Maruti Suzuki Escudo 2026: Price, Launch Date, Design

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo is set to return to India as a mid-size SUV, ending years of speculation. Maruti Suzuki has confirmed the revival, and the new Escudo will slot between the Brezza and the upcoming Tour S. Here is everything we know about the expected price, launch date, design, and how it fits the lineup.

Maruti Suzuki Escudo Expected Price in India

Industry insiders suggest the Maruti Suzuki Escudo will be priced between ₹12 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions it above the Brezza (₹8.29 lakh to ₹13.98 lakh) and below the Tour S, which is expected to start around ₹20 lakh. The Escudo will compete directly with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Skoda Kushaq. Maruti Suzuki aims to undercut rivals by ₹1-2 lakh while offering similar features.

The base petrol variant could start near ₹12 lakh, while the top-end hybrid might touch ₹18 lakh. A CNG option is also under consideration, which would make it the first mid-size SUV with factory-fitted CNG. Maruti Suzuki has not confirmed the final price list, but the company has a history of aggressive pricing.

Maruti Suzuki Escudo Launch Date and Availability

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo is expected to launch in India by mid-2026. A debut at the Auto Expo 2026 is likely, with bookings opening shortly after. Production is planned at Maruti's Gujarat plant, which currently builds the Brezza and other SUVs. The company will initially roll out petrol and mild-hybrid versions, with a strong hybrid arriving later.

Dealerships have already started informal waitlist registrations in metro cities. The Escudo will be sold through Maruti's regular Nexa and Arena networks, though the company may create a separate premium channel. Deliveries are expected to begin within a month of launch, with a waiting period of 3-6 months depending on the variant.

Maruti Suzuki Escudo Design and Platform

The new Escudo will be based on the Global C-platform, which also underpins the S-Cross and the Toyota Corolla Cross. This platform allows for a longer wheelbase and better crash safety. The design will borrow cues from the Suzuki eVX concept, featuring a bold grille, sleek LED headlamps, and a coupe-like roofline. The rear will get connected tail lamps and a roof spoiler.

Inside, the Escudo will offer a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360-degree camera. Maruti Suzuki will also include Level 2 ADAS, which is a first for the brand in India. The boot space is expected to be around 450 litres, expandable to 1,500 litres with the rear seats folded.

Maruti Suzuki Escudo vs Brezza vs Tour S: How It Fits the Lineup

The Escudo fills the gap between the sub-4-metre Brezza and the larger Tour S. The Brezza is a compact SUV with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, while the Tour S is a rebadged Toyota Hyryder with a 1.5-litre strong hybrid. The Escudo will offer both mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid powertrains, making it the most versatile option.

The Escudo will be offered with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing around 140 bhp, paired with a 6-speed automatic or CVT. A strong hybrid variant will combine a 1.5-litre petrol with an electric motor, delivering up to 25 kmpl. Maruti Suzuki will also offer an all-wheel-drive option on higher trims, a feature absent in the Brezza.

Compared to the Hyundai Creta, the Escudo will have a more efficient hybrid system and a lower starting price. The Creta starts at ₹11.11 lakh, but its top-end diesel crosses ₹20 lakh. The Escudo's hybrid will undercut the Creta's diesel on running costs, making it a strong alternative.

Maruti Suzuki Escudo Engine and Features

Two engine options are confirmed: a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (K15T) and a 1.5-litre strong hybrid (based on the Toyota system). The turbo-petrol will produce 140 bhp and 220 Nm, while the hybrid will offer a combined output of 120 bhp and a claimed mileage of 25 kmpl. A CNG variant is also in the works, with a factory-fitted kit.

Feature highlights include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital cluster, a head-up display, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate. Safety will include 6 airbags, electronic stability control, and ADAS with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Escudo will also get a 360-degree camera and front parking sensors.

FAQ

What is the expected price of the Maruti Suzuki Escudo?

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo is expected to be priced between ₹12 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom). The base petrol variant will start around ₹12 lakh, while the top-end hybrid may touch ₹18 lakh.

When will the Maruti Suzuki Escudo launch in India?

The Escudo is expected to launch by mid-2026, with a possible debut at the Auto Expo 2026. Bookings are likely to open shortly after the reveal.

What engine options will the Escudo offer?

The Escudo will offer a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 1.5-litre strong hybrid. A CNG variant is also under consideration.

How does the Escudo compare with the Brezza?

The Escudo is larger, more powerful, and more expensive than the Brezza. It offers hybrid technology and ADAS, which the Brezza lacks.

Will the Escudo have all-wheel drive?

Yes, Maruti Suzuki is expected to offer an all-wheel-drive option on higher trims of the Escudo.