - Car Loan EMI Calculator

From our experience driving the car, here are a few frequently asked queries answered:

Does it feel underpowered?

Before we draw any conclusions regarding the performance of various powertrain options of the Grand Vitara, here is a quick look at the engine specifications of all powertrain options on offer:

MARUTI NEXA GRAND VITARA

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS COMPARED

Specifications

Mild-Hybrid - 2WD & 4WD

Strong Hybrid

Engine

1.5L

1.5L

Cylinder

4

3

Displacement

1462cc

1490cc

Power

103PS @ 6000rpm

115.5PS

Peak Torque

136.8Nm @ 4400rpm

141Nm

Manual

5MT

-

Manual FE

21.11kmpl

19.38kmpl 4WD

-

Auto

6TC

eCVT

Auto FE

20.58kmpl

27.97kmpl

The Grand Vitara mild-hybrid produces a maximum power of 103PS and 136.8Nm of peak torque. This powertrain lags behind other SUVs in the segment in terms of power and torque figures. Compared to the other powertrain options on offer, the mild-hybrid felt the most sluggish. During our test, we tested the 0-100kmph timing of the mild-hybrid automatic version. The car took roughly 16 seconds to complete the run, which was not quick by any means.

GRAND VITARA | 0-100kmph ESTIMATE

Mild Hybrid Automatic

AWD Mild Hybrid Manual

Strong Hybrid

16 seconds

15.5 seconds

14 seconds

We also tested the mild-hybrid 4WD manual version of the Grand Vitara. This time, the car took roughly 15.5 seconds to complete the 0-100kmph run. On the other hand, the strong hybrid automatic version of the Grand Vitara took around 14 seconds to reach a speed of 100kmph.

From the acceleration times, we can conclude that the strong hybrid version is the peppiest of the lot. Even on paper, the strong hybrid powertrain has the upper hand. It produces 115.5PS of maximum power and 141Nm of peak torque. We think that its performance is comparable to that of its naturally-aspirated rivals.

After our brief drive, we think that the Grand Vitara’s mild-hybrid engine is suitable for buyers who do most of their commutes in the city. The engine would feel underpowered on the highway, especially with 5 people and their luggage on board. On the other hand, the strong hybrid version should be suitable for someone with a lot of running, be it inside the city or on the highway.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Expected Prices

What’s the highway performance like?

To judge the highway performance of all the powertrain options of the Grand Vitara, we compared the engine behaviour at around 100kmph. The mild-hybrid setup with the 4WD system in the Grand Vitara is only available with a 5-speed manual transmission. At a speed of 100kmph, the engine felt strained as it was cruising at around 3000rpm.

GRAND VITARA | 100kmph rpm

Mild Hybrid AWD Manual

Mild Hybrid Automatic

3000rpm

2250rpm

The mild-hybrid front-wheel-drive version is also available with a 6-speed TC automatic transmission. This powertrain felt comparatively relaxed due to the added 6th gear. At 100kmph, the engine was revving at around 2250rpm. Hence, if you plan to buy the mild-hybrid Grand Vitara for frequent highway drives, you should opt for the automatic transmission.

Note: Check your car’s fuel cost with Fuel Cost Calculator in India

Among all 3 powertrain options on offer, we found the strong hybrid Grand Vitara’s performance the best. It also felt the most relaxed at 100kmph. Additionally, it also felt the most responsive on pressing the accelerator pedal at this speed.

However, the 3-cylinder engine of the strong hybrid setup was a bit loud. A lot of noise filtered into the cabin, which one could overcome with the audio system. However, it was noticeably louder than the 4-cylinder mild-hybrid engine,

Talking about the braking performance, it was not up to the mark, especially when exceeding triple-digit speeds. However, it was enough for the performance the Grand Vitara has to offer. To comment or discuss the ride and handling of the Grand Vitara, we will need to drive it more.

Also Read: Maruti Nexa Grand Vitara Petrol Variants Explained - Which One To Book?

What was the indicated fuel efficiency?

As we stated earlier, we were driving the Grand Vitara on a 6km long high-speed track. During our drive, we recorded the indicated fuel efficiency of all 3 powertrain options. However, we achieved these figures after driving for only 6km and hence, these are not conclusive. Additionally, we drove the Grand Vitara at speeds higher than 100kmph most of the time while touching 140kmph in between as well. Given our aggressive driving style, these figures do not represent real-world driving conditions at all.

