Maruti Suzuki has introduced the Victoris Aurum Edition to mark the SUV’s first anniversary in India. It is aimed at buyers who want their Victoris Strong Hybrid to look a little more special without changing the vehicle’s engine, driving feel or core equipment.

The important detail is that Aurum Edition is not a separate new variant. It is an optional accessory package priced at Rs. 22,990, available with the Victoris Strong Hybrid range. The word “Aurum” means gold in Latin, which suits the gold-toned styling theme used here.

A more noticeable look on the road

The Aurum Edition is mostly about visual upgrades. Maruti Suzuki has added copper-coloured inserts around the front, side and rear skid-plate areas, along with matching treatment around the wheel arches. These small changes give the SUV a warmer and more premium-looking finish than the standard version.

It also gets extra chrome pieces on the grille, fenders, bumpers, side mouldings and door visors. For someone who finds the regular Victoris slightly understated, this package makes it look more dressed up without going overboard.

The edition is likely to appeal to buyers picking up a new car during the festive season or those who prefer a factory-backed accessory fitment instead of choosing individual aftermarket parts.

Useful additions inside the cabin

Maruti has not limited the Aurum Edition to exterior decoration. The package includes all-weather 3D cabin mats, a 3D boot mat and a rear trunk sill guard.

These are practical additions for Indian driving conditions. The mats can help keep dust, mud and accidental spills away from the original carpeting. Meanwhile, the sill guard is useful when heavy bags, strollers or suitcases are regularly loaded into the boot, as it helps protect the painted edge from scratches.

No changes to the hybrid system

Buyers should know that the Aurum Edition does not bring a new engine, battery or transmission. It continues with the Victoris Strong Hybrid setup, which combines a petrol engine and electric motor with an e-CVT automatic gearbox.

Maruti Suzuki claims an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency of 28.65 kmpl for the Victoris Strong Hybrid. That makes it an option worth considering for people with frequent city use, where the hybrid system can use electric assistance at lower speeds.

The Strong Hybrid Victoris is priced from Rs. 16.43 lakh to Rs. 19.99 lakh, ex-showroom. The Aurum package is added on top of the vehicle price.

Where it stands against rivals

The Victoris competes in a busy midsize SUV space that includes the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Tata Curvv, Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

The Aurum Edition will not change the Victoris’ performance against these rivals. Instead, it gives Maruti a way to offer a more distinctive factory-finished look while retaining the hybrid efficiency that remains a major attraction for many buyers.

Maruti says the Victoris crossed 1.5 lakh cumulative sales after its launch, and actor Shahid Kapoor is fronting the Aurum Edition campaign.

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The next few days will be busy for Indian car buyers. Toyota, Mahindra, Audi and Renault are preparing important launches between October 14 and October 17.

The line-up includes a facelifted premium hatchback, a new CNG SUV, a luxury compact SUV and a strong-hybrid version of the Renault Duster. Each model targets a different group of buyers, from city commuters to premium SUV customers.

Toyota Glanza facelift – October 14

The updated Toyota Glanza is expected to launch on October 14. It will follow many of the changes introduced on the latest Maruti Suzuki Baleno, which shares its platform and mechanical parts with the Glanza.

The biggest expected update is a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. This engine reportedly produces around 83hp and 112Nm of torque. The car could also receive a redesigned grille, a revised bumper and small styling changes.

Expected feature additions include advanced driver assistance systems, ventilated front seats and a wireless phone charger. Toyota may price the new Glanza slightly higher than the current model, which is priced between Rs. 6.73 lakh and Rs. 9.99 lakh ex-showroom.

The Glanza will continue to compete with the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz and Maruti Suzuki Baleno. It may suit buyers who want a compact, easy-to-drive car with Toyota’s service network.

Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG – October 15

What was earlier being described as a mystery Mahindra SUV is now expected to be the CNG version of the XUV 3XO. Mahindra has teased the model ahead of its October 15 debut.

The XUV 3XO CNG would become the fourth powertrain option in the range after petrol, diesel and electric versions. It is likely to use a factory-fitted CNG system with the 1.2-litre petrol engine. The petrol version produces 111PS and 200Nm, although the CNG version may have slightly lower output.

The SUV is expected to retain features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital driver display, panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree camera and selected ADAS functions.

Its biggest advantage could be lower running costs for city users. The main rivals will include the Tata Nexon iCNG and Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG.

New-generation Audi Q3 – October 16

Audi will launch the third-generation Q3 in India on October 16. Bookings are already open, while the price will be revealed at launch.

The new Q3 has a more upright design, split headlamps and a larger body. It measures 4,531mm in length and has a 2,681mm wheelbase, which should improve cabin space.

The India-spec SUV is expected to use a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing around 204hp. A seven-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system are also expected.

Inside, the Q3 is likely to feature a modern digital dashboard, connected technology and premium materials. It will compete with the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. Expected prices may begin around Rs. 55 lakh to Rs. 60 lakh ex-showroom.

Renault Duster Hybrid – October 17

As discussed in earlier article, The Renault Duster Hybrid will arrive on October 17 as the fourth strong-hybrid SUV in its segment. It will use Renault’s E-Tech system, combining a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4kWh battery.

The setup is expected to produce 160hp and 172Nm. It should allow the Duster to run on electric power during some city driving conditions, helping reduce fuel consumption.

The hybrid Duster will compete with the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and Maruti Suzuki Victoris hybrids. It may appeal to buyers who want SUV space but are not ready to switch to a fully electric vehicle.

Conclusion with key takeaways

The Toyota Glanza facelift is aimed at urban hatchback buyers, while the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG focuses on affordable running costs. The Audi Q3 brings premium design and performance, and the Renault Duster Hybrid targets customers seeking better fuel efficiency in a midsize SUV.

Prices and final specifications will be confirmed during the launches. Buyers should wait for official details before making a booking.

Disclaimer

Some specifications and prices mentioned above are expected details based on reports and industry information. Final equipment, prices and availability may change at launch.

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