🔍 Overview
Toyota is preparing to launch a brand-new compact SUV in India that will compete directly with the Hyundai Creta. This upcoming SUV is likely to be a rebadged version of Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming Escudo, a midsize SUV positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara.
📅 Launch Timeline & Maruti Escudo Highlights
- Launch Date: September 3, 2025; expected to go on sale before Diwali.
- Platform: Built on the Global‑C platform, co-developed by Maruti and Toyota. It shares mechanical components, design cues, and interior features with the Grand Vitara.
- Size & Seating: It will be a 5-seater SUV, slightly longer than the Grand Vitara (~4.34 meters), offering better boot space and a more spacious cabin.
- Engine Options:
- 1.5L petrol with mild-hybrid tech (~103 bhp), paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
- A 1.5L strong-hybrid option (~115 bhp) is also likely.
- CNG variant may be offered in select trims.
- Expected Price: Between ₹9 lakh and ₹16 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting the Grand Vitara but offering better features than the Brezza.
🛻 What to Expect from the Toyota Version
Toyota’s version of the Escudo is likely to be similar to the Urban Cruiser Hyryder but may come with fewer premium features to keep costs down.
- Design: Slightly tweaked exterior design compared to the Maruti version but based on the same platform.
- Features: Expected to include touchscreen infotainment, leatherette seats, heads-up display (HUD), wireless charging, connected car tech, rear AC vents, and ambient lighting.
- Safety: Equipped with standard safety features like ABS, EBD, ESC, hill-hold assist, and multiple airbags. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are unlikely.
- Engines: Toyota is expected to use the same 1.5L mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid engines as Maruti. AWD won’t be offered.
- Gearbox Options: 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic for the mild hybrid; e-CVT for the strong hybrid.
💡 Why This Matters
- Toyota–Maruti Partnership: This SUV will be another product of the Toyota–Suzuki alliance, helping both brands expand efficiently by sharing platforms and production costs.
- Smart Market Positioning: It fills the gap between entry-level sub-compact SUVs like Brezza and premium ones like the Grand Vitara or Hyryder.
- Tough Creta Rival: With increasing competition in the ₹10–15 lakh SUV segment, Toyota’s version will give buyers a fresh option with a trusted brand name and fuel-efficient tech.
✅ Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Expected Detail |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | September 3, 2025 |
| Maruti Escudo Positioning | Between Brezza and Grand Vitara |
| Platform | Global-C (same as Grand Vitara) |
| Engine Options | 1.5L mild-hybrid, 1.5L strong-hybrid, CNG |
| Seating | 5-seater |
| Expected Price | ₹9 – ₹16 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Toyota Version | Slightly different styling, same powertrains |
| Main Rivals | Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Astor |