GRAND VITARA | DISPLAYED FUEL EFFICIENCY

Mild Hybrid Automatic

AWD Mild Hybrid Manual

Strong Hybrid

12.2kmpl

10kmpl

10kmpl

Talking about the mild-hybrid automatic version of the Grand Vitara, it displayed a fuel efficiency of 12.2kmpl on the high-speed track. On the other hand, the mild-hybrid 4WD version displayed a comparatively lower mileage of 10kmpl.

Shockingly, the strong-hybrid Grand Vitara showed a fuel efficiency of 10kmpl, which was lower than the mild-hybrid automatic version. We think the reason behind this was us doing high speeds with the car. At such high speeds, only the engine was delivering almost all of the power and hence, the car could not take the advantage of the electric setup. However, we are confident that during city drives or relaxed highway drives, the strong-hybrid version will deliver more mileage than other powertrain options.

 

AD

Did you find this information helpful?

Mohammad Osaaf
Mohammad Osaaf

V3Cars Editorial Team

In the age of SUVs and crossovers, it's the traditional, 3-box sleeper sedans that excite him the most. All it needs is a punchy engine, a tight chassis and everyday practicality. Skoda Octavia VRS and BMW M5 are his favourites.

Comments

0 comments

U
Loading comments...

Car News Update

View All Latest News
Upcoming Cars In November 2026 – Mercedes, Denza, Mini & BMW

Upcoming Cars In October 2026 - Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric, Denza, Mini & BMW

The Indian car market is set to see several new launches in November 2026, with luxury electric cars and performance models making up much of the upcoming lineup.

Nikil Jonathan
Denza Z9 GT Teased Ahead Of India Launch – What To Expect

Denza Z9 GT Teased Ahead Of India Debut; Gets 1,156PS Tri-Motor Setup

Denza have officially teased the Z9 GT ahead of the brand’s India debut on November 13, 2026. The teaser offers a glimpse of the upcoming electric shooting brake’s exterior and interior design, marking the first time Denza have showcased the India-bound model.

Nikil Jonathan
FASTag Local Annual Pass 2026 – Fees, Eligibility And Benefits

FASTag Local Annual Pass From November 1, 2026 – Eligibility, Fees And Benefits Explained

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) will introduce a concessional annual FASTag pass for eligible private non-commercial vehicle owners living within 20km of a National Highway toll plaza from November 1, 2026. The scheme is intended to make regular toll crossings more affordable for eligible local residents.

Nikil Jonathan
2026 Maruti Suzuki Fronx Facelift Spied - Top 5 Expected Changes

2026 Maruti Suzuki Fronx Facelift Spied – Top 5 Expected Changes

Maruti Suzuki have begun testing the Fronx facelift, with the first spy shots revealing a heavily camouflaged test mule. Launched in April 2023, the Fronx is due for a mid-cycle update that could bring revised styling, additional safety and convenience features, and a new 3-cylinder petrol engine.

Nikil Jonathan
Land Rover Defender Price Cut By Rs. 34 Lakh

Land Rover Defender Prices Cut By Up To Rs. 34 Lakh After Local Assembly

The Land Rover Defender 110 is now up to Rs. 34 lakh cheaper in India after Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) started assembling the luxury SUV at its Pune facility. Prices now start at Rs. 99 lakh (ex-showroom), taking the entry-level locally assembled version below the Rs. 1 crore mark. The price reduction is a result of shifting from importing fully built vehicles to assembling them in India using imported kits.

Nikil Jonathan
Hyundai Bayon Variant-Wise Powertrain Options

Hyundai Bayon – Variant-Wise Powertrain Options

Hyundai have launched the 2026 Bayon SUV with prices starting at Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom). Hyundai offer the 2026 Bayon in 7 variants with petrol-manual and petrol-automatic powertrain options. However, the automatic transmission is not available in all variants.

