The wait is almost over. Maruti Suzuki is rolling out a brand-new SUV in September 2025, and car buyers have plenty of reasons to be curious. For now, it’s being called the Maruti Escudo SUV, though the final name might change at launch. Either way, this SUV will be Maruti’s second shot in the midsize SUV segment, and it’s aimed right at the biggest names in the game — Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, and Toyota Hyryder.
Thanks to spy shots and leaks, we already know quite a lot about it. So, if you’re wondering what makes this SUV special, here are 15 insider facts about the Maruti Escudo SUV that’ll get you interested.
1. It’s Coming This September
Maruti has locked in September 2025 for the launch. That puts it right in the middle of the festive season — the best time for families to bring home a new car.
2. Maruti’s Second Bet in Midsize SUVs
The Grand Vitara was Maruti’s first step into this space. Now, with the Escudo, the company is doubling down. Clearly, Maruti doesn’t want to leave this growing SUV segment to rivals.
3. Packed With Level-2 ADAS
This will be the first Maruti SUV in India to offer Level-2 ADAS. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and emergency braking will finally make their way to a Maruti, giving it a serious safety upgrade.
4. Dolby Atmos for Music Lovers
Music buffs, take note: the Maruti Escudo SUV will also be the first Maruti to get Dolby Atmos audio. That means better clarity, richer bass, and a genuinely premium in-car listening experience.
5. Convenience of a Powered Tailgate
Loading luggage will be less of a hassle. The Maruti Escudo SUV is expected to get a powered tailgate, something you won’t find on a Hyundai Creta.
6. Real 4WD Capability
Maruti will set the Escudo apart from many of its rivals with an optional 4WD system. So, whether it’s a slippery monsoon road or a weekend trail, this SUV won’t shy away.
7. Strong Hybrid Tech
Fuel economy is where Maruti plays strong. The Maruti Escudo SUV will likely share the 1.5L petrol engine and also come with a Toyota-sourced strong hybrid setup. Expect punchy performance with wallet-friendly fuel efficiency.
8. First SUV With Underbody CNG Kit
Here’s a clever trick — the Escudo could be Maruti’s first SUV with an underbody CNG kit. Unlike other CNG cars where the boot is sacrificed, this one will still give you decent storage space.
9. Slightly Bigger Than Grand Vitara
Reports suggest the Escudo will be a bit longer than the Grand Vitara. Translation? More cabin room and a larger boot, two things Indian buyers always want.
10. Arena’s New Flagship SUV
This SUV won’t be sold through Nexa. Instead, it will be the new flagship model for Arena showrooms. That means Arena customers finally get a taste of a premium Maruti SUV.
11. Positioned Between Brezza and Grand Vitara
Maruti is slotting the Escudo smartly. It’ll sit above the Brezza but below the Grand Vitara, bridging the gap for buyers who want something bigger than a compact SUV but less expensive than a Vitara.
12. Prices Will Be Competitive
The Maruti Escudo SUV price is expected to start at ₹9–10 lakh and go up to ₹16 lakh for the top variant. That’s right in the heart of the midsize SUV market and could put serious pressure on rivals.
13. Fresh, Bold Design
Spy shots hint at a bolder, sportier design than the Brezza — with sharp lines, a strong stance, and stylish alloys. Maruti seems ready to make the Escudo stand out in traffic.
14. Feature-Loaded Cabin
Inside, you can expect everything modern buyers ask for: a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and maybe even a full digital driver display.
15. The Name Might Change
Don’t get too attached to “Maruti Escudo SUV” While that’s what it’s being called now, Maruti may reveal it under a new name for India. Whatever the badge, the features are what really matter.
Final Take
The Maruti Escudo SUV looks ready to shake up the midsize SUV space. With ADAS, 4WD, Dolby Atmos, a strong hybrid, and even a CNG option, it covers everything from tech to practicality. Add a competitive price tag, and Maruti might just have another blockbuster on its hands.
If you’re planning to buy an SUV this year, the Escudo deserves to be on your shortlist.