A new 5-seater SUV from Maruti to be sold via Arena, positioned between Brezza and Grand Vitara
Maruti Suzuki is gearing up for a major launch on September 3, 2025, with the debut of its all-new Escudo SUV. Set to be positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, the Escudo will be sold through Maruti’s Arena dealerships, making it more accessible across India than its Nexa-exclusive sibling.
Expected to compete head-to-head with popular C-segment SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, the Escudo will reportedly come with both mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid petrol engine options borrowed from the Grand Vitara. The 1.5-litre mild hybrid engine is expected to deliver 103 PS, while the strong hybrid variant could offer a combined output of around 115 PS. Buyers may also have the choice of manual and automatic transmission, including the AllGrip (4WD) option on select variants.
In terms of design, spy shots suggest that the Escudo will sport a blend of rugged and refined styling. Its front fascia may carry Grand Vitara-inspired headlamps with a revised grille and bumper, possibly taking cues from the upcoming eVitara. A wider air dam and new skid plate are likely to add visual depth to the front, while the connected LED tail lamps and updated rear bumper aim to enhance its modern appeal.
While initial plans hinted at a 7-seater layout, the upcoming model is now expected to debut as a 5-seater SUV, with a possible 3-row variant under consideration for the future based on demand. Reports suggest it could be slightly longer than the Grand Vitara, potentially offering more boot space and better rear-seat comfort.
Inside, the Escudo is expected to carry forward many premium features found in the Grand Vitara, such as a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, climate control, sunroof, and 6 airbags. These features could help the SUV appeal to a broad range of urban buyers looking for value without compromise.
As for pricing, Maruti is likely to position the Escudo competitively between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 15 lakh (ex-showroom). This range could make it an attractive proposition for buyers seeking a modern, spacious SUV with hybrid tech, without crossing into the higher Nexa pricing territory.
With the Escudo, Maruti Suzuki continues its push to dominate the SUV segment, offering customers a wider portfolio across both its Nexa and Arena sales channels. As the launch date approaches, more official details are expected to follow, but all signs point to the Escudo being a strong new player in India’s competitive midsize SUV space.
Maruti Escudo: A Strong Contender in the C-Segment SUV Battle
Expected to compete head-to-head with popular C-segment SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, the Escudo will reportedly come with both mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid petrol engine options borrowed from the Grand Vitara. The 1.5-litre mild hybrid engine is expected to deliver 103 PS, while the strong hybrid variant could offer a combined output of around 115 PS. Buyers may also have the choice of manual and automatic transmission, including the AllGrip (4WD) option on select variants.
Bold and Refined Design Inspired by Grand Vitara and eVitara
In terms of design, spy shots suggest that the Escudo will sport a blend of rugged and refined styling. Its front fascia may carry Grand Vitara-inspired headlamps with a revised grille and bumper, possibly taking cues from the upcoming eVitara. A wider air dam and new skid plate are likely to add visual depth to the front, while the connected LED tail lamps and updated rear bumper aim to enhance its modern appeal.
Seating and Space: 5-Seater with Future 3-Row Possibility
While initial plans hinted at a 7-seater layout, the upcoming model is now expected to debut as a 5-seater SUV, with a possible 3-row variant under consideration for the future based on demand. Reports suggest it could be slightly longer than the Grand Vitara, potentially offering more boot space and better rear-seat comfort.
Feature-Packed Interior Loaded with Premium Tech
Inside, the Escudo is expected to carry forward many premium features found in the Grand Vitara, such as a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, climate control, sunroof, and 6 airbags. These features could help the SUV appeal to a broad range of urban buyers looking for value without compromise.
Competitive Pricing Set to Appeal to Urban Buyers
As for pricing, Maruti is likely to position the Escudo competitively between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 15 lakh (ex-showroom). This range could make it an attractive proposition for buyers seeking a modern, spacious SUV with hybrid tech, without crossing into the higher Nexa pricing territory.
Maruti’s Strategic Push in the Mid-Size SUV Segment
With the Escudo, Maruti Suzuki continues its push to dominate the SUV segment, offering customers a wider portfolio across both its Nexa and Arena sales channels. As the launch date approaches, more official details are expected to follow, but all signs point to the Escudo being a strong new player in India’s competitive midsize SUV space.
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