Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to electrify the Indian auto market with the launch of its first all-electric vehicle. Previously showcased as the eVitara at EICMA in November last year, the electric SUV made its Indian debut at the 2025 Auto Expo. However, it seems Maruti Suzuki has decided to rebrand the EV as e-Escudo, ahead of its official market introduction.
The company has sparked speculation by sending out “block your date” invites for a significant event on September 3, 2025, which is likely set to be the launch of this much-anticipated EV. Interestingly, spy images released earlier showed the vehicle sporting an “e-Escudo” badge, hinting at the upcoming name change.
But why might Maruti Suzuki rename the eVitara as e-Escudo? Let’s explore.
Why the Name “e-Escudo”?
Spy photos of an undisguised eVitara with an “e-Escudo” badge were reportedly captured near Maruti Suzuki’s Gurgaon facility. The “e” in the badge is highlighted in blue, signifying its cleaner, electric engineering. Globally, many Suzuki cars are marketed under different names. For instance, the Vitara is often rebadged as the Escudo in select international markets. This likely explains the switch, especially as Maruti Suzuki has hinted at focusing on exports for this electric SUV.
Another possibility is that the vehicle spotted was an export-destined version. It’s not uncommon for carmakers to use different branding, depending on the target market. However, this distinction may have a minimal impact on domestic buyers.
With the renaming making headlines, let’s take a closer look at what the Maruti e-Escudo aims to deliver.
What to Expect from the Maruti e-Escudo
The spy shots confirm that the design of the e-Escudo remains consistent with the eVitara. The SUV is built on Suzuki’s “High-Tech & Adventure” design philosophy, combining ruggedness with modern elegance. Here are some of its standout design elements:
- Exterior Styling: Y-shaped LED DRLs, full-width LED tail lamps, bold front bumpers, and flared wheel arches. It also features aerodynamic 18-inch wheels, a charging port on the front flank, and rear door handles smartly integrated into the C-pillar.
- Dimensions: Measuring 4,275 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height, the SUV maintains a dynamic yet compact profile suitable for urban roads and adventure trails.
Advanced Features and Smart Technology
Inside the e-Escudo, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed cabin outfitted with cutting-edge technology:
- Infotainment: A 10.25-inch touchscreen offering smartphone connectivity.
- Driver Comfort: A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat for enhanced convenience and ergonomics.
- Controls and Safety:
- A fully digital 10.1-inch instrument cluster.
- 360-degree surround-view camera.
- Wireless phone charging.
- Electric parking brake with auto-hold function.
- ADAS (Level 2): Maruti Suzuki’s first-ever implementation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in India, providing safety features like adaptive cruise control and collision-prevention mechanisms.
Safety is a priority, as evidenced by the inclusion of seven airbags, a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), and sensors installed at both the front and rear for easy parking.
Battery, Range, and Performance
Built on Suzuki’s state-of-the-art Heartect-e platform co-developed with Toyota, the e-Escudo offers exceptional efficiency and performance:
- Battery Options:
- A 49 kWh battery delivering 142 bhp and 189 Nm of torque.
- A larger 61 kWh battery producing 172 bhp with the same torque, offering a claimed range of up to 500 km.
- Both versions rely on a single-motor setup, though Suzuki has showcased dual-motor variants in global markets. Will both configurations be launched in India? Time will tell.
Is An ICE Escudo Also in the Works?
Interestingly, Maruti Suzuki filed trademarks for two names in 2024—Escudo and Torqnado. While the e-Escudo is an EV, media reports suggest that an internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Escudo might also be under development.
Early reports hint at a mid-sized SUV larger than the Grand Vitara, which could potentially challenge the Hyundai Creta. Sold through Maruti’s Arena outlets, this version is expected to offer pure petroleum, hybrid, and CNG options. Test versions of this SUV have already been spotted in India.
Final Thoughts
Maruti Suzuki is poised to redefine the landscape of electric vehicles in India. With a robust focus on exports, premium features like ADAS, and sustainability-driven engineering, the e-Escudo showcases the carmaker’s commitment to innovation. From its distinctive design to its advanced tech offerings, the e-Escudo is more than just a badge change; it’s a step toward a greener automotive future.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting launch, and mark your calendars for September 3, 2025. One thing’s for sure, Maruti Suzuki’s e-Escudo promises to electrify the Indian market in more ways than one!
