Aiming to strengthen its SUV portfolio, Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to launch two new models – a new midsize SUV and electric e Vitara. The new midsize SUV is slated to go on sale with its official price announcement on September 3 via Arena dealerships, while the launch date of the Maruti e Vitara is yet to be revealed. However, the carmaker has started exports of its first electric SUV from 26th August, 2025. The upcoming new Maruti Arena SUV is widely known as the ‘Escudo’; however, it will carry a new nameplate at launch.
Competition & Price Expectations:
In the midsize SUV segment, the new Maruti SUV will challenge the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun and Toyota Hyryder. Within the company’s product lineup, it will sit between the Brezza and Grand Vitara. While prices will be officially announced next week, it’s estimated to be priced around 10 lakh – Rs 10.50 lakh for the base variant and nearly Rs 16 lakh – Rs 17 lakh for the top trim.
Platform & Engines:
Similar to the Grand Vitara, the new Maruti Arena SUV will be built on the modular Global C platform, and come with three engine options – a 103bhp, 1.5L mild hybrid, a 116bhp strong hybrid and an 88bhp 1.5L CNG. Both manual and gearboxes will be on offer. According to media reports, it will be the first Maruti Suzuki to come with an underbody-mounted CNG kit, saving the boot space. Toyota might also introduce a rebadged version of this Arena-exclusive SUV.
Design & Features:
The new Maruti SUV is expected to share design elements and features with the Grand Vitara. If reports are to believed, it will be the first Maruti Suzuki in India to feature Level-2 ADAS suite and Dolby Atmos. Other highlights might include a 9-inch infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting, wireless phone charger, automatic AC, etc.
Image source: NEXPORR VIA REDIDIT