Nikil Jonathan
New Maruti Electric SUV Spied – 3-Row Electric MPV Likely

New Maruti Suzuki YMC Electric MPV Spotted

A new Maruti Suzuki electric MPV, internally codenamed YMC, was spotted testing recently, with fresh spy shots revealing more details about its exterior styling and cabin. Expected to share its underpinnings with the e Vitara, the upcoming electric MPV could expand Maruti Suzuki’s EV lineup with a more spacious family-oriented model.

Nikil Jonathan
Government Allows E100 Fuel For Flex Fuel Cars

Government Allows E100 Fuel For Flex-Fuel Cars – What Changes For Buyers?

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) have amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, to formally recognise E100 fuel for compatible flex-fuel vehicles.  The change creates a clearer regulatory pathway for automakers to develop and certify vehicles that can run on higher ethanol blends, including fuel containing 100% ethanol. However, it does not mean that existing petrol cars can use E100 or that the fuel will become available at every petrol pump immediately.

Nikil Jonathan
Hyundai Bayon Colours - Including Matte And Dual-Tone Options - Explained

Hyundai Bayon Variant-Wise Colours

Hyundai offer 10 exterior colour options for the Bayon. These include 6 single-tone shades, 2 matte finishes and 2 dual-tone combinations. Here’s their variant-wise availability, along with the interior colour themes paired with them.

Siddharth
Hyundai Bayon CNG Launch In January 2027

Hyundai Bayon CNG Launch In January 2027

Hyundai have confirmed that the Bayon CNG will launch in India in January 2027. The upcoming CNG version of Hyundai’s new C-segment SUV is expected to use the petrol model’s 1.5L non-turbo petrol engine, albeit with lower power and torque outputs. It will also feature an underbody CNG tank to preserve boot space.

Nikil Jonathan
2026 Jeep Compass Sport Automatic Launched At Rs. 22 Lakh

Jeep Compass Sport AT Launched At Rs. 22 Lakh

Jeep India have launched the Compass Sport base variant with a 9-speed automatic transmission at Rs. 21.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Compared to the 2026 Compass Sport manual variant, the new Compass Sport AT costs Rs. 4 lakh more and serves as the entry-level variant with an automatic gearbox. Deliveries are scheduled to begin by the second week of November 2026.

Nikil Jonathan
Hyundai Bayon Launched At Rs. 10 Lakh

Hyundai Bayon Launched At Rs. 10 Lakh

Hyundai have launched the Bayon at an introductory starting price of Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom). Buyers can choose a 1.5L normal petrol engine with either a 6-speed manual transmission or CVT automatic.

Siddharth

Expert Car Reviews

View All Car Reviews
2026 Maruti Baleno Facelift Review In Pictures

2026 Maruti Baleno Facelift Photo Gallery - Design, Features And Drive Review

The 2026 Maruti Baleno facelift gets a new 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol engine, level 2 ADAS and ventilated front seats. We drove it to see whether the new engine and added features make up for the loss of the old 4-cylinder’s refinement.

Aryan Tyagi
2026 Tata Curvv Series X Photo Gallery - Exterior And Interior

2026 Tata Curvv Series X Photo Gallery - Exterior, Interior And Features

Tata have launched the 2026 Curvv Series X with a simpler variant lineup and several features moved further down the range. We got a closer look at the new Curvv Series X, including the Pure X Plus and Creative X Plus variants. In this detailed photo gallery, we take you through their exterior differences, interior, features, rear-seat space and the construction of Tata’s R-Comfort seats.

Siddharth
2026 Maruti Brezza Facelift

2026 Maruti Brezza Facelift Worth Buying?

The 2026 Maruti Brezza adds a 1.0L turbo petrol engine, more features and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. Its underbody CNG cylinder also frees up the full 328L boot. However, not every powertrain and variant offers equally strong value. We explain which Brezza to buy and when a rival makes more sense.

Siddharth
2026 Maruti Brezza 1.0L Turbo First Drive Review

2026 Maruti Arena Brezza 1.0L Turbo Manual First Drive Review

We drove the 2026 Maruti Arena Brezza with its new 1.0L turbo petrol engine and 6-speed manual transmission. We covered roughly 50km over about 2 hours at speeds representative of typical city driving. Here are my impressions of its performance, refinement, mileage, highway manners, ride and everyday usability.

