Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to shake up the mid-size SUV market with its upcoming Escudo, codenamed Y17, set to launch around Diwali 2025. Positioned between the compact Brezza and the premium Grand Vitara, the Escudo is designed to compete head-on with popular rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. Built on Suzuki’s Global-C platform, this 5-seater SUV promises a blend of spacious interiors, versatile powertrains, and competitive pricing. Aimed at families and urban buyers, the Escudo will be sold through Maruti’s widespread Arena dealerships, ensuring accessibility across India. Let’s dive into what makes the Escudo a contender to watch in 2025.
Main Highlights
The Escudo is crafted to stand out in the crowded mid-size SUV segment. Unlike earlier rumors of a 7-seater, Maruti has shifted focus to a 5-seater configuration to target high-demand models like the Creta and Seltos. This strategic move aligns with market trends favoring spacious yet compact SUVs for urban families. The Escudo is expected to be longer than the Grand Vitara’s 4,345 mm, offering enhanced cabin space and a larger boot, potentially surpassing the Grand Vitara’s 373 liters and even the Creta’s 433 liters. This makes it a practical choice for those needing extra room for luggage or family trips.
Maruti’s Arena dealership network, known for its reach in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, will distribute the Escudo, giving it an edge in accessibility over rivals sold through premium outlets. Additionally, Toyota is likely to launch a rebadged version, expanding the Escudo’s footprint through a shared platform strategy. This collaboration could bring economies of scale, potentially keeping prices competitive. While exact pricing remains unconfirmed, estimates suggest a range of Rs. 10–20 lakh, positioning the Escudo as a value-driven alternative to its rivals.
Specifications and Features
The Escudo will share its powertrain lineup with the Grand Vitara, offering multiple options to suit different buyers. The base model features a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 101.65–104 bhp and 139 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. For eco-conscious buyers, a CNG variant will produce 86.79–88 bhp, ideal for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. The top-tier strong hybrid variant, sourced from Toyota, combines a 1.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 113.97–116 bhp, paired with an e-CVT transmission for smooth performance and better mileage.
The Escudo may also offer Suzuki’s AllGrip all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in select variants, enhancing its appeal for buyers seeking better traction on diverse terrains. Built on the Global-C platform, the SUV promises a longer wheelbase than the Grand Vitara, translating to more legroom and comfort. Its design is expected to borrow cues from the Grand Vitara, featuring modern LED headlamps, a bold grille, and sporty alloy wheels, maintaining Maruti’s signature aesthetic while adding a fresh look.
The Escudo’s interior is likely to prioritize practicality, with increased boot space and family-friendly features. While specific tech details are yet to be revealed, expect a touchscreen infotainment system, possibly larger than the Grand Vitara’s, along with modern safety features like multiple airbags and stability control. Maruti’s focus on affordability and reliability, combined with these upgrades, positions the Escudo as a strong contender in its class.
Comparison with Rivals
The Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos dominate the mid-size SUV segment with their sleek designs, feature-rich cabins, and versatile engines. The Creta starts at Rs. 11.10 lakh (ex-showroom), offering a 1.5-liter petrol engine (115 bhp) and a diesel option, while the Seltos, priced from Rs. 11.19 lakh, includes similar engines with a new 1.6-liter hybrid planned for 2026. Both rivals boast premium interiors and advanced features like Level 2 ADAS in higher trims, setting a high bar.
The Escudo counters with its competitive pricing, Maruti’s trusted service network, and fuel-efficient powertrains, including CNG and strong hybrid options. Its larger dimensions and boot space could give it an edge for families, while the potential AWD option adds versatility absent in most Creta and Seltos variants. However, the Escudo may face challenges matching the premium appeal and tech-heavy features of its rivals, especially if it leans heavily on affordability over luxury.
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki Escudo is shaping up to be a game-changer in the mid-size SUV market, blending practicality, efficiency, and Maruti’s hallmark value proposition. With its Diwali 2025 launch, it aims to challenge the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos by offering more space, versatile powertrains, and wider accessibility through Arena dealerships. While it may not outshine its rivals in premium features, its competitive pricing and family-friendly design make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. As Maruti expands its SUV lineup alongside the upcoming e Vitara EV, the Escudo could solidify its position as a top pick for Indian families in 2025.
