Auto manufacturer Maruti Suzuki to unveil new product on September 3, raising speculation about whether it will be the new Escudo SUV or e-Vitara electric vehicle.

Maruti Suzuki, one of India's leading car manufacturers, has faced a setback in the production of its e Vitara SUV due to a shortage of rare earth materials. This shortage has led to global manufacturers securing export licences from China, causing manufacturing delays for the e Vitara.

However, the company is not resting on its laurels. Maruti Suzuki is reportedly planning to launch a new compact SUV, possibly the Escudo, on September 3. The Escudo is expected to be a five-seater SUV, underpinned by Suzuki's global-C platform, which currently forms the base for the Grand Vitara.

The Escudo may feature a 1.5-litre petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology, along with manual and automatic gearbox choices, and possibly all-wheel drive (AWD). It is also speculated that the Escudo may offer optional Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) options, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Meanwhile, the 7-seater Grand Vitara is set to offer both manual and automatic transmission options. The SUV is expected to share its platform and powertrains with the existing Grand Vitara. The 7-seater Grand Vitara may also offer a strong-hybrid petrol setup, providing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

Feature highlights for the 7-seater Grand Vitara may include a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, and a head-up display. The SUV is likely to rival Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, and MG Hector Plus in the competitive Indian SUV market.

The e Vitara, Maruti Suzuki's first all-electric SUV, has already entered production. The e Vitara is built on the new Heartect-e platform and is expected to feature 49 kWh and 61 kWh LFP battery options. The SUV may offer power outputs of up to 172 bhp for front-wheel drive and 181 bhp for AWD.

Interestingly, Maruti Suzuki has not confirmed the launch of the e Vitara for September 3. However, the company has not ruled out the possibility of a simultaneous launch of both the Escudo and the e Vitara.

In addition to the Escudo, Maruti Suzuki is also reportedly developing a larger, three-row version of the Grand Vitara. The exact details about this new model are yet to be revealed, but it is expected to further bolster Maruti Suzuki's SUV lineup.

As the automobile industry continues to evolve, Maruti Suzuki remains at the forefront, innovating and adapting to meet the changing demands of consumers. With the launch of the Escudo and the expected release of the e Vitara and the larger Grand Vitara, it appears that Maruti Suzuki is poised to continue its dominance in the Indian automobile market.

On a separate note, major tech product launches are expected around September 3, with Samsung and Huawei presenting their latest foldable smartphones on September 4 and the IFA Berlin starting on September 5, showcasing smart home and AI innovations. It will be an exciting time for both the automobile and tech industries, with several key players unveiling their latest offerings.

Auto manufacturer Maruti Suzuki to unveil new product on September 3, raising speculation about whether it will be the new Escudo SUV or e-Vitara electric vehicle.