KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Maruti Escudo SUV launch likely this festive season around September
- Shares Global C-Platform with the Grand Vitara
- To retail via Arena outlets as the most feature-rich offering in Arena portfolio
For a while, there were speculations of a 7-seater Maruti Grand Vitara and how it could possibly be a bigger sibling to the Nexa SUV. While potentially named the Maruti Escudo, it is definitely going to be bigger than the Vitara, but sitting a place below it, and that too, retailing via Arena outlets. The test mules have been spotted on multiple occasions already and with launch expected around this festive season, let's take a look at everything that it could offer at the launch, but first, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community of avid petrolheads to never miss out on any latest news and automotive updates.
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Maruti Escudo SUV: Slots Between Brezza And Grand Vitara
Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to introduce a new compact SUV, internally believed to carry the codename Y17, that will be positioned strategically between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara. This move aims to strengthen the brand's presence in the highly competitive compact SUV space by offering a product that balances affordability with practicality. The SUV is likely to be underpinned by a version of Suzuki's Global C platform, already in use with the Grand Vitara, though it may be reworked to feature a longer wheelbase for improved interior space and comfort.
Although it might share some components with the Grand Vitara, the upcoming model, rumoured to carry the Escudo nameplate internationally, is expected to come at a more accessible price point. In keeping with that positioning, Maruti is likely to retail this SUV through its Arena network, instead of the Nexa chain that currently handles more premium models like the Grand Vitara.
Interior And Features
The upcoming Escudo is poised to redefine the feature set offered under the Arena brand, aiming to be its most comprehensively equipped model yet. Inside, the cabin is set to debut an entirely new infotainment experience, centered around what's rumored to be the largest touchscreen ever seen in a Maruti vehicle, surpassing even the Grand Vitara's 9-inch unit. This digital hub will likely be complemented by a host of premium amenities, including a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats for enhanced comfort, a fully digital instrument cluster, and seamless wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. Modern conveniences like automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, and advanced connected car technology are also expected to be part of the package.
It's anticipated to come equipped with a robust array of protective features, including six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, all-wheel disc brakes, and a 360-degree camera system for comprehensive situational awareness. Intriguingly, the Escudo could also become only the second Maruti model to incorporate ADAS, following in the footsteps of the upcoming Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara.
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Powertrain: Shared Powerplant
The upcoming Maruti Suzuki Escudo is slated to draw its power from the brand's proven 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine, a unit already familiar from the Brezza and Grand Vitara. This dependable powerplant will offer transmission choices of a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Intriguingly, in a strategic move to sharpen its competitive edge and secure an accessible price point within the Arena lineup, the Escudo is expected to bypass the strong hybrid powertrain found in its Grand Vitara sibling. However, aligning with Maruti Suzuki's strong push for alternative fuels, a CNG variant is firmly anticipated to be part of the range.
The launch of this SUV is expected around this festive season, most likely around September 2025 where it will rival the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, and even the Grand Vitara/ Toyota Hyryder twins as well. As for the pricing, it could start somewhere around Rs. 10 lakhs ex-showroom.
Verdict
This latest SUV fromt he brand is something that not only rivals the other compact SUVs, but will also cannibalise some sales from its own premium stablemate. It is more likely to swing on the space and comfort side and is most likely going to be the most brimmed up offering in terms of tech from the Arena outlets. As for the differnetiating factors from the Grand Vitara, it will be the strong hybrid set-up and potentially some features that will remain exclusive in both the SUVs.
