The Maruti Escudo 2025 Launch is one of the most anticipated car events of the year. Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to introduce its brand-new mid-size SUV, codenamed Y17, which will likely carry the name Maruti Escudo. Scheduled for September 3, 2025, this SUV is expected to strengthen Maruti’s presence in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, directly challenging popular rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and Toyota Hyryder.
Launch Date & Positioning
- Launch Date: September 3, 2025
- Showroom Network: Unlike the Grand Vitara (sold via Nexa), the Escudo/Y17 will be retailed through Maruti Arena dealerships, giving it a wider market reach.
- Market Positioning: Strategically slotted above the Brezza but below the Grand Vitara, making it a more affordable mid-size SUV option.
Name & Market Context
- Likely Name: Maruti Escudo (official confirmation pending, internally known as Y17).
- Target Rivals: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Toyota Hyryder.
- Why It Matters: With compact SUVs booming and small hatchback sales slowing, Maruti aims to capture more share of India’s fastest-growing segment.
Production & Strategy
- Manufacturing Location: Kharkhoda plant, Haryana.
- Production Target: ~10,000 units/month at full scale.
- Business Goal: Push Maruti’s market share closer to 50% (currently ~40%) by expanding its SUV lineup.
Engines & Powertrain Options
Maruti is expected to offer multiple fuel options, making the Escudo more versatile than some rivals:
- 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (100–103 hp) – 5-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
- 1.5L Petrol-CNG Variant (88 hp) – factory-fitted CNG with improved boot space via underbody tank
- 1.5L Strong Hybrid Petrol (116 hp) – better mileage, lower emissions
- AWD (All-Wheel Drive) – Expected on select trims, making it one of the few SUVs in this class with AWD
Features & Design
Exterior Highlights
- e-Vitara inspired LED headlights & tail lamps
- New exclusive alloy wheel design
- Muscular stance with fresh bumper and grille styling
Interior & Tech Features
- 9-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Ventilated front seats & wireless charging
- Panoramic sunroof
- 360-degree camera & digital instrument cluster
- Level-2 ADAS features (advanced driver assistance)
- Powered tailgate
Expected Price in India
- Base Variants: ₹9–10 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Top Variants: ₹18–20 lakh (ex-showroom)
This pricing strategy makes it more accessible than the Grand Vitara while still competing aggressively with the Hyundai Creta & Kia Seltos.
Quick Comparison Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | September 3, 2025 |
| Name / Codename | Maruti Escudo (Y17) |
| Showrooms | Arena (not Nexa) |
| Manufacturing | Kharkhoda, Haryana – 10,000 units/month target |
| Engines | Petrol, Petrol-CNG, Petrol-Hybrid, AWD option |
| Features | 9″ touchscreen, ADAS, sunroof, ventilated seats, digital cluster, etc. |
| Price | ₹9–10 lakh (base) → ₹18–20 lakh (top trims) |
| Rivals | Creta, Seltos, Elevate, Taigun, Kushaq, Hyryder |
Why This SUV Matters
The Maruti Escudo (Y17) is a crucial launch for India’s largest carmaker. By blending multiple engine choices, premium tech features, and Arena dealership reach, Maruti hopes to dominate the mid-size SUV space just as it has with hatchbacks in the past.
If priced right, the Escudo could emerge as a value-packed alternative to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, while also giving Grand Vitara buyers a slightly more affordable option.