Maruti Suzuki has officially released the first teaser of its much-awaited new midsize SUV, confirming a launch date of September 3, 2025. The teaser highlights a pair of sharply styled LED taillamps with a three-dimensional lighting effect, accompanied by a central brake lamp and turn indicators. With this upcoming SUV, Maruti aims to expand its Arena portfolio, directly targeting popular rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, and Honda Elevate.
This new SUV is being informally referred to as the Maruti Escudo, though its official name will be announced during the launch. It represents Maruti’s most significant step yet in strengthening its position in the midsize SUV segment.
Why This SUV Matters for Maruti
- Expands Maruti’s Arena lineup with a midsize SUV.
- First Maruti to feature ADAS and Dolby Atmos.
- Introduces underbody CNG tank innovation.
- Positioned perfectly to tap into India’s hottest SUV segment.
- Bridges the gap between Brezza and Grand Vitara, catering to budget-conscious yet premium-seeking buyers.
Quick Summary
Key Highlights |
Details |
|---|---|
Model |
Upcoming Maruti Arena SUV (likely Escudo) |
Launch Date |
3rd September 2025 |
Positioning |
Between Brezza and Grand Vitara |
Segment |
Midsize SUV (Creta, Seltos rival) |
Platform |
Global C platform (shared with Grand Vitara) |
Expected Engines |
1.5L Mild Hybrid, 1.5L Strong Hybrid, 1.5L CNG |
Unique Features |
Level-2 ADAS, Dolby Atmos audio, AWD, underbody CNG tank |
Expected Price Range |
Rs 10–19 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Sales Channel |
Maruti Arena dealerships |
Official Website |
Competition and Positioning
The new SUV will be sold through Maruti’s Arena dealership network, not through the premium Nexa outlets. In the lineup, it will:
- Bridge the gap between the Brezza (compact SUV) and the Grand Vitara (premium midsize SUV).
- Be larger and more feature-loaded than the Brezza, while still more affordable compared to the Grand Vitara.
This smart positioning will allow Maruti to tap into the core midsize SUV market, which continues to be one of the fastest-growing segments in India.
Exterior Design – Bold and Distinct
The teaser focuses on the rear of the SUV, confirming:
- LED taillamps with a 3D lighting effect.
- Central brake lamp positioned between the lights.
- Integrated turn indicators.
Expect more bold design cues including:
- A reworked front fascia with sharp LED DRLs.
- Muscular wheel arches with 17/18-inch alloys.
- SUV-like stance with black cladding.
- Roof rails and dual-tone paint options for a sportier appeal.
Premium Features – Level-2 ADAS and Dolby Atmos
The new Maruti SUV is expected to introduce several segment-first features:
- Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) – a first for Maruti Suzuki.
- Dolby Atmos Audio System – immersive sound technology to enhance cabin experience.
- AWD (All-Wheel Drive) – unlike the Grand Vitara, which primarily offers strong-hybrid FWD options.
- Powered Tailgate – for added convenience.
Other key expected features:
- 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Wireless phone charging pad.
- Automatic climate control.
- Ambient lighting.
- Ventilated front seats.
- Multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist, and a 360-degree camera.
Engine Options – Petrol, Hybrid, and CNG
The SUV will likely share its powertrains with the Grand Vitara, giving customers multiple choices:
- 1.5L Mild Hybrid Petrol
- Power: 103 bhp
- Transmission: 5-speed manual and automatic options.
- 1.5L Strong Hybrid Petrol (Atkinson cycle)
- Power: 116 bhp combined output.
- Transmission: e-CVT.
- Expected to deliver excellent mileage (20–25 kmpl).
- 1.5L CNG
- Power: 88 bhp.
- Unique for being India’s first SUV with an underbody-mounted CNG tank, ensuring better boot space compared to conventional CNG cars.
This multi-fuel strategy makes the SUV appealing to a wide spectrum of buyers, from urban commuters to long-distance travelers.
Expected Price
While official pricing will be revealed at launch, industry estimates suggest:
- Base Variants: Rs 10–10.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Top Hybrid Variant: Rs 18–19 lakh (ex-showroom).
This positions the new SUV directly against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Toyota Hyryder, all of which dominate the Rs 10–20 lakh midsize SUV segment.
Rivals
The new Maruti SUV will compete with:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (its own sibling)
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- Honda Elevate
FAQs About New Maruti SUV
Q1. When will the new Maruti SUV launch in India?
It will launch on 3rd September 2025.
Q2. What will be the price range?
Expected between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q3. Will it have ADAS features?
Yes, this will be Maruti’s first SUV with Level-2 ADAS.
Q4. Which engines will be offered?
1.5L mild hybrid petrol, 1.5L strong hybrid petrol, and 1.5L CNG.
Q5. How will it be different from the Grand Vitara?
The new SUV will be more affordable, sold through Arena dealerships, and may feature AWD and underbody CNG tank.
Conclusion
The new Maruti Arena SUV (likely Escudo) is gearing up to be one of the biggest launches of 2025. With its bold design, Level-2 ADAS, Dolby Atmos, AWD option, and hybrid-CNG powertrain choices, it is set to bring strong competition to established rivals like the Creta and Seltos. Positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, it will cater to families and individuals looking for a modern, safe, and fuel-efficient SUV under Rs 20 lakh.
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