Maruti Suzuki Escudo SUV Set for Festive Launch, Poised to Rival Hyundai Creta
Maruti Suzuki Escudo SUV Set for Festive Launch, Poised to Rival Hyundai Creta
Expected to be launched on September 3, the Escudo will fill the gap between Brezza and Grand Vitara with premium features and multiple powertrain options.
Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to launch a brand-new compact SUV under the name Escudo during this year’s festive season, with September 3 being a likely launch date, as per several reports. Though the company has not officially confirmed the details, the Escudo was spotted during road tests recently, hinting at a launch sooner rather than later.
The Escudo name has already been trademarked in India and is known internationally as the nameplate for the Suzuki Vitara in Japan. In India, however, it is being developed as a mid-size SUV positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, specifically to challenge the segment leader, Hyundai Creta.
Styling cues of the Escudo are expected to resemble the Grand Vitara, especially in the headlamp and tail-light design. The SUV will likely be over 4 metres long, with a wheelbase ranging between 2600mm and 2700mm, and ground clearance around 200mm to 210mm. It may feature 17-inch wheels, and a fuel tank capacity of 40 to 45 litres.
Built on Suzuki’s Global C platform (shared with the Grand Vitara), the Escudo may have slight modifications like a longer wheelbase for improved interior space. Cabin features are expected to include:
- A large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A fully digital instrument cluster
- Sunroof and ventilated front seats in top trims
Engine Options and Performance
The Escudo is likely to offer multiple powertrain choices:
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with mild-hybrid and possibly strong-hybrid options
- A CNG variant is also expected, catering to eco-conscious buyers
Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
Safety Features
The upcoming SUV is expected to come with six airbags, ABS, ESC, and other safety features as standard. Higher variants may also get a 360-degree camera.
Pricing and Competition
The Maruti Suzuki Escudo is likely to be priced between ₹10 lakh and ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will compete directly with popular mid-size SUVs like:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Skoda Kushaq
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Honda Elevate
- MG Astor
The Escudo will be retailed through Maruti Suzuki’s Arena dealerships, unlike the Grand Vitara, which is sold through the Nexa network.
With the growing demand in the mid-size SUV segment, the Escudo is expected to be a major step in Maruti’s strategy to capture a bigger slice of the premium SUV market.
