Maruti Suzuki is planning to launch a new mid-size SUV this year for the Diwali festival season. It is said that this new vehicle may be named “Escudo“. Currently codenamed “Y17”, this SUV will fill the gap between Maruti’s sub-4 meter Brezza and the larger Grand Vitara.
The vehicle has been designed to directly compete with popular vehicles like Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment in the Indian market. It is expected to occupy an important place in Maruti’s SUV lineup.
New Escudo with long wheelbase and more boot space
Maruti’s new Escudo SUV is said to be built on its Global-C platform. It will have a slightly longer wheelbase and more boot space than the Maruti Grand Vitara. This means that there will be more space for passengers and luggage. The overall length of the vehicle is expected to be more than 4,345 millimeters.
The Escudo is being developed as a 5-seater SUV, so there is more space in the interior for passengers to sit comfortably. The design of the vehicle may include some of the beautiful features used in the Grand Vitara, but the vehicle will also continue to have Maruti’s traditional style. Although it has a modern look, it will also retain the unique identity of Maruti.
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In 2024, Maruti officially trademarked the name “Escudo” in India. This indicates that the company plans to use the name for a new vehicle in the future. Also, currently, Suzuki sells its Grand Vitara model under the name “Escudo” in Japan and some other international markets. With this, it can be said that the Escudo name has gained a global legacy and introduction.
More Boot Space for Family Trips
The new Maruti Escudo model has been designed with an enlarged boot space to provide additional comfort and efficiency while traveling. The current Grand Vitara offers 373 litres of boot space, but the Hyundai Creta has a larger 433 litres. The Escudo is expected to offer more boot space than this. This will be very useful and convenient for trips with a large family.
Powerful and capable engine options
- The new Escudo will continue to offer the same engine options as the Grand Vitara. The first is a 1.5-litre petrol engine (Naturally Aspirated) with 104bhp. This will provide more power and a better driving experience.
CNG option focusing on cycle cost
- Meanwhile, a CNG model with 88bhp will also be available. This will be a great option for customers who want a relaxed driving experience with extra mileage. This is a key part of Maruti’s cost-cutting drive.
Advanced Hybrid System
- A 116bhp petrol-hybrid variant is also planned. This will help in increasing fuel efficiency, and will also be more environmentally friendly. With a wide range of engine options, the Escudo offers a wide range of choices to suit the needs of the customers.
New SUV to enter Arena dealership
Maruti Suzuki currently sells its Grand Vitara SUV through Nexa dealerships. Nexa dealerships carry high-end models like Baleno, Ignis, Fronx, Jimny, XL6 and Invicto. However, none of the SUVs other than the Brezza are currently available through Maruti’s other major sales channel, Arena dealerships.
In this context, Maruti plans to sell the Escudo SUV through Arena dealerships. This will add a new, advanced SUV model to the Arena dealerships. This is expected to help Maruti gain more customers and increase sales. Bringing the Escudo through Arena will be a major step towards further strengthening this market channel.
Escudo to be a 5 seater
Earlier, there were widespread speculations that the Escudo would be a 7-seater version of the Maruti Grand Vitara. But now it has been confirmed that Maruti Suzuki plans to launch the Escudo only as a 5-seater SUV. It will be a family-friendly vehicle, but without a lot of seating capacity, making better use of the vehicle’s space. The Escudo will be a well-balanced mid-size vehicle, focusing on ride comfort, boot space and modern features.
Maruti to integrate ICE and EV markets
The launch of the Escudo comes at a crucial juncture for Maruti Suzuki. It comes as Maruti is set to launch its first electric SUV, the e-Vitara, in September 2025. With this, Maruti plans to increase its sales by targeting both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles and Electric Vehicle (EV) vehicles. Both the Escudo and the e-Vitara mark important milestones in Maruti’s next-generation vehicle manufacturing plan.
