What’s New with the Maruti Escudo?
Maruti Suzuki is about to launch a new mid-size SUV and it’s going to be the boldest move the brand has made in years. Expected to be called the Maruti Escudo, this SUV will sit between the Brezza and Grand Vitara with more space, stronger road presence and smart features all at an affordable price.
Launching Details
Maruti is eyeing a festive 2025 debut for the Escudo, with a launch expected between August and October. Unlike the Grand Vitara sold via Nexa, this SUV will roll out through Arena outlets, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
Target Audience
Young families looking to upgrade, city dwellers wanting a stylish yet sensible SUV, or loyal Maruti owners moving up from hatchbacks. With a possible CNG variant, even commercial buyers might find a sweet spot here. Arena’s wide network also makes this SUV a top choice for Tier 2 and Tier 3 buyers who value service reach.
Its Impact on the Market
This isn’t just another launch it’s Maruti going straight at the heart of the mid-size SUV segment, taking on the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Honda Elevate. With a body expected to be slightly longer than the Grand Vitara, competitive features and a starting price of ₹9.7 lakh, the Escudo will disrupt more than a few sales charts.
Its Performance
Escudo will get the 1.5L K15C petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech, making around 103 PS of power and 138 Nm of torque. You’ll likely get to pick between a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual or a refined 6-speed automatic, depending on the variant. A CNG variant is also in the pipeline which could offer 87 bhp and great efficiency.
What does this mean for you? A tried-and-tested engine, smooth daily performance and good mileage figures especially in today’s fuel conscious world.
Riding Experience
This SUV is all about comfort. Expect a soft suspension setup for Indian roads, a silent cabin, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof and digital instrument cluster to make your daily drive a delight. It’s the kind of SUV that doesn’t shout for attention but wins you over on every commute and weekend getaway.
Its Affordability
Maruti seems to be playing the smart card offering big car feel at an affordable price. By skipping the Nexa channel, the Escudo could undercut rivals like Creta and Seltos by a decent margin. Even with premium features like 360 degree camera and ambient lighting, prices are expected to start just under ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom).
Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Launch | August to October 2025 |
| Platform | Suzuki Global-C, shared with Grand Vitara |
| Seating Capacity | 5-Seater |
| Engine | 1.5L K15C Petrol with Mild Hybrid, Optional CNG |
| Power | ~103 PS (Petrol), ~87 bhp (CNG) |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual, 6-speed Automatic |
| Fuel Efficiency | 20–22 kmpl (Petrol), 26–27 km/kg (CNG), up to 27 kmpl (Hybrid, if offered) |
| Drive Type | FWD, optional AWD (on higher trims) |
| Touchscreen | 9.0-inch, Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay |
| Notable Features | Panoramic Sunroof, Ventilated Seats, 360 Camera, HUD |
| Safety | 6 Airbags, ESP, TPMS, Rear Camera, Hill-hold assist |
| Expected Price Range | From ₹9.7 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom, estimated) |
ALSO READ: Maruti Grand Vitara 2025: Now Safer, Smarter, and Hybrid-Friendly
FAQs
Q1: What engine will the Maruti Escudo use?
Escudo will have a 1.5L petrol mild-hybrid engine with manual and automatic options. CNG variant is also expected.
Q2: Will the Escudo be a 7-seater?
No, it’s a 5-seater SUV focusing on space and comfort for smaller families.
Q3: Is the Maruti Escudo a hybrid SUV?
A mild-hybrid setup is almost certain, while a strong hybrid may not make the cut if Maruti wants to keep prices in check
Q4: Will it be available in Tier 2 or Tier 3 cities?
Yes, since it will be sold through Arena dealerships expect it to be available across India including smaller towns.
Q5: How will the Escudo compare to the Grand Vitara?
It will be more affordable, may have more space, aimed at a broader audience but shares the same platform.
Conclusion
The Maruti Escudo isn’t just another SUV it’s a strategic move by India’s largest carmaker to strengthen its hold in the country’s most exciting segment. With trusted underpinnings, new design elements, practical powertrains and features for modern buyers the Escudo is shaping up to be a real value for money. If Maruti gets the pricing right this could be one of the most talked about launches of 2025.
