Complete Price & Specifications Comparison for Indian Families
The Moment Indian Families Have Been Waiting For
Mark your calendars—February and March 2026 are set to be game-changing months for Indian families shopping for spacious, practical SUVs. After years of waiting for affordable 7-seater options that don’t sacrifice efficiency or comfort, the market is finally delivering.
Three major family-focused SUVs are launching in the next few weeks: the Renault Duster (New Generation), the Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row, and the Toyota 3-Row SUV. Each brings a distinct approach to family motoring, and the competition between them is fierce.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know—prices, engines, features, seating comfort, fuel efficiency, and honest comparisons—to help you decide which upcoming SUV is right for your family.
The Three Contenders: What’s Launching When
| Model | Official Launch Date | Booking Status | Key Launch Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renault Duster (New Gen) | March 15, 2026 (estimated) | Open at ₹21,000 | Unveiled Jan 26; prices March 2026 |
| Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row | February 15, 2026 | Not yet open | Expected February mid-launch |
| Toyota 3-Row SUV | February 15, 2026 | Not yet open | Expected same-day launch as Maruti variant |
RENAULT DUSTER (NEW GENERATION) – THE COMEBACK STORY
Launch Timeline: Prices on March 15, 2026
After a 5-year absence from India, Renault returns with a completely reimagined Duster—and this time, it’s bringing the fight. The new Duster was officially unveiled on January 26, 2026, and pre-bookings opened immediately at ₹21,000. The actual pricing reveal happens in March, but estimated prices are already making waves.
The Platform Revolution: CMF-B
The new Duster sits on the CMF-B platform—a collaborative architecture developed by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. This modular design is engineered for:
- Reduced production costs (passed to consumers)
- Better ride quality on Indian roads
- Lightweight construction for improved efficiency
- Future-proofing for electric powertrains
The CMF-B platform is the same one powering the new-generation Nissan Magnite and other global models, so Renault brings genuine international engineering to India.
Engine Options & Fuel Efficiency
Here’s where the Duster gets interesting. Renault is offering three distinct powertrains, each with different strengths:
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission | Claimed Mileage | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Petrol | 999cc NA | 99 PS | ~150 Nm | Manual only | 18-20 kmpl | ₹9.49–₹10.49L |
| Turbo Petrol | 1.3L Turbo | 160 PS | ~200 Nm | Manual / DCT Auto | 16-18 kmpl | ₹11.99–₹15.79L |
| Strong Hybrid | 1.8L + motors | 163 PS | 172 Nm | Automatic (TC) | 22-24 kmpl | ₹17.99–₹18.89L |
The Star: The Strong Hybrid Engine
The 1.8L strong hybrid is the real innovation. This powertrain combines:
- 163 PS petrol engine with two electric motors
- 172 Nm torque for adequate highway performance
- EV-only mode for up to 80% of city driving (city traffic is mostly electric)
- Regenerative braking that charges the battery during deceleration
- 22-24 km/l real-world efficiency in mixed driving
For context, that’s genuinely competitive with Toyota Innova Hycross (₹19.5+ lakh) but at ₹18 lakh—a ₹1.5+ lakh advantage.
The Turbo Advantage
The 1.3L turbo petrol is a smart middle ground:
- 160 PS is enough for confident highway overtaking
- Manual versions start at ₹11.99 lakh (excellent budget positioning)
- Automatic (DCT) at ₹13.29–15.79 lakh for convenience
- 16-18 km/l is respectable for a turbo SUV
Real-World Buyer Insight: Families choosing between hybrid and turbo should ask: “Do I spend ₹6 lakh extra upfront for the hybrid to save ₹2 lakh in fuel over 5 years?” If keeping the car 7+ years, hybrid wins. If trading in after 5 years, the turbo makes economic sense.
