Maruti Escudo Is eVitara? We Explain
Maruti Suzuki is all set to enter the EV race in India. The eVitara, its first all-electric product, was first showcased at EICMA in November last year. The electric SUV made its India debut at the Auto Expo 2025. In an unexpected turn of events, the carmaker seems to have dropped the 'e-Vitara' name. The EV could be called 'e-Escudo' when launched. Furthermore, Maruti has also sent out 'block your date' invites for an upcoming event, scheduled for September 3, 2025. This, we presume, is for the e-Escudo's market launch.
The carmaker seems to have renamed the electric SUV ahead of its market debut. A previous set of spy images shared by Rushlane showed an undisguised eVitara being tested with the 'e-Escudo' badge on it. The 'e' here is finished in Blue. These pictures were reportedly captured outside Maruti's facility in Gurgaon.
Maruti Suzuki will have strong focus on exports of the upcoming EV. Another possible case is that the vehicle spotted is an export-headed unit for sale abroad. In many international markets, the Escudo is a rebadged Vitara. Thus, it makes sense to expect the eVitara to be sold as 'e-Escudo' in some country! The chances for this case are minimal though. Continue reading and you'll know why.
Maruti e-Escudo: What To Expect?
The spy shots confirm the eEscudo to have the same design as the eVitara. The badge is likely the only thing that's changed. This EV is based on Suzuki's “High-Tech & Adventure” design philosophy. It features Y-shaped LED DRLs, LED tail lamps with a full-width light bar, a bold front bumper, flared wheel arches at the rear, rear door handles that sit on the C-pillar, 18-inch aerodynamic wheels, and a charging port that sits on the front flanks. The overall styling is rugged and SUV-like.
The length, width and height are 4,275 mm, 1,800 mm, and 1,635 mm, respectively. Maruti Suzuki will likely offer this SUV in three grades- Delta, Zeta and Alpha. We'll get to learn more closer to the launch.
Inside, the e-Escudo will have a smart layout and classy design. There will be a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. In addition to this, it will also come with a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster, 360-degree camera, wireless phone charger, electric parking brake with auto hold and level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). It will become India''s first Maruti Suzuki vehicle to feature ADAS.
The safety package will also have seven airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), front and rear parking sensors and more.
Maruti Suzuki has based the e-Escudo on its new-age Heartect-e platform. This has been co-developed with Toyota and features an integrated eAxle. Two battery packs are likely to be offered- 49 kWh and 61 kWh, with the latter claimed to offer up to 500 km in range.
The smaller battery version has an output of 142 bhp and 189 Nm , while the larger is capable of producing 172 bhp and 189 Nm from the single motor setup. Suzuki sells both single-motor and dual-motor versions of the EV in global markets. If both these will be brought to India is something that we'll have to wait to learn...
Maruti Escudo In Works?
Source: Gaadiwaadi
Maruti Suzuki had registered two trademarks in 2024- the Escudo and Torqnado. Official documents have confirmed that one of these will go to upcoming SUVs. The company is likely making an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) version of the e-Escudo.
Recent media reports also talk of the Indo-Japanese carmaker readying a mid-size SUV that will be bigger than the Grand Vitara, but will be sold through Arena network. Test mules of this have also been spotted. The 'Escudo' name could be used on the upcoming Creta rival. It is expected to get pure and hybrid petrol and CNG powertrains when launched.