Maruti Escudo Price & Features:
India's leading car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, is set to expand its SUV portfolio with a significant update. While the company is gearing up to introduce its first electric car, the 'Maruti e Vitara', it is also planning to unveil another 5-seater SUV. This new model will position itself between the existing Maruti Grand Vitara and Maruti Brezza.
Officially, the name of this SUV hasn't been announced yet. However, media reports suggest it could be launched as 'Maruti Escudo'. Maruti Suzuki intends to sell this mid-size SUV through its Arena dealership network. Recently, the SUV has been spotted during various testing phases across different locations.
Source: aajtak
Sneak peeks from testing reveal a boomerang-style 3D LED taillight feature. This 5-seater SUV is expected to slot between the present Brezza and Grand Vitara in terms of size, potentially larger than the Maruti Brezza. Anticipate a bigger tailgate, integrated spoiler, high-mounted stop lamp, and shark fin antenna.
The powertrain options in the Maruti Escudo are anticipated to be similar to those in the current Grand Vitara. Prospective engines include the 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol with mild hybrid technology and a strong hybrid system borrowed from Toyota's 1.5-liter TNGA petrol engine. Reports also hint that a CNG powertrain could be offered.
Expect a spacious cabin and an interior loaded with advanced features in the Maruti Escudo. Early details suggest it may be slightly longer than the current Grand Vitara, which is 4,345 mm in length, promising more space and a larger boot. The existing Grand Vitara boasts a boot space of 373 liters.
Source: aajtak
Technological advancements in the Maruti Escudo might include a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As for safety, the SUV is expected to come standard with 6 airbags, a wireless phone charger, and a semi-digital instrument cluster. Additional features may include a flat-bottom steering wheel, automatic climate control, and multiple driving modes.
Launch and Production Details:
According to media reports, Maruti Suzuki plans to manufacture this new SUV at its Kharkhoda plant in Haryana. Toyota may also offer a model based on this SUV in the future. The much-anticipated launch in the Indian market is set for September 3.
The Maruti Suzuki Escudo aims to capture the high-volume mid-size SUV segment amidst competition from leaders Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. While exact pricing details will emerge closer to the launch, initial expectations suggest a starting price of around 1 million INR.