Interior & Feature Breakdown
Renault has made a major push on the cabin—this is where the new Duster justifies its price:
Infotainment & Tech:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen + 10.25-inch digital driver display (dual-screen setup)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
- ADAS with 17 functions (adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, autonomous emergency braking, traffic-sign recognition)
- 360-degree camera
- Wireless phone charger (standard on higher trims)
Comfort Features:
- Panoramic sunroof (creates an airy cabin feel)
- Ventilated front seats (critical for Indian summer)
- Dual-zone climate control
- Soft-touch dashboard materials (premium feel)
- Door pockets with bottle holders
- Central armrest storage
Safety Package:
- 6 airbags (dual front, side, curtain)
- Electronic stability control
- Tyre pressure monitoring
- Hill-start assist / hill-descent control
- Euro NCAP 3-star rating (globally validated safety)
Storage & Practicality:
- 518-litre boot space
- 212mm ground clearance (good for Indian roads)
- Foldable rear seats for flexible cargo configurations
- Multiple cupholders and storage pockets
Seating Configuration & Comfort
The Duster is a pure 5-seater—no third row. But the execution matters:
- First Row: Spacious with good thigh support. The driver’s seat has height adjustment for optimal positioning.
- Second Row: Genuinely spacious for two adults, with ample legroom even for passengers over 6 feet tall.
- Access: Large door openings and low sill height make ingress/egress easy—important for families with elderly members or kids.
Honest Assessment: This isn’t a 7-seater, so families needing true 7-seat capacity should consider the Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row instead. But if you’re a family of 4-5, the Duster’s 5-seat comfort is superior to cramped 7-seater third rows.
Standout Advantages
- Strong Hybrid with EV Mode: 80% electric city driving is genuinely transformative for daily commutes.
- Global Engineering Credibility: CMF-B platform is internationally validated; Duster has earned a 3-star Euro NCAP rating.
- Value Hybrid: At ₹17.99–18.89 lakh, it’s the most affordable strong hybrid SUV in India.
- Turbo Performance Option: 160 PS turbo at ₹11.99 lakh (manual) is an unbeatable value for performance seekers.
- ADAS Standard: 17-function ADAS at this price point is genuinely rare—usually reserved for ₹20L+ vehicles.
Booking & Availability
- Booking Amount: ₹21,000
- Price Reveal: March 15, 2026
- Turbo Availability: From mid-March 2026
- Hybrid Availability: Post-Diwali 2026 (delayed to manage demand)
MARUTI GRAND VITARA 3-ROW – THE AFFORDABLE FAMILY GIANT
Launch: February 15, 2026
Maruti is about to upend the 7-seater SUV segment with the Grand Vitara 3-row variant—the first genuine 7-seater in India priced aggressively under ₹15 lakh. If you’ve been waiting for affordable family motoring, this is the moment.
The Game-Changing Proposition
At approximately ₹14 lakh (estimated for the hybrid base model), the Grand Vitara 3-row is positioned to be the cheapest true 7-seater SUV in India. For context:
- Mahindra XUV 7XO: Starts at ₹13.66 lakh (but launched January 5)
- Kia Seltos Plus (5-seater): ₹11–21 lakh
- Maruti Creta (5-seater): ₹11–19 lakh
The Grand Vitara 3-row redefines value in the family SUV segment.
Engine Options & Real-World Efficiency
Maruti is retaining proven powertrains from the standard Grand Vitara, but slightly detuned for the added weight:
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission | Claimed Mileage | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (Mild Hybrid) | 1.5L NA | 103 PS | 138 Nm | Manual / Auto | 21.11 kmpl | ~₹13–14L |
| Strong Hybrid | 1.5L + motors | 115-120 PS | 150+ Nm | e-CVT (Auto only) | 27.97 kmpl | ~₹14–14.5L (est.) |
The Efficiency Champion: Strong Hybrid
The 1.5L strong hybrid is identical to the engine in the Toyota Innova Hycross and Urban Cruiser Hyryder—proven, reliable, and efficient:
- 27.97 km/l claimed efficiency—among the highest for any SUV segment
- Real-world city figures: 23.77 km/l (tested independently)
- Real-world highway figures: 20.39 km/l
- EV mode: Operates in pure electric mode for 1-2 km in stop-and-go traffic
- Regenerative braking: Captures energy during deceleration
For a family doing 15,000 km/year:
- Monthly fuel cost: ₹8,000–9,000 (vs. ₹12,000+ for equivalent petrol)
- Annual fuel savings vs. petrol: ₹36,000–50,000
- 5-year fuel savings: ₹1.8–2.5 lakh
This is genuinely transformative for middle-class families.
