Maruti Suzuki has officially begun dealership deliveries of the Victoris LXI CNG, making a significant entry into the family SUV segment with a starting price of ₹11.50 lakh (ex-showroom). This base CNG variant challenges the norm, offering a compelling package of safety, technology, and a unique engineering solution to a common CNG buyer problem.
Solving the CNG Boot Space Dilemma
The most talked-about feature of the Victoris CNG isn’t found on a spec sheet—it’s underneath the car. Maruti Suzuki has engineered a first-for-the-brand solution by mounting the CNG fuel tank beneath the vehicle’s floor. This strategic move directly addresses the major pain point for CNG SUV buyers: a drastically reduced boot. By relocating the tank, the Victoris liberates its cargo area, ensuring practicality isn’t sacrificed for fuel efficiency.
Performance and Economy
Powering the Victoris LXI CNG is a reliable 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine adapted to run on dual fuel. When running on CNG, it delivers a power output of 87 bhp and 121.5 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The standout figure for cost-conscious buyers will be its impressive claimed fuel efficiency of over 27 km per kg, promising significant savings on running costs without compromising the SUV’s driving character.
LXI Variant: Surprisingly Well-Equipped
For a base variant, the Victoris LXI is generously appointed. The exterior of the white model showcased here features projector headlamps, body cladding on the wheel arches, and 17-inch steel wheels with covers. Key highlights include:
- A chrome-accented front grille
- Black-finished ORVMs with integrated turn indicators
- LED tail lamps
- A shark fin antenna
Inside, the cabin welcomes occupants with a two-tone black and ivory theme. The feature set is comprehensive, extending far beyond basic transportation. It includes a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 4.2-inch multi-info display nestled between the analogue dials, and a tilt & telescopic adjustable multi-function steering wheel. Comfort is ensured with power windows, rear AC vents, and a 60:40 split rear seat for flexible storage.
A Strong Foundation of Safety
Maruti Suzuki has equipped the Victoris LXI CNG with a robust safety suite, making no compromises despite its CNG fuel type. Standard safety features include six airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill Hold Assist, and Brake Assist. This comprehensive package provides critical protection and control, aligning with modern safety expectations for a family vehicle.
The arrival of the Victoris LXI CNG strengthens Maruti’s value proposition, offering a frugal yet feature-rich and safe SUV tailored for the practical Indian family. It is now available across showrooms in a palette of ten exterior colours.
