Maruti’s Big Bet: A New SUV for Arena Buyers

Maruti Suzuki is all set to make a big splash on September 3 with its all new SUV for Arena showrooms. Likely to be called the Escudo, this new model will sit above the Brezza and below the Grand Vitara, giving Arena customers a long awaited flagship option.

The big hook? The Maruti ARENA SUV price is expected to be aggressive and undercut rivals like Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos while offering premium features never seen before in Arena cars.

A Design That Stands Out

Spy images reveal a bold, muscular stance with a high set hood, squared off arches and sleek LED signatures. Unlike the Grand Vitara, this SUV looks tougher and more upright, for buyers who want a confident road presence.

It’s clearly designed to grab attention – and to make sure Arena finally has an SUV that feels aspirational.

Features That Punch Above Its Class

Maruti isn’t playing safe with features this time. Expected highlights include:

• 9 inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• 360 degree camera for easy parking and urban driving
• Head up display for premium feel
• Powered tailgate (a first for Arena)
• Dolby Atmos audio system for a richer cabin experience
• A rumored Level 2 ADAS suite for advanced safety

In short, this SUV is going to blur the line between Maruti’s budget friendly Arena cars and its premium Nexa lineup.

Powertrains to Cover All Bases

Under the hood, the new SUV will share engines with the Grand Vitara:

• 1.5L petrol (103hp) with manual and automatic options
• Strong hybrid petrol (116hp) with e-CVT, delivering segment best efficiency (around 28 kmpl)
• Factory CNG option with an underbody tank – a segment first that keeps boot space intact

Higher trims may even get an optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, something few rivals in this price band offer.

Maruti ARENA SUV Price: The Big Question

The biggest question is the Maruti ARENA SUV price. Industry reports suggest the ex-showroom price could start around ₹9.75 lakh, going up to ₹18.5 lakh for the top-end hybrid or AWD variants. So it’s up against Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun – but with Maruti’s unparalleled service network and brand equity as added advantages.

Why This Matters

For years, Arena buyers have lacked a true mid size SUV. This launch fills that gap. With bold design, hybrid efficiency, CNG option and aggressive pricing, Maruti has a chance to disrupt Creta’s reign.

If priced right, this could be Maruti’s biggest hit of 2025.

FAQs

What mileage can buyers expect?
The strong-hybrid should return up to 28 kmpl, while the standard petrol offers around 20 kmpl, similar to the Grand Vitara.

Will it be a 7-seater SUV?
No, it will be a 5-seater SUV, positioned directly against mid-size SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.