Maruti Escudo to Get Underbody CNG Tank

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch a new mid-size SUV, rumoured to be called the Escudo, in India on September 3, 2025. Internally codenamed Y17, the new mid-size SUV will come with hybrid, petrol and CNG fuel options. A new media report claims that the Maruti Escudo will be the first model to feature an underbody CNG tank.

Escudo CNG - Key Details

The report also claims that the new SUV could carry a different nameplate, and not ESCUDO. The existing Maruti Suzuki CNG cars are offered with CNG cylinder placed in the boot. The CNG tank placed underbody will help MSIL to free up space in the boot. Also See - Maruti Suzuki Escudo - ARENA's game changer

The report claims that the many Maruti Suzuki CNG car buyers have complained about the lack of boot space due to the placement of the CNG tank. The CNG kits in Maruti cars are installed on the production-line. This allows Maruti engineers to calibrate the engine, transmission, suspension and brakes of cars for CNG from day one.

The underbody CNG tank installation is the biggest CNG technology update for Maruti cars in India. Not just Escudo, the future Maruti cars will also receive the underbody CNG tank.

Tata Motors and Hyundai Motor India have already upgraded their CNG kits to free up more space in the boot. Both companies are offering twin-CNG cylinder technology, which allows two small CNG cylinders to be placed in the boot.

First introduced in 2010, Maruti Suzuki CNG technology is now available in 13 of its 16 passenger vehicles in the domestic market. Maruti Suzuki sold 5,94,166 CNG cars in FY25 with a market share of 70.8 percent. Tata Motors and Hyundai commands 16.6% and 9.4% CNG market share, respectively, in FY25.

High-End Features

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo will be sold through ARENA dealerships network, and will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and others in the category. It will be the first Maruti Suzuki car to feature LEVEL 2 ADAS tech. Moreover, the SUV will have a powered tailgate and 4WD (Four-Wheel-Drive) drivetrain. Additionally, the SUV will be the first Maruti to offer Dolby Atmos immersive sound system.

The Maruti Suzuki Escudo will be powered by the tried & tested 1.5-litre, K15C mild-hybrid petrol engine with 5-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic. This version will come with a 4WD system. The hybrid version could also be introduced with a Toyota-sourced 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an e-CVT.

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