Maruti Suzuki’s first-ever all-electric SUV, which was initially named the e Vitara, could also go on sale as the e Escudo. Recent photos captured of production-ready test mule wearing the “eEscudo” badge have raised questions about a possible last-minute name switch before its expected premiere.
This also adds a layer of drama to the path that Maruti’s flagship EV has been following, having started off as the eVX concept and being subsequently confirmed as the e Vitara at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Escudo is already being used by Suzuki for the Vitara in the Japanese market, indicating that rebranding will be a smart strategic move for the Indian market.
Launch Date Confusion: EV or a New ICE SUV?
Basically, Maruti Suzuki has forwarded a ‘Block Your Date’ invite for something happening on September 3, 2025 and the whole world thought that this would be the launch of the e Vitara. But the possible name change and confusion over another rumored, unrelated ICE SUV of the same name, Escudo, led to further confusion. Some reports have said that the electric Escudo SUV may face a delay in its launch because of a lack of rare earth magnets, which are necessary for making EVs, and the September 3 event may witness the unveiling of the ICE-based Escudo SUV instead.
The ICE Escudo will be a five-seater one and will be slotted between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara and will take on the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos.
Read Also: Upcoming Electric Cars In India 2025: Launch Dates, Prices, And Features Revealed
What to Expect from the Maruti Suzuki e Escudo (e Vitara)
Whatever it’s called in the end, the name of the game is a Maruti’s first-ever EV will be a big fish in the market.
Platform and Powertrain: The electric SUV rides a new skateboard platform developed with Toyota. It will be available with a couple of battery choices – a 49kWh (offered on the funky Cooper SE/electric) and another, larger 61kWh high-voltage battery offering an official range of over 500km.
Design: The design is characterized by a unique appearance that includes three-point matrix LED DRLs, 18” aerodynamic alloys and rear door handles integrated in the C-pillar.
Features: This will be the first Maruti Suzuki model in India to get an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Expected to be premium, the cabin could come with umps as a panoramic sunroof, a large touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats and up to seven airbags.
It will compete in the crowded electric SUV market, going up against the likes of the Tata Curvv EV and Hyundai Creta Electric.