Published on: June 24, 2025
By: Auto Insight Desk
Estimated Read Time: 6 Minutes
Views: 19.1K+
Table of Contents
Escudo Maruti Suzuki is preparing to make waves in the ever-competitive Indian SUV market once again. After successfully launching models like the Brezza and Grand Vitara, the company is reportedly working on a new compact SUV named the “Maruti Escudo.” This new model might sit-strategically-between-the-Brezza-and-Grand-Vitara-and-could-serve-as-a-direct-rival-to-the-Hyundai-Creta,-Kia-Seltos,-and-other-mid-size-SUVs-in-India.
While details are still emerging, here’s a detailed breakdown of what the Maruti Es-cudo could offer.
🔍 What Is the Maruti Escudo?
The name “Es-cudo” might sound familiar to global SUV fans—it has long been used for Suzuki’s Vitara in countries like Japan. Now, Maruti Suzuki appears ready to revive the badge for India, tailoring it for a mass-market audience that desires style, space, and practicality without paying a premium.
Positioned between the Brezza (sub-4m SUV) and the Grand Vitara (premium SUV), the Escudo is expected to carve its niche in the mid-compact SUV segment.
📍 Platform, Positioning & Dealership Strategy
The Escudo is likely to be based on the same Global C platform as the Grand Vitara, though it may get some reconfiguration—particularly a longer wheelbase for better rear-seat comfort and cabin space.
Key Highlights:
- Expected Platform: Suzuki Global C
- Positioning: Between Brezza and Grand Vitara
- Sales Channel: Likely through Arena dealerships (not Nexa)
- Target Audience: Family buyers looking for space and SUV presence at an affordable price point
✨ Maruti Escudo – Quick Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Segment | Compact SUV (Between Brezza & Grand Vitara) |
| Expected Launch | September 2025 (Pre-Diwali) |
| Expected Price | Starting around ₹9.7 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Platform | Suzuki Global C (Modified) |
| Engine Options | 1.5L NA petrol (Mild-hybrid), CNG option likely |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual, 6-speed Automatic |
| Dealership Channel | Arena (Not Nexa) |
| Revals | Hyundai-Creta,-Kia-Seltos,-V_W-Taigun,-Skoda-Kushaq,-Honda-Elevate,-MG-Astor |
| Expected Features | Panoramic Sunroof, Digital Cluster, Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Expected Safety | 6 Airbags, ESC, 360° Camera, Bharat NCAP 5-star aim |
🛠️ Design Language – Rugged Yet Urban
Although the full exterior design hasn’t been officially unveiled, expect the Escudo to sport a boxier stance with a more upright front fascia, deviating from the sleek look of the Grand Vitara.
- Chunkier SUV look, less chrome-heavy
- Squared wheel arches with subtle cladding
- Likely bold LED DRLs and projector headlamps
- More road presence than Brezza, more affordability than Grand Vitara
⚙️ Engine & Powertrain Options
The-Maruti-Escudo-will-likely-carry-forward-the-trusted-1.5-litre-naturally-aspirated-petrol-engine-that-already-powers-the-Ertiga,-Brezza,-and-Ciaz. It could also feature Maruti’s mild-hybrid tech to enhance fuel efficiency.
Additionally, a CNG variant may also be introduced later, following Maruti’s push for affordable alternative fuels.
- Petrol Engine: 1.5L NA Petrol
- Hybrid-Tech:-Mild-hybrid-(no-full-hybrid-to-reduce-cost)
- Transmissions: 5-speed MT & 6-speed AT
- CNG Version: Expected post-launch
🖥️ Cabin Experience & Interior Features
Inside, the Escudo is expected to get a new dashboard layout with modern elements to attract young buyers and families alike.
Anticipated Interior Features:
- Large touchscreen infotainment system (9–10 inch)
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Panoramic sunroof (likely top variants)
- Rear AC vents, fast charging ports
- Ventilated front seats (likely for top trims)
- Fabric or dual-tone leatherette upholstery
What might be missed: Advanced features like electronic parking brake or full hybrid tech, which are present in the Grand Vitara.
🛡️ Safety – Maruti’s Newfound Focus
Maruti is finally focusing on vehicle safety as a priority, and the Escudo is expected to reflect that. With 6 airbags, ESC, rear parking sensors, three-point seatbelts for all passengers, and even the possibility of Level 1 ADAS features, Escudo may position itself as a strong safety performer.
The brand is likely aiming for a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, just as it has for several of its recent models.
⏰ Launch Timeline, Price & Competition
The Maruti Escudo is expected to hit showrooms around September 2025, just in time for the Diwali festival season, which sees a major surge in car sales.
Expected Pricing:
- Starting at around ₹9.7 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Top trims may go up to ₹13.5 lakh
- Smartly priced below the Grand Vitara’s base model
Key Competitors:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Honda Elevate
- MG Astor
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- Maruti Grand Vitara (Nexa)
🔚 Final Thoughts: Is Escudo Worth the Wait?
With the Maruti Escudo, the brand seems poised to fill a sweet spot between affordability and premium features in the compact SUV segment. If priced right and offered with all the expected features, it could disrupt the dominance of Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Maruti’s-strategy-to-sell-the-Escudo-via-Arena-dealerships-could-make-it-more-accessible-to-buyers-in-Tier-2-and-Tier-3-cities-too.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Escudo’s official reveal, full features list, and booking details as we approach its expected September 2025 launch.
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