Expected to launch before Diwali 2025, the Maruti Escudo may slot between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, offering a spacious, feature-loaded compact SUV alternative under the Arena brand.
New Delhi, June 24, 2025 — Maruti Suzuki is reportedly preparing to launch a new SUV named Maruti Escudo, a familiar moniker internationally, now likely being reintroduced for the Indian market. If reports hold true, the Escudo will be positioned between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara, targeting buyers looking for a balance between affordability and premium features in the compact SUV space.
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Positioned Between Brezza and Grand Vitara
Codenamed Y17, the Escudo is expected to be based on Suzuki’s Global C platform, the same architecture that underpins the Grand Vitara. However, this iteration might come with a longer wheelbase to allow for increased cabin space, possibly hinting at a 7-seater layout. Unlike the Grand Vitara sold through Nexa, the Escudo will reportedly be retailed via Maruti’s Arena dealerships, making it more accessible and competitively priced.
Expected Design & Platform Tweaks
Design-wise, early speculation suggests the Escudo will carry a more upright and squared-off stance, contrasting with the sleeker Grand Vitara. Expect toned-down cladding, a bold grille, and a tall SUV presence, in line with Indian tastes for rugged design.
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Engine Options: Petrol and CNG Likely
Under the hood, the Escudo is expected to feature a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology, already seen on the Ertiga and Brezza. Transmission choices may include a 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearbox. A CNG variant is also likely, while a full hybrid powertrain may be skipped to keep the pricing below that of the Grand Vitara.
Cabin and Features: Premium Feel on a Budget
Inside, Maruti could introduce a new dashboard layout, larger touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and possibly a digital instrument cluster. Segment essentials like a panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats may also be offered, though some premium touches like an electronic parking brake might be omitted to maintain cost efficiency.
Safety: Aiming for 5-Star Bharat NCAP Rating
The Escudo could come with six airbags, ABS, ESC, three-point seatbelts for all seats, and a 360-degree camera. Higher trims might even include Level-1 ADAS, aligning with features offered by rivals like the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta. Maruti’s recent focus on safety hints that the Escudo may target a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.
Launch Timeline, Price & Rivals
Maruti is expected to launch the Escudo around September 2025, just ahead of Diwali. With a starting price around ₹9.7 lakh (ex-showroom), the SUV will likely overlap with top Brezza variants and undercut the base Grand Vitara. This pricing could make it a compelling option in the hotly contested compact SUV market, challenging:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- Honda Elevate
- MG Astor
- Maruti Grand Vitara (Nexa)
As India’s SUV market continues to expand, the Maruti Escudo could help the automaker fortify its position by offering a practical, tech-packed, and competitively priced product in a fast-growing segment.
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