Maruti Suzuki is all set to heat up the mid-size SUV space with its upcoming Maruti Escudo, a strong hybrid SUV that blends power, efficiency, and practicality. Slated for a Diwali 2025 launch, the Escudo aims to fill the sweet spot between the Brezza and Grand Vitara in Marutiās SUV lineup.
Escudo means shield which symbolizes protection, strength, and defense. In automotive branding, this implies robustness, safety, or rugged utility.
š Why Maruti Escudo is in the News?
- Hybrid Tech Expansion: Escudo will feature both mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid powertrains.
- Arena Network Sales: Unlike Grand Vitara (sold via Nexa), Escudo will be available via the Arena channel.
- Festival Launch: A strategic launch during the festive season when auto sales peak.
- Toyota Collaboration: A rebadged version is expected from Toyota soon after.
š” Key Highlights
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Launch | Diwali 2025 |
| Platform | Global-C (shared with Brezza, Grand Vitara) |
| Engine Options | 1.5L Petrol (NA) + SHVS, 1.5L Strong Hybrid, CNG |
| Transmission | 5MT / 6AT / e-CVT |
| Expected Mileage | Up to 27 km/l (Hybrid), 26.6 km/kg (CNG) |
| Sales Channel | Arena dealerships |
| Expected Price Range | ā¹10 ā ā¹16 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Competition | Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Toyota Hyryder |
š§ Maruti Escudo – Powertrains Explained
ā” Mild-Hybrid (SHVS)
- 1.5L NA Petrol
- Approx. 103 PS power
- Fuel-efficient & affordable
ā½ Strong-Hybrid (Toyota TNGA)
- Electric motor + petrol engine
- Combined output ~116 PS
- Paired with e-CVT gearbox
- Likely to include Suzukiās AllGrip AWD tech
ā» CNG Variant
- Uses the same 1.5L petrol base engine
- Approx. 88 PS power
- High mileage with lower emissions
š¹ Design & Interiors
Escudo is expected to carry design elements from the Grand Vitara:
- Bold grille with chrome accents
- Split LED headlamps
- Dual-tone alloy wheels
- Premium dashboard layout with soft-touch elements
- Touchscreen infotainment (9-inch expected)
- Connected car features, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Sunroof, auto AC, and 360Ā° camera on higher variants
š Visual Comparison: Maruti SUV Lineup
| Model | Length (mm) | Fuel Type | Mileage | Sales Channel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brezza | ~3995 | Petrol / CNG | ~20ā26 km/l | Arena |
| Escudo (Y17) | ~4345 | Petrol / Hybrid / CNG | ~27 km/l | Arena |
| Grand Vitara | ~4345 | Petrol / Hybrid | ~27.9 km/l | Nexa |
Notes:
- Escudo (Y17) is expected to slot between Brezza and Grand Vitara in terms of positioning.
- All three offer mild or strong hybrid options, with Escudo likely to support CNG as well.
- Length & platform of Escudo and Grand Vitara suggest similar road presence.
- Mileage of Escudo and Grand Vitara makes them among the most fuel-efficient SUVs in India.
š Why It Matters
- Mass-Market Hybrid Push: Escudo brings hybrid tech to Arena showrooms, reaching more buyers.
- Value for Money: Combines space, performance, and fuel efficiency in a price-sensitive segment.
- Local Manufacturing: Built at Marutiās Kharkhoda (Haryana) plant, ensuring competitive pricing.
ā Expected Challenges
- Might cannibalize Grand Vitara’s mild-hybrid sales
- Strong hybrid pricing may go head-to-head with Toyota Hyryder
š Booking & Launch Timeline
- Revealed: Expected AugustāSeptember 2025
- Bookings Open: By October 2025
- Deliveries Start: From November 2025 (Diwali period)
š Final Verdict
With its hybrid flexibility, Arena accessibility, and festive launch timing, the Maruti Escudo is set to become a game-changer in the mid-size SUV space. It could be the perfect blend of tech, space, and efficiency that Indian families are looking for in 2025.
FAQs
When is the Maruti Escudo expected to launch in India?
The Maruti Escudo is expected to launch during Diwali 2025, with bookings opening in October.
What engine options will the Maruti Escudo offer?
It will offer three options: a 1.5L petrol with mild-hybrid, a 1.5L strong-hybrid (Toyota-sourced), and a CNG variant.
Will the Maruti Escudo be available through Nexa dealerships?
No, the Escudo will be sold via Marutiās Arena network, making it more accessible.
What is the expected mileage of the Maruti Escudo?
The strong hybrid version is expected to deliver up to 27 km/l, while the CNG variant could offer around 26.6 km/kg.
What will be the expected price of the Maruti Escudo?
The price is expected to start around ā¹10 lakh and go up to ā¹16 lakh (ex-showroom).
How is Escudo different from Grand Vitara?
While both share the same platform and powertrains, the Escudo will be sold through Arena with more mass-market positioning, potentially at a lower price point.
Will there be an AWD version of the Escudo?
Yes, the strong-hybrid variant is likely to offer Suzukiās AllGrip AWD system.
