Maruti Suzuki Invicto Hybrid MPV in CarToq’s first drive review [Video]
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota’s partnership has yielded fruitful options in the past, and the latest addition – the Maruti Invicto – is the most expensive option from Maruti Suzuki, which is more affordable than the Toyota Innova Hycross. But is it a better deal? Watch the video or continue reading to find out.
Maruti Suzuki has given the Invicto a distinct Nexa car appearance. It features a large grille with dual chrome bars and headlamps with the signature three-dot LED pattern. The tweaked bumper adds a more SUV-like stance to the Invicto, giving it a touch of aggressiveness.
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On the side, the Invicto showcases a similar silhouette and comes with 17-inch wheels and noticeable chrome accents. The signature Nexa tail lamps and a shark fin antenna complete the look.
Overall, the dimensions of the Maruti Suzuki Invicto are identical to the Toyota Innova Hycross, but the Invicto’s design tweaks make it appear slightly more aggressive.
Inside, the Invicto offers an all-black theme with champagne highlights. While it has a sporty look, it may not exude elegance or a premium feel for a car in this price range. The central stage is taken by a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, which could be brighter, especially when the panoramic sunroof is open. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and will receive an update for wireless Android Auto in the future. The automatic climate control system has a separate screen.
The Invicto is well-equipped with features. It includes a 7.0-inch digital MID (Multi-Information Display) that provides various car-related information. The steering wheel is adjustable for reach and height, and it features buttons for the cruise control system. Rear passengers have their own climate control display and controls, making the Invicto the first-ever Maruti Suzuki car to offer a dual-zone climate control system. The car also offers an electrically adjustable driver’s seat with a memory function, and the front seats are ventilated.
There is ample space in the car, along with numerous cup holders to ensure that your drinks are secure. Even the last row passengers have their own cup holders and AC vents. Despite the black theme not creating a premium ambience, the massive panoramic sunroof prevents the cabin from feeling claustrophobic. However, the speaker system does not deliver premium, high-quality sound.
The Invicto is only available with hybrid petrol engine. The 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine with the hybrid system produce a combined maximum power of 186 PS and peak torque of 188 Nm. While it misses out on the grunt of diesel, it gets ample of low-end torque. With th eCVT, the Invicto can be used on long drives at high cruising speeds without much of a problem.
The mid-range torque is not as strong though. The MPV returned us a fuel efficiency of about 15 km/l during our drive in and around Jodhpur city. We loved the supreme ride quality and it is likely to be the car that most chauffeer-driven customers would love to choose.
Nonetheless, even if you take on the driver’s seat, you will not find it difficult to drive. The EPS makes it easy to navigate through city roads and weighs up very nicely on the high-speeds of highways.
While it misses out on features like ADAS, it offers a much lower price tag than the Toyota Innova Hycross. The near-about Rs 1 lakh cheaper price tag will make it a value-for-money choice of many. The Invicto offers usable features and is definitely a premium offering. What makes it a real winner is the backing of Maruti Suzuki and the strong dealership network across the country. It sure is a better package than the Toyota Innova Hycross. But what do you think about it?
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