Maruti Victoris gets Aurum Edition: a Rs 22,990 copper-look kit for hybrid models

Maruti Suzuki has marked one year of its Victoris SUV in the Indian market with an Aurum Edition. It is not a new version of the vehicle. It is a package of accessories that can be fitted on the car, and the company has priced it at Rs 22,990.

The kit comes with a condition. Buyers can take it only with the strong-hybrid variants of the Victoris. The ex-showroom price of these models begins at about Rs 16.43 lakh and goes up to Rs 19.99 lakh. Actor Shahid Kapoor has been signed for the advertising campaign around the edition.

The changes are mostly cosmetic. The basic design of the SUV stays as it is, but copper-coloured inserts are added to the front, side and rear skid plates and to the wheel arches. Chrome accessories are fitted on the front grille, fenders, bumpers, body-side mouldings and door visors, giving the vehicle a bolder look. The name Aurum comes from the Latin word for gold.

Inside, the kit adds all-weather 3D floor mats, a 3D boot mat and a rear trunk sill guard. The company says these are meant for comfort, safety and everyday convenience.

Nothing has changed under the bonnet. The Victoris is sold with three powertrain choices: a 1.5-litre petrol, a petrol-CNG and a 1.5-litre strong hybrid. The petrol engine makes 103.06 PS and 139 Nm of torque. The CNG variant makes 100.6 PS when running on petrol and 87.8 PS on CNG. The hybrid pairs a three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 116 bhp, and it can also run in pure electric mode. It is claimed to return 28.65 km per litre as per ARAI. Gearbox options are a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic and an e-CVT, and the hybrid uses the e-CVT automatic.

The edition follows a strong first year for the SUV. According to the company, the Victoris reached cumulative sales of 1 lakh and 1.5 lakh units faster than any other vehicle in India since launch. About 1.47 lakh units were sold in the first twelve months. The Aurum Edition is expected to appeal in particular to young buyers who want a distinctive look and modern, tech-friendly features along with hybrid efficiency.