Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara History

The new-generation Grand Vitara (2022–present) is a co-developed product between Maruti Suzuki and Toyota (sold as the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder in the Toyota channel), riding on a new platform distinct from earlier Grand Vitara models sold in India.

It marked Maruti's entry into strong-hybrid technology in India, offering a 28.49km/l-rated self-charging strong hybrid alongside a mild-hybrid option — a significant step upmarket for a brand historically associated with entry and value cars.

The Grand Vitara name had appeared in India once before: from 2003 to roughly 2015 Maruti imported it as a premium CBU (completely-built-unit) SUV — first the ladder-frame V6-powered Grand Vitara XL-7 (2003–2007), then a monocoque model with four-cylinder petrol engines (2007–2015). Priced around ₹17–20 lakh and thirsty by Indian standards, that earlier Grand Vitara sold in small numbers and is best understood as a distinct premium-import predecessor to the mass-market 2022 model rather than a direct continuation of it.