Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch its all-new mid-size SUV on September 3, 2025. While the name is not officially confirmed, reports suggest it could be called Escudo or possibly Victoris. The company has released the first teaser, highlighting the SUV’s LED tail lamp design with a sharp, three-dimensional lighting effect.
Bold Styling and Aerodynamic Design
The teaser shows a modern tail lamp cluster with unique indicators. Unlike the eVitara, this SUV gets a fresh design language. The Escudo will feature a stylish front fascia, bold surfaces, and clean lines. Maruti has focused heavily on aerodynamics, ensuring the SUV looks sporty and premium.
Positioning in Maruti’s Line-up
The Escudo will sit above the Maruti Brezza and below the Grand Vitara, becoming the flagship SUV for Arena showrooms. This places it directly in competition with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Toyota Hyryder, Tata Curvv, and MG Astor.
Expected Features
While the interiors are not yet revealed, reports suggest the SUV will be loaded with modern features:
- Powered tailgate
- Level 2 ADAS suite
- Dolby Atmos premium audio system
- Panoramic sunroof
- 360-degree camera
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless charging
- Ventilated seats
- Head-Up Display (HUD)
- Digital instrument cluster
- Connected car tech
On the safety front, the SUV will likely include:
- Multiple airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Hill descent control
- ESP with hill hold
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Rear parking sensors
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
Powertrain Options
The Escudo is expected to borrow engines from the Grand Vitara. Likely options include:
- 1.5L K15C petrol mild hybrid (103 bhp)
- 1.5L Atkinson cycle strong hybrid (115 bhp)
- CNG variant
Transmission options may include:
- 5-speed manual
- 6-speed torque converter automatic
- e-CVT (for strong hybrid)
Some reports also suggest a 4WD option, which could give the SUV an edge over competitors.
Price and Market Strategy
According to early reports, the Maruti Escudo price in India could fall in the range of ₹9–18 lakh (ex-showroom). This would make it the most expensive SUV in Maruti’s Arena line-up. With this launch, Maruti Suzuki aims to strengthen its mid-size SUV presence with a two-product strategy – Grand Vitara via Nexa and Escudo via Arena.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Maruti Suzuki Escudo is shaping up to be a feature-rich SUV with stylish looks, modern tech, and competitive pricing. If Maruti manages to balance features and affordability, the Escudo could pose a serious challenge to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, the segment leaders.
