Mahindra, the manufacturer of popular Utility Vehicles like the Bolero, Scorpio and XUV 500, appears to be lining up a spate of all-new models in India. In the last few months, we have caught their upcoming new SUV (codenamed U301 and touted to be the Bolero replacement) and their all-new compact SUV (S101) testing in and around Chennai. The testing phase isn't over yet and these fresh shots of S101, that was seen testing in an arterial road in Chennai earlier today, stands testimony to that.
When launched, this all-new model that should be less than 4 meters in length would be Mahindra's first proper shot at success in the compact SUV segment. Currently enjoying a near monopoly in that segment, the Ford Ecosport would have its mirrors full of this new Mahindra SUV soon.
Though the thick layer of camouflage hardly reveals details, the new Mahindra looks tall and sharp. Picking up clues from the new Scorpio and the upcoming XUV 500 facelift, we expect the new model to feature the new-age Mahindra grille with floating vertical slats adorned with chrome. That apart, the flared wheel arches, the horizontal ridges in the mirrors and the sloping roof and window-line make their presence felt. Let's just hope Mahindra doesn't spoil things with fussy detailing though.
To avail excise duty concessions, Mahindra is set to be working on new petrol and diesel engines with displacements of less than 1.2 and 1.5 liters respectively. As usual, the mechanicals and underpinnings should be robust and last the distance, two typical Mahindra traits.
With the Bolero, Scorpio and XUV 500 pulling in tens of thousands of customers into Mahindra showrooms every month, the upcoming compact SUV is only going to strengthen the Indian manufacturer's position in the market.
Is this the S101 from Mahindra? It looked different in some spyshots posted in other sites.
ReplyDeleteYes, we believe so. Check out our earlier spy-shots of the same car.
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