The Maruti Suzuki Invicto, launched in July 2023, has been stirring the Indian car market. This feature-rich MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) marks Maruti Suzuki's entry into the premium segment. But how well are sales stacking up against its close cousin, the Toyota Innova Hycross (essentially the same car with a different badge)?

The Invicto enjoyed a strong debut, selling over 750 units in its first month. This initial momentum was fueled by over 10,000 bookings. However, recent reports indicate a decline in sales, with June 2024 figures dipping to 128 units. This raises questions about the Invicto's long-term sales trajectory.

Why might some buyers be hesitating? The Invicto shares its platform and engine with the Innova Hycross, leading to similarities in features and performance. While the Invicto offers a slight price advantage, the Innova Hycross boasts the legacy of the Innova brand, a name synonymous with reliability and durability in India since 2007. This established reputation for quality gives Toyota a significant edge. Additionally, Maruti Suzuki is not known for selling luxury MPVs in the above 23-25 lakh price range. While they are a trusted brand for budget-friendly and fuel-efficient cars, convincing Indian customers to spend a premium on a Maruti Suzuki MPV might be a challenge.

The Invicto's future hinges on multiple factors. Maruti Suzuki will need to address the recent sales dip and leverage their brand's strong service network to build trust. As the Indian market gets accustomed to the idea of a premium MPV, the Invicto has the potential to carve a niche for itself. Its success will depend on effectively communicating the advantages of a luxurious MPV experience over a traditional SUV, especially for large families and those seeking a more comfortable travel experience.