If you’re avid automotive reader, you must have come across reports about the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder 7-seater versions. Maruti Suzuki has already confirmed a new premium three-row SUV, which is expected to be based on the Grand Vitara, while Toyota Kirloskar Motor appears to have begun testing the Hyryder 7-seater. The SUV was recently spotted testing in Ladakh.

AWD Variant On the Cards?

The spotted test mule appears longer than the standard Hyryder, featuring an extended rear overhand and an additional row of seats. Despite heavy camouflage concealing design details, the presence of the rear axle shafts hints the possible inclusion of the AllGrip (AWD – all-wheel drive) system.

The Maruti Grand Vitara’s 1.5L mild hybrid petrol-manual variant is currently the only version offered an AWD drivetrain system. Once launched, the Toyota Hyryder 7-seater will be positioned against the upcoming 7-seater Renault Duster and Maruti Grand Vitara SUVs along with the existing rivals such as the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and Hyundai Alcazar.

Premium Interior

The new Toyota Hyryder 7-seater is expected to look largely similar to its 5-seater sibling. This means, the SUV will feature a ‘Cystal Acrylic’ grille, LED headlamps with slender double-layer DRLs, alloy wheels, ‘Hybrid’ badges on the door, slim C-shaped taillamps with dual C-shaped LED elements.

Apart from the additional row of seats, the cabin layout and features are likely to remain similar to the 5-seater Hyryder. In order to differentiate it, Toyota might offer new trims, upholstery options and interior theme.

Powertrain Options

The 5-seater Toyota Hyryder is currently available with a 1.5L TNGA Atkinson Cycle engine, pushing out power worth 92bhp and 122Nm of torque. The engine comes paired with an electric motor, generating 79bhp and 141Nm. Its combined power output stands at 114bhp. A 1.5L K15C petrol engine is also on offer. This motor, with a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox, delivers a maximum power of 103bhp and 137Nm of torque.

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