Latest news with #StrongHybrid

News.com.au
3 days ago
- Automotive
- News.com.au
New Foz offers strong hybrid
Subaru's new Forester remains true to the car that fans love. But is the new Subaru Forester 'Strong Hybrid' compelling enough to sway buyers from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, or Chinese newcomers? After driving both the petrol and hybrid in Christchurch, on blacktop and off-road, the answer is complex. It depends. The Subaru Forester hybrid kicks off at $46,490 plus on-road costs and stretches to $55,990 for the top-spec Touring, or about $5000 more than the equivalent petrol model. Buyers paying the hybrid premium are promised improved fuel economy and smoother dynamics. This 'Strong Hybrid' - a name Subaru uses to separate it from less powerful hybrid models in cars such as the Crosstrek - pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 90kW electric motor, offering a combined 145kW. Compared to the 2.5-litre petrol variant (136kW/247Nm), the hybrid has slightly more punch off the mark, better responsiveness, and a smooth overall drive. The eCVT transmission is seamless, with no droning, no fake shifts, and instant torque from the electric motor that lends zip. It feels like a step forward compared to older Subarus with petrol engines and stepless automatic transmissions. The hybrid's claimed range of over 1000km per tank is a real win, but don't expect fuel-efficient numbers to match Toyota hybrids. On paper, the Subaru hybrid promises 6.2L/100km fuel use, a 30 per cent improvement over petrol in urban traffic. But I averaged a disappointing 8.0L/100km across mixed driving conditions. What sets Subaru's hybrid apart is its off-road ability. Unlike the RAV4, which has no physical connection between the petrol engine and rear wheels, powering the back tyres with a remotely-mounted e-motor only when needed, the Subaru claims full-time all-wheel-drive. This is great for off-roading and this Forester isn't a soft off-roader. I took the Strong Hybrid on gravel, through streams, slippery surfaces, and across rocks, and it didn't let me down. You also get X-Mode, hill descent control, and 220mm of ground clearance - more than most rivals. Inside the Forester is spacious, solid, and familiar. The seats have good back support, rear space is generous, and the boot is wide and flat, with a total boot capacity of up to 1719 litres when the second row is folded flat. The 11.6-inch table-style infotainment system is great, but it feels divisive. While it looks sleek, the interface can feel overwhelming and, at times, a little slow. It's also prone to sun glare. Although Apple CarPlay integration is great, the maps display beautifully in the digital cluster. My wireless charger didn't work with my iPhone case on, a common complaint. There are still physical buttons on the steering wheel - yes, I know, music to your ears. Surprisingly, the hybrid doesn't come with a spare wheel; instead, you'll find a repair kit. That might be a bit of a turn-off for regional or rural buyers. However, for those who want to carry a full-size spare, there is an accessory solution available for the hybrid. So, how does it stack up against rivals? Well, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid remains the king of fuel efficiency, often returning sub-6L/100km. The Haval H6 Hybrid delivers huge value for the price. But the Forester still wins on off-road capability, something other rivals will struggle with. The Subaru comes standard with a five-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000km hybrid high-voltage battery warranty. Verdict 3.5/5 So is the hybrid worth it? Honestly, the petrol variant holds its own. It's still responsive, composed, and more affordable. But the hybrid does feel a little zippier, quieter, and more refined overall. If you're already a Foz fan, then you'll probably love this. If you're cross-shopping with rivals, then it'll come down to priorities. If you love off-roading, camping, or planning longer trips, then the hybrid is worth the upgrade. However, it's worth noting that the first-year release of this hybrid may come with some hiccups. My advice would be to wait a year to see if any issues arise.


Business Standard
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Standard
Maruti Suzuki India launches 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG
With Premium Features Maruti Suzuki India has launched the launch of the 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG starting at Rs. 13.48 lakh**. The 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG is powered by the Next-Gen K-series 1.5-litre, Dual Jet, Dual VVT engine, offering a fuel-efficiency of 26.6 km/kg#. A multi-product offering, the Grand Vitara is available with a wide range of environment-friendly powertrain technologies including S-CNG, Strong Hybrid and ALLGRIP SELECT 4x4. The 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG offers a wide range of features such as Auto Purify with PM 2.5 Display, 22.86cm (9) SmartPlay Pro+ Entertainment System with Wireless Connectivity and Steering Mounted Audio Controls, Premium Sound System by Clarion~, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Rear View Camera, Wireless Charging Dock, Ventilated Front Seats, Automatic Climate Control, Rear AC Vents, Reclining Rear Seats with 60:40 split, Keyless Entry With Engine Push Start/Stop Button, Auto-Folding ORVMs, Suzuki Connect and more.


