Maruti Suzuki is all set to bring in a brand-new midsize SUV on September 3, 2025. Internally called the Y17, the SUV is expected to be named the Maruti Escudo, though the final name may change at launch. The Escudo will sit between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara, making it the flagship model in Maruti’s Arena range. This move puts Maruti right in the middle of the toughest SUV battle in India, where the Hyundai Creta and the Tata Nexon have long been favorites. With the Escudo, Maruti is aiming to grab a bigger slice of this growing segment.
Modern Features That Stand Out
Maruti knows today’s SUV buyers expect premium features, and the Escudo is being built to deliver exactly that. Reports suggest it could come with Level-2 ADAS, a powered tailgate, and even Dolby Atmos sound, which would put it on par with some premium rivals. Inside the cabin, buyers may get a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. If all these features make it to the production version, the Escudo would be one of Maruti’s most feature-packed SUVs ever, giving the Hyundai Creta a run for its money.
Engine and Hybrid Power Options
When it comes to engines, the Escudo is likely to share options with the Maruti Grand Vitara. That means it could get the familiar 1.5-litre petrol engine, along with a CNG version for those who want lower running costs. Interestingly, the SUV may also become the first Maruti to offer an underbody CNG kit, freeing up extra boot space. The highlight, however, could be the 1.5-litre strong hybrid engine sourced from Toyota, which delivers about 150 bhp and 263 Nm of torque. Paired with an e-CVT gearbox, this setup promises excellent mileage something Maruti has always been known for.
Expected Price and Variants
Pricing is where Maruti usually plays smart, and the Escudo is expected to follow that path. Market talk suggests the SUV could be priced from around ₹9-10 lakh for the base models to ₹18–19 lakh for the top-end variants (ex-showroom). This means the Escudo could undercut the Hyundai Creta’s starting price, making it more attractive to budget-conscious buyers. If Maruti manages to offer strong features even in lower trims, it might also pull customers who are considering compact SUVs like the Brezza, Venue, or Sonet.
Can It Really Take on Creta and Nexon?
The big question is simple, will the Escudo be strong enough to challenge the Hyundai Creta and the Tata Nexon? The Creta has built a reputation for its premium design and features, while the Nexon is praised for safety, affordability, and wide options. For Maruti, the key will be to combine value for money with modern tech and fuel efficiency. If the Escudo delivers on its promise of hybrid power, advanced features, and sharp pricing, it could shake up the segment in a big way.