Maruti Suzuki, India's top automaker, will launch its future mid-size SUV – called the Escudo – during the Diwali festivities of 2025. The Escudo, codenamed Y17, will be a five-seat SUV placed between the Maruti Brezza and the Grand Vitara, and will compete in the crowded and competitive mid-size SUV segment, currently dominated by competitors such as the Creta and Kia Seltos. The Escudo will have a promise of performance, practicality and upscale feel.

Design and Platform Highlights

• Based on the Global-C platform, offering more space and better stability
  
  
• Will feature a longer wheelbase and enhanced boot space compared to the Grand Vitara
  
  
• Overall length likely to exceed 4,345 mm, keeping it in the mid-size SUV territory
  
  
• Exterior styling expected to be inspired by the Grand Vitara, with distinctive Maruti Suzuki design language
  
  
• Expected to include modern LED headlamps, bold grille, and sporty alloy wheels
  
  

Interior and Practicality

• Five-seater configuration focused on maximizing cabin comfort
  
  
• Likely to offer premium upholstery, updated infotainment system, and redesigned dashboard
  
  
• Increased boot space for better family utility – aiming to outperform Grand Vitara’s 373L and Creta’s 433L
  
  

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Engine and Powertrain Options

• Will carry forward existing Grand Vitara engine lineup:
  
  
• 1.5L NA petrol engine with 104 bhp
  
  
• 1.5L CNG variant with 88 bhp
  
  
• 1.5L petrol-hybrid variant delivering around 116 bhp (expected)
  
  
• Focus on fuel efficiency and affordability, core strengths of Maruti vehicles
  
  

Dealership Strategy and Market Positioning

• Unlike the Grand Vitara (sold via Nexa), Escudo will be available through Arena dealerships
  
  
• Aimed at increasing Maruti’s SUV footprint across both dealership networks
  
  
• Targets buyers looking for a premium mid-size SUV under the trusted Arena banner
  
  

Conclusion

Maruti Suzuki is gearing up for the Diwali Season with a contender in the mid-size SUV market. With the arrival of the Escudo, Maruti aims to strike a balance between value and premium utility. Competition is heating up in the SUV space. In combination with the upcoming e-Vitara EV being brought to market in 2025, the Escudo tells us Maruti is doubling down on ICE and EV mobility. If buyers are searching for a spacious, stylish, efficient SUV, there is now a new contender on their list.

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