Seating Layout & Third-Row Comfort (The Honest Truth)
Unlike many 7-seaters, where the third row is an afterthought, Maruti has thoughtfully engineered the Grand Vitara 3-row for realistic family use:
Second Row (Most Important):
- Spacious for two large adults with abundant legroom
- Recline function (critical for longer drives)
- Ventilated seats (first-in-segment at this price)
- Individual AC vents and blower control
- Center armrest
- Door storage with bottle holders
- Real estate: 4 fist-widths between passenger and front seat
Third Row (Realistic Assessment):
- Best for children or adults up to 5’8″ tall
- Acceptable for 2-3 hour drives (beyond that, cramped feeling develops)
- Individual AC vents with blower control
- USB charging ports
- Foldable seats expand the boot to 155+ litres
- One-touch tumble on the co-driver’s side for easy access
Parking & Access:
- Longer rear doors (vs. 5-seater version) for easier third-row ingress
- Wide rear overhang for easy boot access
- Low step-in height (good for children and the elderly)
Design & Exterior Updates
Compared to the standard 5-seater Grand Vitara, the 3-row features:
- Noticeably longer body: Extended wheelbase adds genuine third-row space
- Refreshed LED DRLs: Sleeker daytime running lights
- Connected LED taillights: Modern, e-Vitara-inspired design
- Updated alloy wheels: New design (up to 18 inches)
- Longer rear doors: Easier third-row access
- 210mm ground clearance: Maintained from the standard model
- Panoramic sunroof: Airy cabin feel (standard on most trims)
Interior & Feature Set
Maruti is keeping the interior experience premium without unnecessary gimmicks:
Infotainment & Tech:
- Large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
- Connected car features with OTA updates
- 360-degree camera (brilliant for parking)
- Wireless phone charger
Comfort Features:
- Panoramic sunroof with retractable shades
- Ventilated front seats (summer-essential in India)
- Dual-zone climate control with individual rear vents
- Soft-touch dashboard materials
- Good quality upholstery on mid and higher variants
- Ample storage pockets throughout the cabin
Safety Package:
- 6 airbags (standard across variants)
- Electronic stability control
- ISOFIX child seat mounts on the second row
- 360-degree camera
- Tyre pressure monitoring
- Note: No ADAS suite (a minor gap vs. Renault Duster’s 17 functions)
The Maruti Advantage: Service Network
This is crucial: Maruti has 16,000+ authorised service centres in India—unmatched in the industry. For a family buying a car for 7-10 years of ownership, this means:
- Service accessibility: Never more than 5-10 km away in any city
- Spare parts availability: Commonality with Toyota parts (50% lower cost vs. Mahindra/Renault)
- Service cost: ₹5,130 average per service (cheapest in segment)
- Resale value: Maruti holds value better than most brands
Fuel Economy Deep Dive
Let’s be specific about what the numbers mean:
Claimed vs. Real-World (Grand Vitara Hybrid):
- Claimed: 27.97 km/l
- Real city: 23.77 km/l (86% of claimed)
- Real highway: 20.39 km/l (73% of claimed)
- Average mixed: 22 km/l (realistic expectation)
Monthly Fuel Cost Calculation (15,000 km/year at ₹100/litre):
- Petrol version (21.11 km/l): ₹71,000/year = ₹5,916/month
- Hybrid version (27.97 km/l): ₹53,800/year = ₹4,483/month
- Monthly savings: ₹1,433
Over 5 years: ₹86,000 in fuel savings (before accounting for fuel price increases).
