Maruti Suzuki gears up to launch the Escudo SUV this festive season larger than the Brezza, more affordable than the Grand Vitara
Maruti Escudo: A Strategic Masterstroke Between Brezza and Grand Vitara
India’s largest carmaker is preparing to launch what could be its most strategically positioned SUV yet the Maruti Escudo. Slated for a Diwali 2025 debut, the Escudo is designed to fill the sweet spot between the sub-4m Brezza and the premium Grand Vitara, both in terms of size and pricing.
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Codenamed Y17, the Escudo will be sold via Maruti’s Arena dealerships, not Nexa, making it more accessible to mass-market buyers. It’s expected to be priced between ₹9.5 lakh and ₹15 lakh, undercutting the Grand Vitara while offering more space and features than the Brezza.
Why It Matters:
- Segment sweet spot: Targets buyers who want more than Brezza but can’t stretch to Grand Vitara
- Arena network advantage: Wider reach in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
- Direct rivals: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq
The Escudo is expected to be built on Suzuki’s Global C platform, the same as the Grand Vitara, but with a longer wheelbase for improved cabin and boot space. This makes it ideal for Indian families looking for a practical yet stylish SUV.
Features, Design & Cabin: Premium Feel Without the Premium Price
While the Escudo may borrow design cues from the Grand Vitara, it’s expected to sport a distinct identity with a more upright stance, squared-off wheel arches, and a bold front grille. The SUV will likely feature LED headlamps, dual-tone paint options, and chunky alloy wheels to enhance its road presence.
Interior Highlights:
- 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster
- Ventilated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Wireless phone charger
- 360-degree camera (top variants)
Despite being positioned below the Grand Vitara, the Escudo won’t skimp on comfort. Expect ample rear legroom, flat floor design, and larger boot space perfect for long road trips or urban family hauls.
Safety Features (Expected):
- Six airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill-hold assist
- Rear parking sensors and camera
- Possibly Level-1 ADAS on top trims
Maruti is also rumoured to be targeting a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, aligning with its recent push for safer vehicles.
Engine, Mileage & Variants: Power Meets Practicality
Under the hood, the Escudo is expected to offer multiple powertrain options, catering to both performance seekers and fuel-efficiency enthusiasts.
Engine Options:
| Variant Type | Engine | Transmission | Power Output |
| Petrol | 1.5L NA mild-hybrid | 5MT / 6AT | 103 bhp |
| Hybrid (Top) | 1.5L Atkinson + e-motor | e-CVT | 115 bhp |
| CNG (Optional) | 1.5L NA CNG | 5MT | ~88 bhp |
The mild-hybrid petrol will be the mainstay, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. The strong hybrid variant if launched will appeal to eco-conscious buyers, while the CNG option could attract budget-focused urban users.
Mileage Estimates:
- Petrol MT: ~18.5 km/l
- Petrol AT: ~17.2 km/l
- Hybrid: ~27 km/l (claimed)
- CNG: ~26 km/kg
The Escudo is also expected to offer 2WD and optional AWD (AllGrip) on select variants, giving it an edge over rivals in terms of versatility.
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer in the Making?
The Maruti Escudo is shaping up to be a category disruptor. With its larger dimensions, feature-rich cabin, and aggressive pricing, it’s poised to challenge the dominance of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos in the mid-size SUV space.
By leveraging its Arena dealership network, Maruti is ensuring the Escudo reaches a wider audience especially in semi-urban and rural markets where Nexa’s footprint is limited. If executed well, the Escudo could become Maruti’s next blockbuster, much like the Brezza did in its early days.
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Also read – Maruti Grand Vitara 3-Row: The Bold New 7-Seater SUV India’s Been Waiting For
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