Maruti Suzuki Set for Major Launch on September 3 – Is It the New Escudo SUV or e-Vitara EV?

Maruti Suzuki has shared a cryptic “Block Your Date” invite for September 3, for an upcoming launch, simply teasing that “Something Exciting Is Brewing.” While the company hasn’t revealed any specifics, speculation is rife. It could be the long-rumoured Escudo (codename Y17), a new compact SUV. Or perhaps the all-electric e‑Vitara, which would mark Maruti’s entry into the EV segment. There’s also talk of a three-row Grand Vitara aimed at larger families. The official reveal is still a few weeks away, but here’s a quick look at what might be heading our way.

So What Could It Be?

Maruti Suzuki Escudo

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo is likely to be positioned between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara in the brand’s SUV lineup and could be retailed through the Arena network, and will complement the Grand Vitara, which continues to be sold via Maruti’s premium Nexa channel. While official details are yet to be confirmed, early indications suggest the Escudo might be slightly longer than the Grand Vitara.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Escudo India Launch Likely in September

Additionally, the Escudo is expected to be a five-seater and may feature a 1.5-litre petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech, along with optional CNG, manual and automatic gearbox choices, and possibly AWD. It’s also likely to be underpinned by Suzuki’s global-C platform, which currently forms the base for the Grand Vitara.

Maruti Suzuki Escudo rivals: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, Citroen Basalt, and Tata Curvv. 

Expected Price Range: ₹13-18 lakh (ex-showroom, India)

More details here.

Maruti Suzuki e Vitara

Maruti’s first all-electric SUV, the e Vitara, has already entered production at its Gujarat plant as of April 2025. Built on the new Heartect-e platform, it’s expected to feature 49 kWh and 61 kWh LFP battery options, with power outputs of up to 172 bhp for front-wheel drive and 181 bhp for AWD. 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki to Launch e Vitara EV In India; Exports to 100+ Markets Planned

Maruti Suzuki e Vitara Rivals: Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE 6, and MG ZS EV.

Expected Price: ₹17- 23 lakh (ex-showroom, India)

You can read all about the e Vitara here. 

Grand Vitara 7‑seater

Maruti is also reportedly developing a larger, three-row version of the Grand Vitara, expected to be priced between ₹18–24 lakh. Likely to share its platform and powertrains with the existing Grand Vitara, the 7-seater SUV could offer the same strong-hybrid petrol setup along with both manual and automatic transmission options. Feature highlights may include a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, and a head-up display. 

Also Read: Updated Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Spied Again; Is It Really A Three-Row Version?

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 3-Row SUV Rivals: Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, and MG Hector Plus. 

Expected Price: ₹22-27 lakh (ex-showroom, India)

Acko Drive Says

Maruti Suzuki is staying tight-lipped, simply telling us to “wait and watch.” However, our dealer sources suggest the upcoming launch is likely an SUV, but not an EV, ruling out the e Vitara for now. 

A recent Reuters report revealed Maruti has scaled back e Vitara production due to a shortage of rare earth materials, essential for EVs and ADAS systems. While global manufacturers are securing export licences from China, Indian carmakers are still in the queue, causing manufacturing delays. 

All signs currently point to the Escudo, but with Maruti, surprises aren’t off the table. A 7-seater Grand Vitara or even the e Vitara could still break cover on September 3. So as Maruti said, let’s wait and watch.