Maruti Escudo Hot Details Revealed

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch an all-new SUV in India soon, and it’s already creating quite a buzz. Expected to be called the Maruti Escudo, this upcoming model is likely to hit showrooms by the end of 2025. It will be positioned between the Maruti Brezza and the Grand Vitara.

Here is everything we know so far about the Maruti Suzuki Escudo SUV:

What is the Maruti Escudo?

Codenamed Y17, the Maruti Escudo is a brand-new SUV that will be sold exclusively through Maruti Suzuki's ARENA dealerships. The name "Escudo" has already been trademarked in India, hinting that this will likely be the final nameplate.

While Maruti initially planned to introduce this SUV as a 7-seater, the rising demand for 5-seater SUVs led to a change in strategy. The Escudo will now offer seating for five, so it can fill the gap between compact and full-size SUVs in Maruti's portfolio.

Also Read: Upcoming Maruti and Toyota SUVs Launching in FY2025-26

Positioned Between Brezza and Grand Vitara

The Escudo will slot neatly between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara, both in terms of pricing and size. It’s expected to be more affordable than the Grand Vitara, as the company is looking to create a new sub-category that balances affordability, features, and space.

Bigger Dimensions, More Cabin Space

Built on Suzuki’s Global C platform—which also underpins the Brezza and Grand Vitara—the Escudo will be longer than the Grand Vitara, which measures 4,345mm. With a longer wheelbase, expect improved legroom for rear passengers and a bigger boot compared to the Grand Vitara’s 373 litres.

The SUV is likely to offer comfortable second-row seating and a boot that's perfect for family road trips.

Modern Interior and Feature-Packed Cabin

Inside, the Maruti Escudo will get an all-new cabin layout. Spy shots suggest a vertical touchscreen infotainment system, larger than what we’ve seen on current Maruti models. It is expected to support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Some of the premium features expected in the new SUV include:

- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Digital driver’s display
- 360-degree camera
- Six airbags
- ESC and ADAS features

Engine Options: Petrol, CNG & Hybrid

Under the hood, the Maruti Escudo is expected to offer multiple powertrain choices:

- A 1.5-litre K15C petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech, paired with manual and 6-speed automatic gearbox options.
- A strong hybrid setup featuring a 92bhp, 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine combined with a 79bhp electric motor, delivering a combined output of 115bhp.
- A possible CNG variant for budget-conscious buyers.

Sales Strategy and Toyota Collaboration

The Escudo is expected to contribute an additional 1.5 to 2 lakh units in annual sales. Maruti Suzuki is also working closely with Toyota on this model. A Toyota-branded version is currently under development and is likely to launch in early 2026.

While the NEXA network will continue to promote premium models like the Grand Vitara, ARENA dealerships will focus on attracting mid-range SUV buyers with the Escudo.

Maruti Escudo Launch Timeline

Although the e-Vitara electric SUV is scheduled to go on sale by September 2025, the Maruti Escudo is expected to debut by the end of 2025, likely around the festive season.

Also Read: Tata Avinya EV, Next-Gen Nexon to Launch in 2027