Fuel efficiency remains one of the most important decision factors for Indian car buyers, especially in the midsize SUV segment. While official ARAI figures provide a standard benchmark, real world driving conditions often tell a very different story. The Maruti Victoris, positioned as a feature rich and versatile SUV, is offered with multiple powertrain choices, including a mild hybrid petrol automatic with all wheel drive. To understand how efficient this AWD version actually is in everyday usage, the Victoris AWD has been put through a structured real world mileage test. The results reveal how the added weight and drivetrain complexity impact fuel consumption in city and highway conditions.
Maruti Victoris Powertrain Options Explained
The Maruti Victoris is offered with four different powertrain configurations, making it one of the most versatile offerings in its segment. Buyers can choose from a strong hybrid paired with an eCVT gearbox, a CNG option with a manual transmission, a mild hybrid petrol with a 5 speed manual, and a mild hybrid petrol paired with a 6 speed torque converter automatic.
Among these, the petrol automatic variant stands out as the only one that can be configured with an all wheel drive system. While most Victoris variants send power to the front wheels, the AWD version is aimed at customers who value improved traction, stability, and occasional rough road capability.
Quick Summary Table
Field |
Details |
|---|---|
Model tested |
Maruti Victoris AWD |
Engine |
1.5 litre mild hybrid petrol |
Gearbox |
6 speed torque converter automatic |
Drivetrain |
All wheel drive |
ARAI claimed mileage |
19.07 kmpl |
Tested city mileage |
8.93 kmpl |
Tested highway mileage |
14.62 kmpl |
Tested average mileage |
11.78 kmpl |
Official site |
What Makes the Victoris AWD Different
The Victoris AWD uses the same 1.5 litre mild hybrid petrol engine that produces 103 horsepower, paired with a 6 speed Aisin sourced torque converter automatic gearbox. Mechanically, it is very similar to the front wheel drive version, but the addition of the all wheel drive system increases overall weight.
The Victoris AWD weighs between 1,285 kg and 1,305 kg, which is nearly 100 kg heavier than the equivalent front wheel drive variant. This additional mass plays a crucial role in reducing overall efficiency, which is also reflected in the lower ARAI rating compared to the FWD version.
ARAI Mileage vs Real World Mileage
According to official certification, the Maruti Victoris AWD delivers an ARAI rated mileage of 19.07 kmpl. This figure is already lower than the front wheel drive petrol automatic due to the extra drivetrain components and increased weight.
However, ARAI tests are conducted under controlled laboratory conditions that do not fully replicate real traffic, weather, or driving behavior. To bridge this gap, the Victoris AWD was subjected to a real world mileage test covering both city and highway driving.
Maruti Victoris AWD Real World Mileage Test Results
The real world mileage test produced a combined average of 11.78 kmpl for the Victoris AWD. This is significantly lower than the ARAI claimed figure and highlights the impact of real driving conditions.
City Mileage Performance
In city conditions, the Victoris AWD returned a tested mileage of 8.93 kmpl. This figure is on the lower side for a mild hybrid petrol SUV and can be attributed to several factors.
During the test, ambient temperatures ranged from moderate to extremely high, reaching up to 37 degrees. As a result, the automatic start stop system could not keep the engine switched off for extended periods, as it prioritised maintaining the cabin temperature. Frequent stop and go traffic combined with constant air conditioning usage had a noticeable effect on fuel consumption.
Highway Mileage Performance
On the highway, the Victoris AWD performed considerably better, delivering a tested mileage of 14.62 kmpl. Steady cruising speeds, fewer gear changes, and reduced braking allowed the engine and gearbox to operate more efficiently.
While this figure is still lower than the claimed number, it reflects realistic expectations for an AWD petrol automatic SUV of this size and weight.
Why There Is a Big Gap Between ARAI and Real World Figures
The difference of 7.29 kmpl between the ARAI rating and the tested average mileage may appear large, but it is not unusual. Several factors contribute to this gap.
The added weight of the AWD system increases fuel consumption, especially during acceleration and low speed driving. City traffic conditions, high ambient temperatures, continuous air conditioning use, and real driving patterns further widen the difference. Additionally, torque converter automatic gearboxes are generally less efficient in stop and go traffic compared to manuals or hybrid systems.
Comparison with Similar Maruti SUVs
For reference, a previous real world mileage test of the Grand Vitara petrol automatic front wheel drive recorded a combined efficiency of 13.45 kmpl. The Victoris and Grand Vitara are mechanically very similar, which makes this comparison relevant.
The lower average mileage of the Victoris AWD clearly shows the efficiency penalty associated with all wheel drive hardware. Buyers considering the AWD option should factor in this trade off between traction capability and fuel economy.
How the Real World Mileage Test Is Conducted
The real world fuel efficiency test follows a consistent and transparent methodology. Before testing, the fuel tank is filled to the brim and tyre pressures are set according to manufacturer recommendations. The vehicle is then driven on fixed city and highway routes while maintaining predetermined average speeds.
Throughout the test, the air conditioning system and electrical equipment such as infotainment, indicators, and wipers are used as required, replicating everyday usage. Driver changes are made periodically to minimise variations in driving style. At the end of each test cycle, the fuel tank is refilled to calculate accurate consumption figures.
Should You Buy the Victoris AWD for Mileage
If fuel efficiency is your top priority, the Victoris AWD may not be the ideal choice within the lineup. The strong hybrid variant offers significantly better efficiency, while the front wheel drive petrol automatic also delivers higher real world mileage.
However, buyers who prioritise improved traction, better stability in poor road conditions, and the convenience of an automatic gearbox may find the Victoris AWD appealing despite the higher fuel consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
1: What is the real world mileage of the Maruti Victoris AWD
A. The tested real world average mileage of the Victoris AWD is 11.78 kmpl.
2: Why is the Victoris AWD less efficient than the FWD version
A. The AWD system adds extra weight and mechanical components, which increases fuel consumption compared to the front wheel drive version.
3: What mileage does the Victoris AWD deliver in city driving
A. In city conditions, the Victoris AWD recorded a tested mileage of 8.93 kmpl.
4: Does the Victoris AWD have a mild hybrid system
A. Yes, the Victoris AWD uses a 1.5 litre mild hybrid petrol engine with an automatic start stop function.
5: Is the Victoris AWD suitable for buyers focused on fuel efficiency
A. Buyers focused purely on mileage should consider the strong hybrid or FWD variants, as the AWD version prioritises traction and capability over efficiency.
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