Hans India
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hans India
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara becomes the fastest SUV to clock 3 Lakh sales in its segment
Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), the country's leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has surpassed a cumulative sales milestone of 3 lakh units for the Grand Vitara. Setting a new benchmark for mid-size SUVs in India, Maruti Suzuki has achieved this landmark milestone in a record time* of just 32 months. With its latest achievement, the Grand Vitara continues to reinforce its position as a Tech SUV that resonates strongly with the evolving aspirations of modern Indian consumers. A multi-product offering, the Grand Vitara entices customers with the availability of Strong Hybrid powertrain and Suzuki ALLGRIP SELECT 4x4 with 6AT. Commenting on this milestone, Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, 'We thank our 3 lakh strong Grand Vitara family for their trust in Maruti Suzuki. The Grand Vitara has been a catalyst in strengthening Maruti Suzuki's position in the mid-SUV market, and achieving this monumental milestone in such a short period of time is a new benchmark for the industry. Designed for today's urban, tech-savvy, and progressive individuals, the Grand Vitara masterfully combines bold aesthetics, advanced technology, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, underscoring its positioning as a Tech SUV.' He further added, 'Celebrating the success of the Grand Vitara, we are proud to introduce a new campaign 'Driven by Tech'. The campaign vividly communicates our flagship SUV's versatility, and its myriad capabilities which allow it to appeal to diverse personalities, while seamlessly complementing the evolving aspirations of customers.' 'Driven by Tech', is an impactful campaign that showcases automotive technology as an extension of a driver's personality, through a fast-paced film that brings two old friends together. One is a tech-entrepreneur driven by the power of Strong Hybrid technology; the other, a fearless businesswoman who overcomes obstacles with our ALLGRIP SELECT 4x4. From urban landscapes to the daunting frontiers that exist beyond cityscapes, the film takes viewers through two separate journeys, connected by one versatile Tech SUV. Click to watch the TVC here - v=vqWA-eZdlcs Engineered to dominate every road, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara has strongly resonated with its customers on account of its exciting performance, distinctive style and commanding presence. Further enhancing the ownership experience, Customers now have greater choice while opting for a sunroof in the recently updated 2025 Grand Vitara. The Zeta and Alpha variants of the new Grand Vitara are available in optional Zeta (O), Alpha (O), Zeta+ (O) and Alpha+ (O) variants with a panoramic sunroof. The Grand Vitara also boasts of a host of premium features such as R17 precision cut alloy wheels, 6-speed AT with Electronic Parking Brake, Auto Purify with PM 2.5 Display, 8-way Driver Powered Seat, Ventilated Seats, a 22.86cm (9') Smart Play Pro+ entertainment system with wireless connectivity, Suzuki Connect, 360 View Camera, Head Up Display, Wireless Charging Dock, Premium Sound System by Clarion® and more, making this mid-size SUV the ideal choice for every occasion. The new 2025 Grand Vitara is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features that are standard across all variants. These include 6 airbags, 3-point ELR seat belts for all seats, and ISOFIX child seat restraint system, Electronic Stability Program^ (ESP®) with Hill Hold Assist, Front and Rear Disc Brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). A blend of innovation, performance, and safety continues to make the Grand Vitara a standout choice for today's tech-savvy and safety-conscious SUV buyers.


Hindustan Times
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Here's how many Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitaras have been sold till now
Maruti Suzuki India announced on June 6 that it has sold over 3 lakh units of the Grand Vitara The milestone was achieved in just 32 months since the SUV was launched in the country The Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid variants have led a 43 percent y-o-y growth in FY24-25 The 2025 Grand Vitara was recently launched with six airbags and new 17-inch alloys Check product page The SUV gets a new Delta+ Strong Hybrid variant priced at ₹ 16.99 lakh, ex-showroom Its feature set includes a 9-inch infotainment, a HUD, 360-degree camera, and more Occupants are treated with a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats and wireless charging The 2025 Grand Vitara is now E20-compliant and offers two 1.5-litre petrol engines The mild hybrid makes 102 bhp and 137 Nm and the strong hybrid makes 113 bhp and 122 Nm To watch our Grand Vitara review... Click Here


Time of India
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara crosses three lakh sales in 32 months
Maruti Suzuki India has announced that its Grand Vitara SUV has surpassed cumulative sales of 3 lakh units, achieving the milestone within 32 months of its launch. This sets a new benchmark for mid-size SUVs in the country, according to the company. The Grand Vitara is offered with multiple powertrains, including a Strong Hybrid variant and the Suzuki ALLGRIP SELECT 4x4 system with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maruti Suzuki reported that the Strong Hybrid variant witnessed 43per cent year-on-year growth in FY24–25. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, 'We thank our 3 lakh strong Grand Vitara family for their trust in Maruti Suzuki. The Grand Vitara has been a catalyst in strengthening Maruti Suzuki's position in the mid-SUV market, and achieving this monumental milestone in such a short period of time is a new benchmark for the industry.' New campaign and product updates To mark the occasion, Maruti Suzuki has launched a new television commercial under the campaign titled 'Driven by Tech', highlighting the Grand Vitara's positioning as a technology-oriented SUV. The film showcases two users navigating different driving environments—urban and off-road—using Strong Hybrid and ALLGRIP 4x4 variants respectively. The updated 2025 Grand Vitara also brings expanded sunroof options, with Zeta and Alpha variants now available in optional trims featuring a panoramic sunroof. Other standard and available features include 17-inch alloy wheels, ventilated seats, a 9-inch infotainment system, wireless charging, Suzuki Connect, 360-degree camera, head-up display, and sound system by Clarion. All variants are equipped with safety features such as six airbags, ISOFIX mounts, 3-point seat belts for all seats, ESP with Hill Hold Assist, ABS, EBD, and front and rear disc brakes.