India’s SUV market is evolving fast, and Maruti Suzuki appears ready to join the full-fledged 7-seater league. The 7-Seater Grand Vitara has been spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time, confirming that Maruti plans to expand its mid-size SUV platform into a full family mover.
The test mule, seen wearing heavy camouflage, reveals a longer body, extended rear quarter glass, and larger tail section — clear signs of a third-row seat layout. This new version aims to compete with popular 7-seater models like the Hyundai Alcazar, Kia Carens, Tata Safari, and Mahindra XUV700.
Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming Maruti Grand Vitara 7-Seater SUV expected to debut in mid-2025.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The spy images suggest that the 7-seater Grand Vitara will retain most of its design DNA from the current 5-seater model but with clear structural changes.
Key exterior changes spotted:
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Extended C-pillar and stretched rear overhang
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Reworked rear door panels for easier third-row access
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Larger rear quarter window
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Slightly taller stance and increased length (~4.6 m)
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18-inch alloy wheels with new dual-tone finish
The front remains largely identical — same wide grille, chrome-finished accents, and LED projector headlamps. However, the rear bumper and taillights may get fresh detailing to differentiate the 7-seater from the 5-seater variant.
Verdict: Maruti has smartly balanced familiar looks with proportional upgrades for added seating without ruining the SUV’s design harmony.
Platform and Engine Options
The 7-seater Grand Vitara will be based on Suzuki’s Global C platform, shared with the 5-seater version. However, it will use an elongated wheelbase to accommodate the extra row.
Expected Engine Lineup:
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1.5L K15C Petrol Mild Hybrid (103 PS, 137 Nm)
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1.5L Strong Hybrid (Toyota-sourced) (116 PS combined output)
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6-speed AT, 5-speed MT, and e-CVT options
The strong-hybrid setup will continue offering segment-leading fuel efficiency, while the mild-hybrid will serve as an affordable entry option.
Verdict: Maruti will likely prioritise efficiency and refinement over outright performance, targeting family buyers.
Interior and Seating Layout
The most exciting part of the 7-seater Grand Vitara is its third-row addition. Although not officially revealed, early cabin insights suggest:
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2+3+2 layout (seven seats)
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Reclining second row with one-touch tumble function
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Third row suitable for children or short adults on long journeys
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Possible roof-mounted AC vents for the third row
The dashboard design is expected to mirror the current Grand Vitara — premium materials, soft-touch plastics, and a large 9-inch infotainment screen.
Verdict: Expect comfort-focused upgrades, including improved rear visibility and increased boot flexibility with split folding.
Features and Technology
Maruti is likely to equip the 7-seater with most of the top-end features from the Grand Vitara Hybrid variant, including:
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9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen
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Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
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Ventilated front seats
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360-degree camera
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Head-up display
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Panoramic sunroof
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Ambient lighting
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Wireless charger
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Rear AC vents (with 3rd row expected)
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Connected car tech with over 50 functions
Verdict: The SUV should maintain its feature-rich appeal, making it an ideal upgrade for families needing added space without compromising tech.
Safety Features
Maruti has been improving its safety standards significantly. The 7-seater variant is expected to offer the following:
| Safety Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| 6 Airbags | Yes (standard in higher trims) |
| ABS + EBD | Standard |
| ESP with Hill Hold | Standard |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes |
| 360-Degree Camera | Yes |
| ISOFIX Child Mounts | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring System | Expected |
The SUV is likely to undergo testing under Bharat NCAP standards, where Maruti aims for a 4-star or better safety rating.
Verdict: Strong safety package expected to make it competitive against Hyundai and Kia rivals.
Expected Dimensions (Approximate)
| Parameter | 5-Seater Grand Vitara | 7-Seater Grand Vitara |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,345 mm | ~4,600 mm |
| Width | 1,795 mm | 1,795 mm |
| Height | 1,645 mm | 1,675 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | ~2,700 mm |
Verdict: The 7-seater version will likely add 250 mm to its length, providing more cabin space and better road presence.
Performance and Ride Comfort
The SUV is expected to prioritise comfort over sportiness, with softer suspension tuning. The hybrid version will deliver smooth throttle response, quiet operation, and high fuel economy — ideal for long family drives.
Expected Mileage:
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Mild Hybrid Petrol: 18–20 km/l
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Strong Hybrid: 25–27 km/l
Verdict: With its hybrid advantage, the 7-seater will likely become one of the most fuel-efficient full-size SUVs in its price range.
Price Expectations (India, November 2025)
| Variant | Estimated Price (₹, Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Base Mild Hybrid | 13.5 lakh |
| Mid Mild Hybrid | 15.2 lakh |
| Strong Hybrid Top | 19.8 lakh |
Verdict: The SUV will likely undercut rivals like the Alcazar and Carens, offering premium features and hybrid efficiency at a lower entry price.
Competition Overview
| Model | Starting Price (₹) | USP |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Alcazar | 16.8 lakh | Diesel + Petrol options |
| Kia Carens | 12.9 lakh | 3-row flexibility |
| Tata Safari | 16.2 lakh | Diesel torque |
| MG Hector Plus | 17.5 lakh | Feature-loaded |
| Maruti 7-Seater Grand Vitara | 13.5 lakh (expected) | Hybrid + Reliability |
Verdict: Maruti will play the value and efficiency card in a segment dominated by diesel SUVs.
Launch Timeline
Industry insiders expect the 7-seater Grand Vitara to launch around July–August 2025, following testing phases through early summer. Production will likely take place at the Toyota Kirloskar facility in Bidadi, Karnataka.
Verdict: Expect bookings to open by mid-2025, with official pricing revealed around the festive season.
Final Verdict
The 7-Seater Grand Vitara 2025 could mark Maruti Suzuki’s big entry into the three-row SUV space. With hybrid efficiency, Maruti reliability, and premium features, it targets both large families and urban buyers seeking more practicality than the 5-seater variant.
If Maruti prices it aggressively between ₹13–₹20 lakh, it could easily become one of the most popular 7-seater SUVs in India.
Verdict Summary:
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Expected Launch: Mid-2025
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Engine: 1.5L Petrol + Hybrid options
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Mileage: Up to 27 km/l (strong hybrid)
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Seating: 7 (2+3+2 layout)
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Price Range: ₹13.5–₹20 lakh (expected)
FAQs
When will the 7-Seater Grand Vitara launch in India?
Expected around mid-2025, with official pricing during the festive season.
What engines will it offer?
Both 1.5L mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid petrol engines are likely.
How many seats will it have?
A full seven-seat (2+3+2) configuration, suitable for families.
Will there be a diesel version?
No, Maruti is focusing on hybrid efficiency instead of diesel power.
What will be its mileage?
Up to 27 km/l for the strong hybrid and 20 km/l for mild-hybrid variants.