Upcoming Competition in the SUV Market: Maruti to Unveil New, Economical, and Feature-Rich Rival to the Creta!
Maruti's New Midsize SUV, the Escudo, Set to Launch on September 3
Maruti Suzuki is gearing up for the launch of its latest offering, the much-anticipated midsize SUV, internally known as the Y17 and popularly referred to as the Escudo. The vehicle is scheduled to hit the market on September 3, 2025.
Positioned below the Grand Vitara, the Escudo is designed to compete with popular models like the Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, and Kia Seltos. This new SUV will be sold exclusively through Maruti’s Arena dealership network, which includes over 3,000 showrooms across India, targeting a broader and value-conscious customer base compared to the premium Nexa channel.
The Escudo will offer three powertrain options: a 103hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, available with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission; an 88hp factory-fitted CNG variant with an innovative underbody CNG tank, a first for Maruti's passenger cars; and a 116hp petrol-electric hybrid variant, which is likely the most fuel-efficient option. While a front-wheel drive will be standard, the SUV will also have an optional all-wheel drive setup, available exclusively with the petrol automatic variant.
The Escudo will exceed 4,345 mm in length, providing potentially more cabin and boot space compared to its platform cousins. It will share its powertrains with the Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder. The SUV will also likely be badge-engineered and sold by Toyota Kirloskar Motor, expanding market reach under Toyota’s brand.
In terms of features, the Escudo is packed with modern safety, convenience, and comfort amenities. These include Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for enhanced safety and convenience, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera system, ventilated front seats, a digital instrument cluster, connected car features, Dolby Atmos audio system, and a powered tailgate.
The Escudo is expected to be almost as big as the Grand Vitara, but it will be smaller in terms of exclusivity. With its competitive pricing and extensive feature list, the Escudo is likely to offer a better value-for-money proposition than its rivals. As the most premium model in the Arena range, the Escudo could be the first Maruti model in India to feature a Level-2 ADAS suite, setting a new benchmark for safety and technology in its segment.
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[2] Autocar India. (2023). Maruti Suzuki Y17 (Escudo) SUV: Specifications, features, price & more. Retrieved from https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/maruti-suzuki/maruti-suzuki-y17-escudo-suv-specifications-features-price-more-78530
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[4] The Economic Times. (2023). Maruti Suzuki Y17 (Escudo) to compete with Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate and Kia Seltos. Retrieved from https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/maruti-suzuki-y17-escudo-to-compete-with-hyundai-creta-honda-elevate-and-kia-seltos/90880334
[5] Business Standard. (2023). Maruti Suzuki Y17 (Escudo) to be sold through Toyota's dealerships. Retrieved from https://auto.business-standard.com/auto/news/maruti-suzuki-y17-escudo-to-be-sold-through-toyotas-dealerships-123039800462_1.html
- The new Maruti Escudo, with its competitive pricing and extensive features, such as Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and a Dolby Atmos audio system, promises to provide a superior lifestyle experience, blending it seamlessly with advanced technology.
- Beyond just cars, the Escudo's debut, with its lineup of powertrain options including a petrol-electric hybrid, showcases Maruti Suzuki's commitment to sports performance, sustainability, and technological innovation, reflecting a broader shift in the automobile industry.
