Maruti Suzuki Victoris (Escudo) Arrives: Specs, Launch & Why It Matters

Adeel Asif

Publish On: 03-Sep-25

On September 3, 2025, Maruti Suzuki officially unveiled the Victoris, likely to be badged as either Maruti Suzuki Victoris or Maruti Suzuki Escudo, a new compact SUV aimed right at the heart of India’s mid-size SUV market.

Premium SUV Under Arena: Position & Strategy

Victoris slots neatly between the Brezza and the premium Grand Vitara, sold via Maruti’s more accessible Arena network. It marks Maruti’s boldest push yet into feature-rich SUVs, directly targeting rivals like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Curvv, Skoda Kushaq, and Honda Elevate.

It’s also Maruti’s first SUV with Level-2 ADAS, combining safety with tech-savvy convenience at a compelling price point.

What Makes Victoris Stand Out?

5-Star Bharat NCAP Safety

Victoris became the second Maruti model after Dzire to grab 5-star Bharat NCAP adult and child occupant ratings. Standard safety includes six airbags, ESC, pedestrian protection, seatbelt reminders, ISOFIX, and 360° camera, alongside Level-2 ADAS , a major shift for Maruti Suzuki.

Inside & Tech Features

The cabin features a 10.25-inch digital driver display, large infotainment (9-10″), wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Dolby Atmos sound, Alexa Auto integration, 64-colour ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. You also get a powered tailgate with gesture control, wireless charging, and 35+ connected car features, luxury touches rare in this price bracket.

Powertrains & Platform

Built on Suzuki’s Global-C platform, Victoris offers:

1.5 L naturally aspirated petrol (≈103 PS, 137 Nm)
1.5 L petrol + strong hybrid (≈116 PS combined)
1.5 L factory-fitted CNG variant (~88 PS)

Transmissions include 5-speed manual, 6-speed torque-converter auto, and e-CVT with hybrid models. Expect front-wheel drive as standard, with AWD for higher trims in some markets.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Feature	Details
Platform	Suzuki Global-C
Length × Width × Height	~4360 mm × ~1795 mm × ~1655 mm
Wheelbase	~2600 mm
Powertrain options	1.5 L petrol; 1.5 L petrol strong-hybrid; 1.5 L petrol + CNG
Power & Torque	~103 PS/137 Nm (NA petrol); ~116 PS combined (hybrid); ~88 PS (CNG)
Transmissions	5-MT, 6-AT (petrol/mild hybrid); e-CVT (strong hybrid)
Safety	6 airbags, ESC, AEB, ADAS L2, 360° camera, ISOFIX, 5-star Bharat NCAP
Tech & Comfort	Digital cluster, 10″+ touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Auto, Dolby, Sunroof, Ventilated seats, Ambient lighting

Pricing & Positioning

Early estimates suggest a starting price between ₹9.7 lakh and ₹10.5 lakh (ex-showroom), with higher trims likely stretching to ₹16–19 lakh depending on variant and fuel system.

By bundling advanced safety, ADAS, hybrid options, and premium cabin features at this price point, Maruti is clearly aiming to outscore rivals on overall value, not just fuel efficiency.

Why Victoris Matters

As someone who’s followed Maruti’s journey, this feels like a turning point. For years, Maruti leaned on affordability and mass appeal. Victoris shows a willingness to embrace modern safety and tech demands without hiking prices steeply.

It’s a clear signal: Indian car buyers now expect family SUVs that are safe, smart, and stylish, not just cheap. Victoris could reshape expectations in this segment.

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Author Opinion

This model could be a game-changer, especially for families wanting more than just mileage. The inclusion of Level-2 ADAS and a 5-star safety rating in a ₹10-lakh SUV is ambitious. If Maruti backs it with strong after-sales, this car may push competitors to raise their game. For many buyers, Victoris could become the new default “smart SUV” choice under ₹20 lakh.

In summary, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris (Escudo) debuted on September 3, 2025 as a fresh mid-size SUV that brings Maruti into the safety-and-tech era. With strong value, multiple fuel choices, premium cabin touches, and top safety credentials, it’s poised to redefine what entry SUVs can offer in India.