Standout Advantages
- Affordable 7-seater: At ~₹14 lakh, it’s the cheapest genuine 7-seater SUV available.
- Exceptional fuel efficiency: 27.97 km/l is class-leading for any 7-seater.
- Proven hybrid technology: Same engine as Toyota’s best sellers—reliability validated.
- Unmatched service network: 16,000+ centres vs. competitors’ 900-1,500.
- Second-row ventilation: First in segment at this price—game-changing for Indian summers.
- Resale value: Maruti holds value better than Renault or Mahindra.
The Honest Limitations
- No ADAS: Safety features like adaptive cruise or lane-keep assist are absent (major gap vs. Renault Duster’s 17 functions).
- Third-row practicality: Best for children; adults over 5’8″ will feel cramped on long drives.
- Performance: 115-120 PS is adequate, not sporty. Overtaking requires planning.
- Diesel option: Unavailable (Maruti’s strategy).
Booking & Availability
- Expected Launch Date: February 15, 2026
- Booking Status: Not yet open (expected to open Feb 1-10, 2026)
- Estimated Starting Price: ₹13–14 lakh for base hybrid
- Deliveries: March 2026 onwards
TOYOTA 3-ROW SUV – THE PREMIUM ALTERNATIVE
Launch: February 15, 2026 (Expected Simultaneous)
Details are sparse, but Toyota is launching a 3-row hybrid SUV on the same day as Maruti—leveraging the long Toyota-Maruti partnership. This will likely be a badge-engineered or standalone variant positioned as the premium choice in the ₹14 lakh segment.
What We Know (And What We’re Inferring)
Based on the partnership structure and industry patterns:
| Aspect | Expected Specs |
|---|---|
| Platform | Likely Maruti’s global C platform (shared development) |
| Engine | 1.5L strong hybrid (115-120 PS) |
| Seating | 7-seater (identical to Maruti 3-row) |
| Transmission | e-CVT automatic (possibly also manual options) |
| Claimed Mileage | 27-28 km/l |
| Expected Price | ₹14–15 lakh (estimated) |
| Launch Date | February 15, 2026 |
Toyota’s Positioning Strategy
Toyota will likely differentiate through:
- Brand Prestige: Toyota badge carries premium perception
- Warranty & Service: Toyota’s reputation for customer service
- Build Quality: Slightly different tuning and interior materials
- Feature Differentiation: Possibly exclusive features vs. Maruti variant
- Ownership Experience: Premium positioning justifies ₹1 lakh price premium
The Toyota-Maruti Partnership
This isn’t new—the same partnership produces:
- Urban Cruiser Hyryder (Toyota) / Maruti Vitara Brezza (Maruti)
- Toyota Innova Hycross / Maruti XL6 (both marketed independently)
In each case, Toyota versions are priced ₹1–1.5 lakh higher but share the same basic platform and engines. This approach gives buyers two distinct positioning options while keeping production costs low.
Expected Features & Differentiators
Based on Toyota’s pattern with the Urban Cruiser Hyryder:
Standard Features (vs. Maruti):
- 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
- Digital driver display
- Connected car features
- 360-degree camera
- Ventilated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof
Possible Premium Additions:
- JBL sound system (vs. basic audio)
- Premium leather upholstery (vs. Maruti’s fabric)
- Electrically adjustable driver’s seat (vs. manual)
- Level 2 ADAS (vs. no ADAS on Maruti)
- Sunroof with more automation
Standout Advantages
- Toyota Reliability Perception: Strong brand trust in India
- Service Consistency: Toyota’s premium after-sales network
- Feature Differentiation: Likely ADAS and premium audio vs. base Maruti
- Warranty: Potentially better warranty terms
- Residual Value: Toyota holds value slightly better than Maruti in premium positioning
Booking & Availability
- Expected Launch: February 15, 2026
- Booking Status: Not yet open
- Estimated Price: ₹14–15 lakh
- Deliveries: March 2026 onwards
SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON: Which SUV for Your Family?
