The All-New Suzuki Escudo: Unveiling the Ultimate Global B-Segment SUV

This vehicle is expected to directly compete with rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Mitsubishi Xforce. If introduced in Vietnam, the Escudo could be a turning point for Suzuki to reaffirm its position in the urban SUV market.

According to some sources, this upcoming SUV, codenamed Y17, is positioned between Suzuki’s existing Brezza and Grand Vitara models. However, what sets the Escudo apart is its larger dimensions than the Grand Vitara, coupled with a lower price point, offering significant advantages in practicality and ownership costs.

Suzuki Escudo is anticipated to be developed on the same Global-C platform as the Grand Vitara. It boasts a length of 4,345 mm, surpassing both the Hyundai Creta (4,330 mm) and Kia Seltos (4,365 mm). With its increased size, Suzuki’s new SUV is likely to offer a more spacious cabin and larger cargo area, catering to family needs and long-distance travels.

Although details are yet to be disclosed, the vehicle is likely to be equipped with modern conveniences such as a large infotainment screen, wireless connectivity, wireless phone charging, rear air vents, a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof in higher-end variants.

Suzuki has registered the “Escudo” trademark in India since 2024. This name is familiar in the Japanese market and some international markets, where it is used for the Grand Vitara. Reviving this name for an entirely new SUV showcases Suzuki’s clear direction in developing a global product line with a stronger image.

In 2025, Suzuki will introduce two new SUVs, one being the eVitara (electric), and the other believed to be the Escudo. Initially, the Y17 was developed as a 7-seater SUV, an extended version of the Grand Vitara, but plans changed, and this model will now be launched as a 5-seater to optimize costs and competitive positioning.

Suzuki Escudo is likely to retain the 1.5L naturally aspirated gasoline engine with 102 horsepower and 139 Nm of torque. It may come with a choice of a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or Suzuki’s signature AllGrip all-wheel-drive system.

However, industry experts question whether this engine will be sufficient for a vehicle larger and heavier than the Grand Vitara. In the Grand Vitara, the 1.5L engine has already been criticized for feeling underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded or during long-distance drives. Therefore, Suzuki may need to fine-tune the powertrain or optimize the vehicle’s weight to ensure satisfactory performance.

Another potential option is the 1.5L mild-hybrid powertrain with 114 horsepower, paired with Toyota’s e-CVT transmission. However, this solution comes at a higher cost and risks overlapping with the Grand Vitara in terms of pricing segments.

If introduced in Vietnam, the Escudo could replace the role of the previously sold Suzuki Vitara, which was discontinued due to high prices and less competitive specifications. With its size, convenience, and affordable pricing advantages, the Escudo would be a formidable contender in the B-SUV group, where the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Mitsubishi Xforce currently dominate.

Suzuki plans to produce approximately 200,000 units of the Escudo annually, catering to both the Indian domestic market and exports. Additionally, Toyota, Suzuki’s partner, is also developing a version based on the Y17 to fill the gap in its C-segment SUV lineup.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)