The Indian automobile industry is gearing up for an exciting moment as Maruti Suzuki prepares to launch the much-awaited Victoris/Escudo SUV tomorrow. This model, which has already made waves in international markets under the Escudo badge, will make its way to India with the name Victoris, strengthening Maruti’s SUV portfolio.
SUVs have become one of the most demanded vehicle categories in India, thanks to their rugged design, higher ground clearance, practicality, and road presence. With rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder dominating the mid-size SUV space, the Victoris/Escudo has a lot to prove. Let’s take a closer look at what this upcoming SUV could bring to Indian roads.
Design and Styling – A Blend of Bold and Modern
The Maruti Victoris/Escudo is expected to feature sharp design lines, bold LED headlamps, a sculpted bonnet, and a wide grille that gives it an aggressive road presence. International versions of the Escudo showcase a sleek side profile with sporty alloy wheels, black cladding, and stylish roof rails, which are likely to be carried forward in the India-spec Victoris.
The SUV is also expected to offer LED DRLs, LED tail-lamps, a shark-fin antenna, and dual-tone color options, making it attractive to younger buyers. Maruti has been focusing on blending practicality with stylish appeal, and the Victoris will be no exception.
Interiors and Features – Premium Yet Practical
On the inside, the Maruti Victoris/Escudo is likely to get a premium cabin layout with soft-touch materials, a digital driver display, and a large touchscreen infotainment system. Maruti is expected to equip the SUV with the latest SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with voice-enabled commands.
Other expected features include:
- Automatic climate control
- Wireless charging pad
- Ventilated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof (top variants)
- Premium leatherette upholstery
- 360-degree camera
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) in higher trims
This feature list will put the Victoris/Escudo on par with rivals like the Creta, Seltos, and Grand Vitara.
Engine and Performance – Focus on Efficiency and Choice
Maruti Suzuki is expected to offer the Victoris with both petrol and strong hybrid engine options. Borrowing from the Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder, the Victoris could come with:
- 1.5L K15C Smart Hybrid Petrol Engine – Known for its balance of power and efficiency.
- 1.5L Strong Hybrid Petrol Engine – For those looking at better fuel economy and eco-friendlier performance.
Both manual and automatic transmission options will be available, along with AWD (All-Wheel Drive) in select variants, making the SUV suitable for off-road and adventure-loving customers.
Safety Features – Raising the Standards
Maruti is expected to load the Victoris/Escudo with a strong safety package, which may include:
- 6 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill-Hold Assist and Hill Descent Control
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- 360-degree camera
- ADAS features (lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more in higher trims)
With stricter crash test norms in India, Maruti will likely work to ensure the Victoris secures a strong safety rating, boosting customer confidence.
Expected Price and Variants
The pricing of the Maruti Victoris/Escudo will be crucial. Maruti is known for competitive pricing, and considering the segment, the SUV is expected to be priced between ₹10.5 lakh to ₹18.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
Variants will likely include LXi, VXi, ZXi, and ZXi+, with hybrid and AWD options available in higher trims.
Rivals in the Indian Market
Once launched, the Maruti Victoris/Escudo will go head-to-head with:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- MG Astor
- Skoda Kushaq
- Volkswagen Taigun
This makes the segment highly competitive, but with Maruti’s extensive service network, reliable engines, and fuel-efficient technology, the Victoris has the potential to stand out.
Why the Launch Matters
The launch of the Maruti Victoris/Escudo marks a significant move for Maruti Suzuki. With SUVs becoming the largest-selling category in India, expanding their SUV lineup is a logical step. Customers who wanted a mix of premium feel, hybrid technology, and Maruti’s trust factor will find the Victoris/Escudo appealing.
Final Thoughts
As the Maruti Victoris/Escudo prepares for its big India launch tomorrow, anticipation is at its peak. With stylish looks, premium features, hybrid efficiency, and competitive pricing, the SUV could shake up the mid-size SUV segment.
If Maruti gets the pricing and feature balance right, the Victoris/Escudo may soon become one of the top-selling SUVs in India, just like the Brezza and Grand Vitara.
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