| Parameter | Renault Duster | Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row | Toyota 3-Row SUV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5-seater | 7-seater | 7-seater |
| Starting Price | ₹9.49L (base petrol) | ₹13–14L (estimated) | ₹14–15L (estimated) |
| Claimed Mileage | 22-24 kmpl (hybrid) | 27.97 kmpl | ~27-28 kmpl |
| Real-World Efficiency | ~20-22 kmpl (hybrid) | 22 kmpl mixed | ~22 kmpl mixed |
| ADAS Features | ✓ 17 functions | ✗ None | ✓ Likely 8-12 functions |
| Panoramic Sunroof | ✗ No | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | ✓ Front | ✓ Front | ✓ Front (+ rear) |
| Wireless Charger | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Likely |
| 360° Camera | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Service Network | Limited (500-800) | Exceptional (16,000+) | Good (900+) |
| Spare Parts Cost | Standard | Cheapest | Standard |
| Third-Row Comfort | N/A | Good (<5’8″) | Good (<5’8″) |
| Best For | 5-seater families | Budget + fuel efficiency | Toyota brand loyalty |
| Warranty (typical) | 3 yrs / 100k km | 3 yrs / 100k km | 3 yrs / 100k km |
| Crash Test Rating | 3-star Euro NCAP | Unrated (pending) | Unrated (pending) |
Real Family Scenarios: Which to Choose
Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious Family of 4
Profile: Parents + 2 children, ₹13–14 lakh budget, 15,000 km/year, city-focused driving
Best Choice: Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row Hybrid (~₹14L)
Why:
- Exceptional fuel efficiency (27.97 km/l) keeps monthly costs at ₹4,500
- Maruti’s 16,000 service centres ensure accessibility anywhere in India
- 7-seater flexibility for occasional family gatherings
- Spare parts are cheapest in the segment
- ₹1 lakh savings vs. the Toyota variant can go toward an extended warranty
5-Year Cost of Ownership:
- Fuel: ₹2.78 lakh (at ₹100/liter)
- Maintenance: ₹1.2 lakh
- Total: ₹4 lakh
Scenario 2: Performance-Focused Family
Profile: Young parents, ₹12–15 lakh budget, 20,000 km/year (50% highway), want fun driving
Best Choice: Renault Duster Turbo (₹11.99–15.79L)
Why:
- 160 PS turbo provides highway confidence and overtaking ease
- CMF-B platform engineering delivers superior ride quality
- ADAS features (17 functions) offer modern safety
- Turbo at ₹11.99L (manual) is an unbeatable value
- Manual transmission appeals to driving enthusiasts
- 5-seater focus means no compromises for family comfort
5-Year Cost of Ownership:
- Fuel: ₹3.75 lakh (16-18 km/l on turbo)
- Maintenance: ₹1.5 lakh
- Total: ₹5.25 lakh
Scenario 3: Extended Family Needs
Profile: Family of 6-7 (including grandparents), occasional long drives, ₹14–15L budget
Best Choice: Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row Hybrid (~₹14L)
Why:
- Only genuinely affordable 7-seater available
- Hybrid efficiency doesn’t compromise despite the extra weight
- An extended family can fit for trips without renting two cars
- Fold-flat third row provides cargo space when not in use
- Ventilated second row critical for grandparents’ comfort in Indian heat
5-Year Cost of Ownership:
- Fuel: ₹2.78 lakh
- Maintenance: ₹1.2 lakh
- Total: ₹4 lakh
Scenario 4: Toyota-Brand Loyalist
Profile: Wants premium positioning, Toyota ownership experience, ₹15L budget
Best Choice: Toyota 3-Row SUV (~₹14–15L)
Why:
- Toyota badge carries prestige and brand trust
- Likely ADAS features vs. no ADAS on base Maruti
- Premium interior materials justify the ₹1 lakh price difference
- Toyota’s warranty and after-sales reputation
- 7-seater configuration with Toyota engineering
5-Year Cost of Ownership:
- Fuel: ~₹2.78 lakh (same as Maruti)
