Maruti Suzuki is all set to shake up the midsize SUV segment with its upcoming Maruti Escudo, positioned to take on heavyweights like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. Touted as the flagship Arena SUV, the Escudo promises aggressive pricing, advanced features, and multiple engine options. The official launch will take place on September 3, 2025, when Maruti will finally reveal its prices, specifications, and variant lineup.
Price Expectations: Starting at ₹9 Lakh
The Maruti Escudo price is expected to start at around ₹9–10 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base variant. Meanwhile, the top-end hybrid models could be priced between ₹18–19 lakh. This makes the Escudo a strong competitor to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, while still sitting slightly below the Grand Vitara in Maruti’s SUV hierarchy.
Feature-Packed SUV With Hybrid & CNG Options
The Escudo is expected to offer petrol, hybrid, and CNG powertrains, making it one of the most versatile SUVs in its class. Higher trims may feature Level 2 ADAS, 4WD, and premium safety systems.
A big highlight is the underbody CNG kit, ensuring buyers don’t lose boot space—a common problem with factory-fitted CNG cars.
Flagship Arena SUV for the Masses
Unlike the Grand Vitara, which is sold exclusively via NEXA dealerships, the Maruti Escudo will be available through over 3,000 Arena dealerships across India. This move makes the SUV far more accessible, sitting neatly between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara in Maruti’s lineup.
The Escudo is part of Maruti’s strategy to reclaim dominance in the midsize SUV market, an arena where Creta and Seltos currently lead.
Engine Options: Borrowed From the Grand Vitara
The Escudo will share its engines with the Grand Vitara, giving buyers three choices:
- 1.5L K15C Petrol – 103 bhp
- 1.5L Hybrid Petrol – 92 bhp Atkinson cycle engine + electric motor (combined 115 bhp), paired with e-CVT
- CNG option – India’s first Maruti car with an underbody CNG kit
The hybrid variant is expected to deliver excellent mileage, close to the 27.97 kmpl claimed by the Grand Vitara.
Variants & Buyer Options
The Maruti Escudo will likely be offered in multiple trims—from an entry-level petrol to a fully-loaded hybrid/4WD model with Level 2 ADAS. Buyers will be able to pick between petrol, hybrid, and CNG depending on their budget and driving needs.
Final Take
With aggressive pricing, multiple engine choices, and wide Arena dealership availability, the Maruti Escudo SUV looks set to be a serious rival to the Creta and Seltos. If Maruti delivers on these promises, the Escudo could become one of the most talked-about midsize SUVs of 2025.
