New Delhi, June 24 -- Maruti Suzuki, long hailed as the 'small car king' of India, is now firmly tightening its grip on the SUV space. The automaker is reportedly preparing to expand its utility vehicle portfolio with a brand-new compact SUV, likely to be named the Maruti Suzuki Escudo.

According to industry sources and recent trademark filings, the Escudo is a moniker the company registered last year alongside "Torqnado", reported HT Auto. Notably, Suzuki uses the Escudo name for the Vitara in markets like Japan. However, in the Indian context, the Escudo is expected to be a fresh product, tailored for local buyers and positioned strategically between the Brezza and the Grand Vitara.

As per the publication, the new SUV is anticipated t...