Maruti Suzuki will lead the festive season with a grand launch — the all-new Escudo, a 5-seater premium mid-size SUV that will shake up one of India’s most aggressively contested categories. Launching in Diwali 2025, the Escudo will slot between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, and in the process, take a direct stab at behemoths like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate. Codename Y17, the new SUV is more than a simple addition to the already huge Maruti range — it’s a tactical thrust to claim the mid-size SUV segment and expand the company’s footprint through its Arena dealership network.
Where Does the Escudo Fit In?
The Escudo is nestled between the sub-compact Brezza and premium Grand Vitara. While Maruti sells the Grand Vitara via its Nexa outlets, the Escudo will be available at exclusive Arena outlets, offering Maruti better penetration in India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This is a significant step for Arena, which currently has a single SUV model, the Brezza. With the launch of the Escudo here, Maruti is offering premium options to those who want the comfort and convenience of Arena outlets.
Size, Platform & Design
Built on Suzuki’s proven Global-C platform, the Escudo will likely measure around 4,345 mm in length, offering more interior space and boot capacity than even the Grand Vitara. Expect a more roomy rear seat, larger cargo space, and a strong focus on family-friendly practicality.
While design details are still under wraps, the Escudo is expected to borrow styling cues from the Grand Vitara — think bold LED lighting, a strong shoulder line, and signature Maruti design language. Expect a refined yet muscular stance that blends urban elegance with SUV toughness.
Engine & Powertrain Options
Under the hood, the Escudo will likely carry forward Maruti’s reliable set of powertrains:
- 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol – 104 bhp
- 1.5L CNG Variant – 88 bhp (for cost-conscious buyers)
- 1.5L Petrol-Hybrid (116 bhp) – under consideration for higher fuel efficiency
Transmission options are expected to include both manual and automatic gearboxes, possibly even a 6-speed torque converter for better performance and convenience.
These options show Maruti’s strategy of offering maximum flexibility to buyers, whether they want fuel efficiency, performance, or lower running costs.
Practicality That Works for Indian Families
One of the biggest plusses of the Escudo is going to be its boot space. Although the Creta offers roughly 433 litres and the Grand Vitara 373 litres, the Escudo is going to eclipse both of them — a blessing for long highway drives and daily family chores.
The SUV will also have luxurious comforts like large infotainment screen, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and premium safety features like 6 airbags, ESP, and others — especially on higher trims.
Why This Launch Matters
Escudo is entering a market in which demand is climbing, but choices are many. Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Toyota, and even Tata and Mahindra are crowding the mid-size SUV space. But Maruti Suzuki enjoys two one-way strengths:
- Brand trust + industry-leading service network
- Low-maintenance, efficient engines that customers love
Also, by launching the Escudo through Arena (and not Nexa), Maruti creates wider accessibility and reach, especially in rural and semi-urban markets where Arena has a stronger presence.
What’s Next?
Escudo is not the only new car that Maruti is working on. The automaker will also launch its first electric SUV — the e-Vitara — by September 2025, an aggressive two-pronged move to monopolize both the ICE and EV space.
Last Take: A Diwali Blockbuster in the Pipeline?
With its savvy positioning, spaciousness, frugal powertrains, and high dealership penetration, the Maruti Suzuki Escudo can easily be one of the biggest launches of 2025.
If you’re looking for a feature-packed, family SUV with Maruti’s tried-and-tested dependability, the Escudo can be your go-to festive upgrade. Place your bets — this Diwali, the highways are going to be lit by Maruti!