Maruti Suzuki will launch its new mid-size SUV, the Escudo, before Diwali festivities. It will compete with the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. Positioned between Maruti’s best-sellers, Brezza and Grand Vitara, the Escudo aims to be a game changer in the market.
Initially designed as a three-row SUV, the Escudo—codenamed Y17—will now be a five-seater to better suit demand. Featuring Maruti Suzuki’s Global-C platform, the vehicle will boast a longer wheelbase, greater boot space than the Grand Vitara, and a family-centred build. The Escudo will exceed 4,345 mm in length, providing ample cabin space and practicality while maintaining its focus on comfort.
On its part, the Escudo will have to offer several powertrain options. These contain a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, a strong hybrid variant with Toyota’s 1.5-litre TNGA petrol engine, and even a CNG trim. Fueling the naturally aspirated petrol unit, there is an expected delivery of 102 bhp and 139 Nm of torque to be received with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The strong hybrid version will feature an e-CVT gearbox, and there is also the possibility of offering an all-wheel drive (AWD) add-on aimed at buyers looking for added flexibility. Adding a CNG variant also increases the appeal of the Escudo in India.
Dominating the Arena network makes the Escudo the new flagship model, which means it could be cheaper and more accessible than the Grand Vitara served through the premium Nexa channel. Such moves widen the market for the model, expand the lineup, and attract more users who seek purchase-rich SUVs that take value into account.
While focusing on its bold exterior, the brand’s trademark will ensure a good amount of space and advanced infotainment, comfort features, and other tech to fulfil contemporary demands. As for the Grand Vitara, the Escudo is expected to draw design parallels from it.
Although Maruti Suzuki registered the name “Escudo” only last year, it has been used for the Grand Vitara in countries like Japan for quite some time. Maruti’s forte lies in aggressively penetrating the market, and issuing the e-Vitara MLX, which is set to be launched in tandem with the Escudo, is expected to do just that. The company is further consolidating its position in the highly profitable SUV segment.
The Maruti Suzuki Escudo will be launched during the festive season, marking it as one of the most sought-after products in the mid-sized SUV segment. Comprehensive information, along with a detailed features list, will likely be issued closer to the launch date. Many analysts know that the Escudo will do wonders for Maruti Suzuki, likely increasing its share in India’s rapidly expanding SUV market.
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