Maruti Suzuki Escudo: India’s Most Anticipated SUV Arrives September 3, 2025

Maruti Suzuki is set to redefine India’s compact-SUV landscape with the launch of the all-new Escudo on September 3, 2025. Built on Suzuki’s cutting-edge HEARTECT platform, the Escudo combines modern design, advanced features, and efficient powertrains to deliver a premium yet practical driving experience. Positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, it aims to bridge the gap for buyers seeking stylish urban mobility with occasional weekend-warrior capability.

Fresh, Distinctive Design

The Escudo adopts a bold silhouette highlighted by:

• A wide, chrome-trimmed grille flanked by dual-projector LED headlamps
• Sculpted bonnet lines and chunky wheel arches for a muscular stance
• Two-tone 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in MRF Wanderer multi-terrain tyres
• LED tail lamps with a linked light bar across the tailgate
• Floating roof effect achieved through gloss-black pillars

Its overall dimensions (length 4,145 mm, width 1,775 mm, height 1,625 mm, wheelbase 2,550 mm) offer a balanced cabin space without compromising city maneuverability.

Engine & Drivetrain Options

Buyers can choose between:

• A 1.5 L K15C mild-hybrid petrol engine delivering 103 PS and 137 Nm
• A new 1.5 L K15C strong-hybrid setup with a 14 PS electric motor, adding up to 117 PS combined
• Transmissions: 5-speed MT, 6-speed torque-converter AT, and a 6-speed hybrid AT

Both powertrains meet BS6-Phase 2 norms and promise fuel efficiency of up to 20 km/l for the strong-hybrid variant.

Premium Interiors & Tech

Inside, the Escudo raises the bar with:

• A 9-inch floating-tablet infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Fully digital 7-inch driver display with customizable themes
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents
• Ambient LED lighting across door trims and footwells
• Height-adjustable driver’s seat, leatherette upholstery, and a multifunction steering wheel
• 360° Around View Monitor and Head-Up Display on top-trim models

Comfort and convenience are further enhanced by keyless entry, push-button start, wireless smartphone charging, and six-speaker Arkamys-tuned audio.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Maruti Suzuki has equipped the Escudo with an extensive suite of safety features:

• Six airbags, ISOFIX child-seat anchors, and pedestrian injury mitigation bonnet
• Electronic Stability Program with Hill Hold Assist and Hill Descent Control
• Suzuki’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) offering Level-2 features:
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Lane-Keep Assist
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection

These technologies underscore Suzuki’s commitment to best-in-class active and passive safety.

Competitive Landscape

The Escudo will square off against rivals like:

Model	Price Range (₹ lakh)	Powertrain Options	Key Differentiator
Maruti Escudo	9.00 – 13.50	MT, AT, Hybrid AT	Segment’s first strong-hybrid SUV
Hyundai Creta	10.00 – 18.00	Petrol, Diesel, Turbo-Petrol, AT	Proven popularity, diesel option
Kia Seltos	10.00 – 19.00	Petrol, Turbo, CVT, DCT	Sporty design, turbo-GDi engine
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder	10.00 – 16.00	Strong-Hybrid, Petrol AT	Toyota hybrid reliability

By offering a hybrid drivetrain and a comprehensive ADAS suite at a competitive price, the Escudo targets tech-savvy and eco-conscious buyers.

Early Impressions & Expectations

Test drives have revealed a refined ride quality and responsive steering, with the hybrid variant delivering smooth, near-silent city runs. Suzuki’s expansive service network and low maintenance costs are expected to bolster ownership satisfaction. Launch offers are likely to include loyalty bonuses and exchange benefits, pushing initial bookings through the roof.

Conclusion

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo arrives as a fresh challenger in India’s booming SUV market, blending hybrid efficiency, modern design, and advanced safety under one roof. With its September 3 debut, the Escudo is poised to attract urban families and young professionals seeking a versatile, future-ready SUV. Its success will hinge on real-world fuel economy, after-sales support, and how well it differentiates itself from entrenched rivals like the Creta and Seltos.

Stay tuned to NP Auto News for an in-depth first-drive review, pricing breakdown, and booking updates.