Maruti e Vitara to rival Mahindra BE 6, Tata Curvv, Hyundai Creta EV, MG ZS EV
Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest car manufacturer, is gearing up to enter the electric vehicle market with the launch of the e Vitara, set to debut at the 2025 Auto Expo. This new electric SUV will be sold under the Nexa brand.
The e Vitara is built on the Heartect-e platform, a modular skateboard-style chassis developed in collaboration with Toyota. This purpose-built architecture for EVs is designed to accommodate various battery sizes and configurations, enhancing flexibility for future models. Toyota’s own Urban Cruiser EV, which shares this platform, is expected to debut alongside the e Vitara, showcasing the depth of this collaboration.
The exterior of the e Vitara balances modern styling with traditional SUV appeal. Key design elements include LED headlights with three-piece daytime running lights, a black bumper with silver skid plates and a C-pillar-integrated rear door handle for a contemporary look. Standard variants feature 18-inch alloy wheels, while the all-wheel-drive version is equipped with 19-inch alloys. The rear design is completed with LED tail lights and a subtle roof spoiler, creating a refined, cohesive aesthetic.
Maruti Suzuki has ensured the interior matches the premium positioning of the e Vitara. The dual-tone dashboard mirrors the squared-off design cues of the exterior, while integrated technology dominates the cabin. A 10.1-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto sits alongside a digital driver information display, offering a tech-forward experience.
Other notable features include a new two-spoke steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats and a spacious layout. These touches elevate the e Vitara to compete with premium models in the growing EV market.
The e Vitara will offer two battery options globally. The base model includes a 49 kWh battery with front-wheel drive (FWD) producing 142 BHP and 189 Nm of torque. The larger 61 kWh battery, also FWD, delivers 171 BHP while maintaining the same torque output. The highlight, however, is the AWD variant with a dual-motor setup, offering 245 BHP and 300 Nm of torque. If launched, it will be India’s first mass-market AWD EV, setting it apart in the competitive landscape.
Maruti Suzuki is expected to price the e Vitara starting at Rs. 20 lakhs (ex-showroom). This positions it against competitors like the Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV and Toyota’s Urban Cruiser EV. The company aims to attract customers looking for a balance of performance, premium features and the reliability associated with Maruti Suzuki.
Maruti Suzuki has also introduced its ‘e For Me’ vision, which underscores its broader commitment to India’s EV ecosystem. This strategy encompasses not just electric vehicles but also infrastructure development and innovative solutions to enhance EV accessibility. The company plans to showcase this vision at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, highlighting how it envisions a seamless transition to electric mobility for Indian consumers.
The e Vitara was recently teased for the first time in India, creating a buzz ahead of its official unveiling on 17th January, 2025. This launch marks Maruti Suzuki’s bold foray into electric mobility, promising to redefine customer expectations and contribute to India’s growing transition to sustainable transportation solutions.