- Maintenance: ₹1.3 lakh (slightly higher)
- Total: ₹4.08 lakh
The Fuel Economy Reality Check
Let’s be brutally honest about efficiency claims vs. real-world numbers:
Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row Hybrid:
- Claimed: 27.97 km/l
- Real city (50% highway): 22 km/l
- Real highway (constant speed): 20.39 km/l
- Average family use: 22 km/l is realistic
Renault Duster Turbo:
- Claimed: 16-18 km/l
- Real city: 15-16 km/l
- Real highway: 17-18 km/l
- Average family use: 16 km/l is realistic
Cost Comparison (Annual, 15,000 km at ₹100/litre):
- Maruti Hybrid: ₹54,000/year
- Renault Turbo: ₹94,000/year
- Annual difference: ₹40,000
That’s ₹3,333/month difference—enough to offset the price difference over the car’s life.
Safety & Crash Test Ratings
This matters most when family safety is at stake:
| Feature | Duster | Grand Vitara 3-row | Toyota 3-row |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 (dual, side, curtain) | 6 (standard) | 6-7 (estimated) |
| ADAS Suite | ✓ 17 functions | ✗ None | ✓ Likely 8+ functions |
| 360° Camera | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Child Safety | ISOFIX | ISOFIX | ISOFIX |
| Crash Test Rating | 3-star Euro NCAP | Pending Bharat NCAP | Pending Bharat NCAP |
Key Insight: The Duster’s 3-star Euro NCAP rating is the only independently validated score among the three—a confidence builder for safety-conscious buyers.
Final Verdict: Your Decision Framework
Choose Renault Duster If You Want:
- 5-seater comfort (no third-row compromises)
- Strong hybrid with EV-mode city driving
- Advanced ADAS for modern safety
- Performance turbo option
- Global engineering credibility (Euro NCAP tested)
- Flexibility between efficiency and performance
Choose the Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row If You Want:
- Genuine 7-seater practicality
- Maximum fuel efficiency (27.97 km/l)
- Unmatched service network reliability
- Lowest fuel costs (₹40k/year vs. Duster turbo)
- First-in-segment ventilated second row
- Best long-term ownership value
Choose a Toyota 3-Row SUV If You Want:
- Toyota brand prestige and warranty
- Premium interior positioning
- Likely ADAS features
- 7-seater configuration with Toyota engineering
- Premium resale value perception
- Consistent after-sales experience
Timeline & Next Steps for Buyers
| Action | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Renault Duster Pre-booking | Open now (₹21,000) |
| Renault Duster Price Reveal | March 15, 2026 |
| Maruti Grand Vitara 3-row Launch | February 15, 2026 |
| Toyota 3-row SUV Launch | February 15, 2026 |
| First Deliveries | March-April 2026 (all models) |
Final Thoughts
February and March 2026 represent an inflexion point in India’s family SUV market. For the first time, genuine 7-seaters are becoming affordable, hybrid efficiency is reaching mainstream adoption, and modern safety tech is trickling down to mid-segment vehicles.
The competition between these three models will force improvements and drive innovation—ultimately benefiting Indian families. Whether you prioritise efficiency, space, brand prestige, or safety, one of these upcoming SUVs will align perfectly with your needs.
The real question isn’t whether to wait or buy—it’s which of these three upcoming vehicles best matches your family’s lifestyle.
Don’t miss the February-March 2026 launches. Your family’s perfect SUV is finally arriving.
Must Read: Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara: India’s Game-Changing Electric SUV with 543km Range – A Complete Guide
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