Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid vs Its Turbo Petrol Rivals Comparison Test

In this edition of Zig’s performance test, we line up three popular compact SUVs: the Grand Vitara strong hybrid and the turbo-petrol variants of the Kia Seltos and Skoda Kushaq. Maruti has taken a slightly different approach with the Grand Vitara by plonking in a strong hybrid powertrain as their top petrol engine option. In contrast, most of the rivals offer you a zesty turbo-petrol engine that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance. 

So can the Grand Vitara’s strong hybrid engine put up a show when compared to its turbo-petrol rivals? That’s what we are going to find out:

Spec Check 

On paper, it’s the Skoda Kushaq’s 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that has the headlining figures in this test. The Kia Seltos comes a close second, while the Grand Vitara’s strong hybrid unit develops the least amount of power. However, the electric motor in the Maruti’s unit promises better low-end response and let’s see whether it helps it post better acceleration times.  

Acceleration Test

*Tested in wet weather conditions 

Sadly, the lack of power in the Grand Vitara is evident as the strong hybrid SUV posts the slowest times in both the acceleration and roll-on runs. Also, the Grand Vitara starts to run out of breath once you start inching closer to three-digit figures. It’s the Skoda Kushaq’s rev-happy 1.5-litre motor that puts out the quickest time, followed closely by the Kia Seltos.

Also Read: Maruti Grand Vitara Mild Hybrid And Strong Hybrid Put Through Its Paces

Fuel Efficiency Test 

This is where the Grand Vitara reclaims points thanks to the strong hybrid powertrain’s incredible fuel efficiency numbers. In fact, the SUV runs most of the time in EV power in town, and as a result, it’s almost 14kmpl more efficient than its rivals. Even on the highway, the Grand Vitara strong hybrid usurps its rivals by a significant margin. 

In town, it’s the Seltos that’s the least efficient, while the Kushaq, despite having cylinder deactivation tech for better economy, guzzled the most on the highway. 

Also Read: 2022 Mahindra Scorpio N Turbo-petrol vs Diesel Automatic: How Fast And Frugal Is Mahindra’s New SUV?

Price And Verdict

It’s clear that if you want performance the Grand Vitara turbo-petrol rivals do a much better job of plastering a smile on your face. However, if you’re looking for a car that delivers stellar fuel efficiency, the Grand Vitara strong hybrid makes a whole lot of sense, especially with the current state of fuel prices.