India's compact SUV market is now one of the most crowded and competitive segments, and the arrival of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris makes it even more interesting. Positioned alongside the Grand Vitara, the Victoris is aimed squarely at the long-standing leaders of the pack, the Kia Seltos and the Hyundai Creta. So, does Maruti's new contender have what it takes to challenge these Korean heavyweights? Let's find out.
Where the Victoris Strikes First
Before looks or features, let's talk money.
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Maruti Suzuki Victoris: ₹10.50 lakh – ₹19.99 lakh
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Kia Seltos: ₹11.19 lakh – ₹20.56 lakh
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Hyundai Creta: ₹11.11 lakh – ₹20.92 lakh
The Victoris undercuts both rivals at the entry point, with the LXi Mild-Hybrid starting at ₹10.50 lakh. Even its top-spec ZXi Plus (O) Strong-Hybrid at ₹19.99 lakh stays under the Creta's and Seltos' highest trims.
Here's a quick breakdown of Victoris' pricing highlights:
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Most affordable hybrid SUV in its class, starting at ₹16.38 lakh.
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CNG option across trims, from ₹11.50 lakh.
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AWD option on higher trims, topping out at ₹19.22 lakh (Mild-Hybrid Automatic).
This aggressive pricing strategy makes Victoris the most value-packed entry into the segment, especially for efficiency-conscious buyers.
Close but Distinct
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Victorís: 4,360 mm (L) | 1,795 mm (W) | 1,655 mm (H) | 2,600 mm (WB)
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Seltos: 4,365 mm | 1,800 mm | 1,620 mm | 2,610 mm
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Creta: 4,330 mm | 1,790 mm | 1,635 mm (with roof rails) | 2,610 mm
The Victorís is the tallest, promising more headroom and upright stance, while the Seltos edges ahead in width and wheelbase, aiding stability and second-row legroom. The Creta sits in the middle with its slightly shorter but balanced proportions.
No Corners Cut
All three SUVs bring a long list of tech and comfort equipment, including:
✔️ 10-inch+ touchscreen infotainment
✔️ Digital driver's display
✔️ Panoramic sunroof
✔️ 6 airbags
✔️ 360° camera
✔️ Level-2 ADAS
Where they differ:
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Victorís: Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, twin-cylinder CNG integration for usable boot space.
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Seltos: 18-inch alloys, Bose audio, and a sportier cabin ambience.
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Creta: Slightly larger infotainment display (10.25-inch) and Hyundai's reputation for cabin quality.
The Victoris manages to match and in some cases exceed its rivals despite the lower entry price.
Efficiency vs Performance
This is the real fork in the road.
Victorís options:
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1.5L Mild-Hybrid Petrol | 103 PS, 137 Nm
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1.5L Strong-Hybrid | 116 PS, 141 Nm
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1.5L Petrol-CNG | 88 PS, 122 Nm
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AWD available (Mild-Hybrid AT)
Seltos options:
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1.5L Petrol | 115 PS, 144 Nm
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1.5L Turbo-Petrol | 160 PS, 253 Nm
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1.5L Diesel | 116 PS, 250 Nm
Creta options:
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1.5L Petrol | 115 PS, 144 Nm
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1.5L Turbo-Petrol | 160 PS, 253 Nm
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1.5L Diesel | 116 PS, 250 Nm
The Victoris is clearly geared towards fuel efficiency and running cost savings, thanks to its hybrid and CNG offerings. It's also the only one with an AWD system, which is rare in this class.
The Creta and Seltos dominate when it comes to performance and driving excitement, with their turbo-petrols and diesels delivering stronger outputs and torque.
Which SUV Suits You Best?
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Victorís → For buyers chasing efficiency, lower running costs, and all-weather versatility. Best if you want hybrids or CNG without compromising boot space.
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Seltos → A sportier, youthful SUV with punchy performance and stylish interiors. Suits those who enjoy spirited driving.
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Creta → The all-rounder. Premium cabin, strong brand value, wide powertrain choices, and a proven record in India.
Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki Victoris makes a compelling entry into the compact SUV segment. With aggressive pricing, hybrid/CNG versatility, and AWD availability, it positions itself as the most practical choice for family buyers and efficiency seekers.
But for buyers who prioritise power, polish, and premiumness, the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos remain benchmarks. The Creta feels more refined, while the Seltos adds a sportier edge.
All of this, of course, is on paper. And if there's one thing we've learnt, it's that brochures and spec sheets don't always tell you how a car really feels. We'll soon put the Victoris, Creta, and Seltos through a proper real-world test, as numbers can't convey the ride comfort, steering feel, or the actual ease of living with these SUVs.
Until then, the Victoris brings value and versatility, while the Korean twins continue to offer performance and prestige.
