What’s New with the Maruti Escudo SUV?

Maruti is reportedly developing a fresh contender in the mid-size SUV space, known internally as the Y17, and it’s likely to debut under the name Escudo. Launch is expected in Diwali 2025 and this new SUV is making headlines not just because of a new name – but because it will have more space than Grand Vitara at a lower starting price.

Sounds bold, right? Let’s break it down.

A Bigger Body for a Roomier Ride

Grand Vitara is 4,345 mm long, Escudo will be slightly longer – around 4,365 mm, same as Kia Seltos.

Here’s what that means for you:

• Extra stretch inside means both front and back seats feel noticeably roomier
• Better rear seat comfort, especially for family buyers
• Expect the Escudo to pack in extra luggage capacity compared to the Grand Vitara’s 373 litres, making it a more travel-friendly option for families.

Aggressive Pricing

Now comes the punchline: price. Escudo will start at ₹9.75 lakh (ex-showroom) – lower than Grand Vitara’s ₹11.42 lakh.

Won’t this cannibalize Grand Vitara?

Not exactly. Maruti is planning to segment:

• Arena Dealerships will sell Escudo (mass-market)
• Nexa Showrooms will continue with Grand Vitara (premium)

To keep it distinct, Escudo will skip premium features like panoramic sunroof and full digital cluster on lower variants.

Powertrain and Key Features

Escudo will use the familiar 1.5L petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech, 103 bhp and 138 Nm. Transmission will be 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic.

A CNG option is also expected, staying true to Maruti’s focus on practical, fuel-efficient alternatives.

Expected features:

• A large touchscreen system is expected, offering seamless wireless smartphone connectivity for both Android and iPhone users.
• Wireless charging and auto climate control
• Safety features : six airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, 360-degree camera

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ALSO READ: Affordable CNG Face-Off – Wagon R vs Magnite Under ₹8 Lakh

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Frequently Asked Questions About Maruti Escudo

Will Escudo be bigger than Grand Vitara?

Yes, it will be slightly longer than Grand Vitara.

Is Maruti planning to offer the same hybrid tech from the Grand Vitara in the Escudo?
At this stage, a strong-hybrid setup seems unlikely. Instead, Maruti is expected to stick with the mild-hybrid petrol engine and possibly introduce a CNG version to keep the pricing competitive.

Verdict

Maruti Escudo is going to shake up the SUV segment with a wider, more space and cheaper approach. It may not have all the features of Grand Vitara but for family buyers looking for a practical and affordable SUV, it’s a winner.

If you were waiting for a compact SUV that offers more for less, wait no more.