As the SUV segment continues to gain momentum in India, two of the leading automakers—Maruti Suzuki and Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TMK)—are gearing up to launch a total of three new models this year. These upcoming SUVs aim to cater to a broader customer base with offerings in electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engine (ICE) formats. Both brands are setting the stage to meet the growing demand for SUVs with cutting-edge technology, enhanced performance, and more eco-friendly options.
Upcoming Maruti & Toyota SUVs
1. Maruti Escudo – Launch Expected in Sep-Oct
Maruti Suzuki is set to introduce a new midsize SUV designed to challenge popular models like the Hyundai Creta and other competitors in the segment. While the Grand Vitara already serves this purpose, the Maruti Escudo will be positioned as a more affordable alternative.
Key details about the Maruti Escudo:
- It will feature the same 1.5L petrol mild-hybrid powertrain found in the Grand Vitara.
- However, it will likely miss out on the strong hybrid system and modern features like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).
- The Escudo will be slightly longer than the Grand Vitara, offering more boot space, making it an appealing option for families and those who require more storage.
The Maruti Escudo is expected to launch around the Sep-Oct timeframe.
2. Maruti e Vitara – Launch Expected in October
The Maruti e Vitara will be Maruti Suzuki’s first electric SUV. Set to launch in October, it will also be rebadged as the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, creating a shared platform between the two automakers.
Key details about the Maruti e Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser EV:
- Both the e Vitara and Urban Cruiser EV will come with two battery pack options: 49kWh and 61kWh.
- Power output will range from 144bhp to 174bhp/184bhp, depending on the variant.
- The higher-spec e Vitara is expected to deliver a range of over 500km on a single charge, though official range figures are yet to be confirmed.
- These two SUVs will share the powertrain, interior features, and technology but will have distinct exterior designs, reflecting each brand’s identity.
The Maruti e Vitara will be launched alongside its Toyota counterpart, the Urban Cruiser EV, in October.
3. Toyota Urban Cruiser EV – Expected Launch in Late 2025
While Toyota is bringing out the Urban Cruiser EV towards the end of 2025, it will be based on the same platform as the Maruti e Vitara. As mentioned, both the Maruti and Toyota versions will share many similarities, including the battery pack options and powertrain.
Key features of the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV:
- Similar to the Maruti e Vitara, the Urban Cruiser EV will offer the choice of two battery packs (49kWh and 61kWh) and will deliver similar power outputs of 144bhp and 174bhp/184bhp.
- With both models sharing the powertrain, the difference will lie primarily in the exterior design, giving each model a distinct look based on the brand’s design philosophy.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV is expected to be available toward the end of 2025, targeting a more eco-conscious audience looking for electric mobility options.
Key Highlights of Upcoming Maruti & Toyota SUVs
| SUV Model | Expected Launch | Powertrain | Battery Packs | Power Output | Range | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Escudo | Sep-Oct 2025 | 1.5L petrol mild-hybrid | – | – | – | Affordable alternative to Grand Vitara, more boot space, lacks ADAS |
| Maruti e Vitara | October 2025 | Electric | 49kWh, 61kWh | 144bhp, 174bhp/184bhp | 500km+ (higher spec) | First electric SUV, shared platform with Toyota Urban Cruiser EV |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser EV | Late 2025 | Electric | 49kWh, 61kWh | 144bhp, 174bhp/184bhp | 500km+ (higher spec) | Shared platform with Maruti e Vitara, unique design |
Conclusion
With the launch of the Maruti e Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, both automakers are making a significant push into the electric vehicle (EV) segment. While Maruti Suzuki focuses on offering affordable electric mobility through the e Vitara and a new midsize SUV, Toyota’s Urban Cruiser EV will likely appeal to customers looking for a similar EV experience with a distinct Toyota design.
The Maruti Escudo, launching as an affordable alternative to the Grand Vitara, will fill the gap in the midsize SUV market, offering a budget-friendly option with a strong petrol mild-hybrid powertrain.
Overall, these upcoming launches from Maruti Suzuki and Toyota promise to provide a wide variety of choices for SUV lovers, whether they prefer a traditional internal combustion engine, a hybrid powertrain, or are looking to switch to electric mobility.
