Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs Toyota HyRyder Comparison Review: Which One Should You Buy?

The compact SUV market in India is experiencing rapid growth, with several new vehicles entering the market. Although South Korean brands currently dominate the segment, European automakers have demonstrated their worth with numerous accolades over the past year. Now, it is the Japanese automakers' turn to make a mark with two new and highly popular cars in this fiercely competitive segment - the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder. Despite several similarities between the two SUVs, there are also key differences, including their hybrid systems, transmissions, and all-wheel drive capabilities. But, which one should you buy as ultimately, the choice between the Maruti Suzuki and Toyota models will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Prices & Variants

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder are essentially siblings since they are developed on the same platform and have similar features. Both manufacturers are reputable, dependable, and have a track record of reliability. Therefore, the deciding factor between the two would be pricing and cost of ownership. In addition to this, both SUVs come with hybrid options, making them unique offerings in the market. Both SUVs use the same 1.5-litre engine, but the Grand Vitara offers ten trim levels, while the HyRyder offers eleven. The major difference between the two vehicles lies in their hybrid systems.

The HyRyder has a stronger hybrid powertrain and is available in three trim levels, giving it an edge over the Grand Vitara, which has just two hybrid options. With the base version, customers can purchase a powerful hybrid SUV for Rs. 2.38 lakh less than the Grand Vitara. The top grades of both SUVs are similarly priced, with the HyRyder offering a few more comfort features. Ultimately, buyers should consider their preferences and budget when deciding between the two SUVs.

Out of the 8 available mild-hybrid models, 5 come with a manual transmission including an AWD option, while the other three are automatic. Maruti has priced its variants competitively, with a significant price difference between variants ranging from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 50,000.

Fuel Efficiency

To determine which SUV is the best fit, we need to consider two main aspects - fuel economy and driving style. Both the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder use the same 1.5-litre mild-hybrid engine, which is well-known for its excellent efficiency returns. The manual version of the engine returns 21.12 kmpl, while the automatic version returns 20.58 kmpl. On the other hand, the Toyota HyRyder AWD we tested returned 19.39 kmpl. 

The 45-litre tank provides more than 900 km of range, which is significantly better than petrol and diesel offerings in the segment. The mild-hybrid variants are ideal for city driving, thanks to their idle start/stop function.

Both the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder offer an all-wheel-drive system, which is a significant advantage. However, there is a catch - the AWD system is only available with the mild-hybrid version that comes with a manual gearbox. As a result, neither the powerful hybrid nor the automatic versions receive this feature, which can be a bit complicated for some customers. Ideally, having the AWD system available across all variants would have been beneficial for customers who prioritise this feature.

The Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder's strong hybrid version is a standout feature in the segment, showcasing Toyota's expertise in this type of powertrain. It offers exceptional performance, with more power and quicker acceleration than the mild-hybrid version. The strong hybrid also boasts an impressive range of over 1,200 km on a single tank, making it an excellent option for long drives. One of the most impressive features of the strong hybrid is its ability to start in pure EV mode, providing a silent and clean driving experience. With a range of up to 25 km on batteries alone, the strong hybrid adds to the overall fuel economy of the SUV, making it an appealing choice for customers looking for an eco-friendly vehicle.

The Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder's strong hybrid version boasts a remarkable fuel efficiency of 27.97 kmpl on a single fuel tank, making it the most fuel-efficient option in the segment. This impressive fuel efficiency not only makes it a cost-effective option in the long term but also an eco-friendly choice for customers. It's worth noting that while the strong hybrid offers plenty of power, it's important to be mindful of the throttle usage for maximum efficiency.

On the other hand, Maruti Suzuki has also made an effort to provide high fuel efficiency with the mild hybrid version of the Grand Vitara. However, it cannot be compared to the strong hybrid, which is the Urban Cruiser HyRyder's standout feature and its unique selling point. The strong hybrid version's exceptional fuel efficiency is a major draw for customers looking for an environmentally conscious and cost-effective SUV option.

Ride & Handling

The strong hybrids undoubtedly have the upper hand in this comparison. They offer not only exceptional fuel efficiency but also offer an enjoyable driving experience. The electric motor's boost adds to the spirited drive, while the paddle shifters provide a smooth gear shift. While the 1.5-litre engine's 114 bhp may not be the most powerful in the segment, it delivers enough power for an instant punch. With a slightly higher torque of 141 Nm compared to its less potent counterpart, the power is accessible right from the start. The e-CVT transmission is faultless, offering a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.

When it comes to the mild hybrid version's driving experience, it's important to note that it's not tuned to be a powerhouse. The power output is relatively lower compared to the strong hybrid version, but this is because the car is tuned for comfort, whether you're driving in the city or on the highway. Efficiency is a key factor here, but when compared to other fuel options in the segment, the mild hybrid is highly practical. While I appreciate the comfortable ride quality, a better set of tyres would make the journey even more enjoyable. The current tyres lack sufficient cornering grip, and upgrading to a better set would not only enhance the driving experience but also contribute to better fuel efficiency figures.

Tech & Features

There are also differences in the equipment offerings between the Grand Vitara AllGrip and the HyRyder NeoDrive V models. The top-spec Grand Vitara boasts of Emergency Brake Light Flash, Hill Descent Control, Electronic Differential Lock, and wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, which are not available on the HyRyder NeoDrive V. However, the latter comes with standard features such as Brake Assist, steering adjustment, a manual anti-glare IRVM, a leather-wrapped gear knob, ambient lighting, puddle lights, and a fully digital instrument panel.

It is noteworthy that the strong-hybrid versions of both compact SUVs come with a plethora of features, making them more luxurious. These models offer amenities like wireless charging, ventilated front seats, and a fully digital instrument cluster that displays vital information about the vehicle. In addition, the inclusion of a Head-Up-Display (HUD) is a significant advantage, even though it comes at a higher price point. These features enhance the overall driving experience and make the SUV feel more upscale, making them an attractive option for those seeking a more premium ride. We appreciate the attention to detail in these variants and believe that the additional cost is justified by the added functionality and convenience.

Grand Vitara or Urban Cruiser HyRyder?

The powerful hybrid variants offer a lot to like. The added power and torque, coupled with the boost provided by the electric motor, make them enjoyable to drive. The refinement is also a highlight, with low NVH levels and a smooth engine making for a luxurious driving experience. However, the limited number of trims available with this powertrain is a drawback, as there is only one transmission option - the e-CVT. Additionally, the higher price point may be a deterrent for some buyers, despite the long-term cost-effectiveness of the strong hybrid.

The mild hybrid versions are perfect for those looking for a comfortable driving experience. While they may not have the power of strong hybrids, they are still efficient and practical for everyday use. One advantage of the mild hybrid is that it comes with a manual gearbox and AWD, which provides a better driving experience for some. Additionally, the paddle shifters in the strong hybrid models are missing, which can be a disadvantage for some drivers who prefer a sportier driving experience. Another advantage of the mild hybrid models is that they offer more engine options, which provides greater flexibility for buyers. Overall, the mild hybrid models are a great option for those looking for an efficient and comfortable compact SUV.

Verdict

To summarise, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder offer a refreshing option in the crowded compact SUV market, especially with the availability of mild and strong-hybrid options. These options make them greener and cleaner alternatives to competitors such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and MG Astor. Additionally, the Toyota HyRyder has an advantage with a more rewarding warranty package for both the strong and mild hybrid options.

After considering both powertrain options, it becomes apparent that the strong hybrid variants stand out as the superior choice due to their impressive driving performance, significantly higher fuel efficiency, and extensive list of advanced features.

Photography By: Apoorv Choudhary