Summary:
India’s leading car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, is gearing up to launch two exciting SUVs in the coming months — a hybrid SUV possibly named Escudo, and the highly anticipated electric e-Vitara. These models are expected to further strengthen Maruti’s presence in both the hybrid and EV segments, offering cutting-edge features, attractive pricing, and wide accessibility.
🔋 1. Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara: The Brand’s First EV SUV
Maruti Suzuki’s first electric SUV, e-Vitara, will mark a major milestone in the company’s transition towards sustainable mobility. Developed with Suzuki’s global EV strategy in mind, the e-Vitara is designed to compete with other electric midsize SUVs like the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400.
Key Highlights:
Based on the Grand Vitara’s design language, featuring a bold front fascia and futuristic LED elements.
Likely to feature advanced EV tech, such as fast-charging capabilities, a range of around 350–400 km, and regenerative braking.
Could include modern cabin features like a 9-inch infotainment screen, connected car tech, and multiple airbags for safety.
Retail through the Nexa dealerships, targeting urban EV buyers.
Expected price: Rs. 15–20 lakh (ex-showroom).
♻️ 2. New Hybrid SUV: Likely Named Escudo
The second launch is a new five-seater hybrid SUV, expected to be called Escudo — a name previously used by Suzuki in global markets. Unlike the e-Vitara, this model will be sold through Maruti’s Arena dealerships, signaling a more mass-market approach.
What We Know:
It will sit just below the Grand Vitara in the lineup but might be slightly longer in size.
Offers a choice between 1.5-litre mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid petrol engines, both carried over from the Grand Vitara.
Focus on affordable pricing, likely between Rs. 10–15 lakh (ex-showroom), to attract budget-conscious SUV buyers.
Design cues borrowed from both the Grand Vitara and e-Vitara based on spy shots.
Interior likely to be shared with the Brezza and Grand Vitara, featuring:
9-inch touchscreen
Semi-digital instrument cluster
Automatic climate control
Multi-airbag setup
A CNG variant may also be introduced, expanding the powertrain lineup further.
🔧 Why These SUVs Matter for Maruti Suzuki
Maruti Suzuki is India’s top-selling car brand, but it has faced growing competition in the SUV and EV segments from brands like Tata Motors, Hyundai, and Mahindra. These two upcoming launches are part of a strategic move to fill portfolio gaps and stay competitive:
e-Vitara will help Maruti enter the mainstream EV market and gain ground with tech-savvy, eco-conscious buyers.
Escudo will strengthen Maruti’s offerings in the affordable SUV category, especially for buyers wanting hybrid efficiency without the Nexa price tag.
📈 Market Impact: Maruti’s CNG & Hybrid Push
Maruti’s focus on alternative fuel vehicles is no longer limited to CNG. In FY25, over 33% of its car sales came from CNG models, showing a strong consumer shift. With these new hybrid and electric SUVs, Maruti aims to:
Tap into rising demand for low-emission vehicles.
Provide diverse powertrain options (petrol, hybrid, electric, and possibly CNG).
Offer value-packed SUVs that cater to both urban and semi-urban markets.
🗓️ Launch Timeline
Though the company hasn’t officially revealed launch dates, both models are expected to debut in India by late 2025 or early 2026. Test mules have already been spotted, indicating advanced development stages.
🚘 Final Thoughts
With the e-Vitara, Maruti Suzuki enters a new era of electric mobility, while the Escudo hybrid SUV will serve as an accessible and fuel-efficient option for the average Indian family. Both vehicles reflect the company’s dual commitment to innovation and affordability.
As India transitions toward greener mobility, these new SUVs could be game-changers in the compact and midsize segments — especially if priced aggressively and backed by Maruti’s trusted service network.