Jagdev Kalsi
2026 Brezza CNG 328L Boot Space Explained

2026 Maruti Brezza CNG 328L Boot Space Explained

The 2026 Maruti Brezza CNG now has its cylinder mounted below the body, allowing it to retain the petrol version’s full 328L boot space. We examine the practical improvement, dimensions, ground clearance and boot-related features offered with each CNG variant.

Siddharth
2026 Brezza Turbo Vs 1.5L Petrol - Which One To Buy?

2026 Maruti Brezza 1.0L Turbo Vs 1.5L Petrol - Which One To Buy?

The 2026 Maruti Brezza offers a new 1.0L turbo petrol engine alongside the familiar 1.5L normal petrol. Both engines come with a new 6-speed manual transmission. The smaller turbo costs less and offers more power, torque and features, while the 1.5L petrol claims better mileage. We compare the 2 to determine which Brezza petrol-manual makes more sense.

Siddharth
Fronx Petrol Vs CNG

Maruti Arena Fronx Petrol Vs CNG Mileage And Running Cost

If you’re wondering whether to buy the Maruti Suzuki Fronx petrol or CNG, this article will help you make a data-backed decision. We compare the latest ex-showroom prices, official mileage figures and current fuel prices in Delhi to calculate the running cost difference between the Fronx petrol and CNG variants. We also calculate how many kilometres you need to drive the Fronx CNG to recover its higher upfront cost over the petrol variant.

Prathu Sharma
2026 Honda ZR-V Hybrid Photo Gallery Exterior Interior Features

2026 Honda ZR-V Hybrid Photo Gallery

The 2026 Honda ZR-V Hybrid is set to launch in India as Honda’s new flagship SUV on May 22, 2026. Positioned above the Elevate, the ZR-V will rival premium SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line and Skoda Kodiaq with its strong hybrid powertrain, premium interior and advanced features. In this detailed photo gallery, we take a closer look at the ZRV Hybrid’s design, cabin, practicality, safety features and hybrid technology.

Siddharth
2026 Tata Punch EV Variant-Wise Battery Options

2026 Tata Punch EV Variant-Wise Powertrain Options – Battery, Range & Specifications

The 2026 Tata Punch EV is available with multiple battery pack and motor configurations, giving buyers the flexibility to choose between affordability and longer driving range. Depending on the variant, the new Punch EV offers different power outputs, battery capacities and claimed range. In this article, we break down the 2026 Punch EV’s variant-wise powertrain options and check out which variants get the 30kWh and 40kWh battery packs, along with their performance specifications, so you can pick the variant that best suits your needs.

Nikil Jonathan
Maruti Fronx 1.0L Turbo Petrol-Auto Actual City, Highway Mileage Test

Maruti Fronx 1.0L Turbo Petrol-Auto Mileage Test: Real World City, Highway Fuel Efficiency

In this article, we’ll present the data based on V3Cars mileage test and inform you about what real-world fuel efficiency you can expect from the Maruti Fronx 1.0L turbo petrol-automatic in city and highway driving conditions. We’ll also find out how much the mileage numbers deviate from the manufacturer-claimed fuel efficiency figures. The information presented in this article will also help you learn about the mileage differences you can expect when driving in the city vs driving on the highway.

Arpit Gupta
2025 Kia Syros Features Over Kia Sonet

10 Features New Kia Syros Gets Over Kia Sonet

Kia unveiled their all-new B2-segment SUV, the 2025 Syros, on December 19, 2024. While Kia India are yet to reveal the variant-wise prices of the 2025 Syros, it is expected to slot in between the Sonet B2-SUV and Seltos C-SUV.

Nikil Jonathan
Hyundai Exter 1.2L Petrol-Auto Actual City, Highway Mileage Test

Hyundai Exter 1.2L Petrol-Auto Mileage Test: Real World City, Highway Fuel Efficiency

In this article, we’ll present the data based on V3Cars mileage test and inform you about what real-world fuel efficiency you can expect from the Hyundai Exter 1.2L petrol-automatic in city and highway driving conditions. We’ll also find out how much the mileage numbers deviate from the manufacturer-claimed fuel efficiency figures. The information presented in this article will also help you learn about the mileage differences you can expect when driving in the city vs driving on the highway.

Arpit Gupta