The country’s largest utility vehicle manufacturer, Mahindra, is eyeing to dive into the increasingly popular micro-SUV segment in the country with a new model. Recently, a test mule of a small SUV was spotted testing in the wild. This newest test mule was spotted for the first time in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, near Mahindra’s newest test track. Reportedly, this new micro-SUV from Mahindra will sit below the XUV300 in the lineup and will be replacing the outgoing KUV100. This model will rival the likes of the Tata Punch and the forthcoming Hyundai Exter.
The pictures of the test mule of this micro-SUV from Mahindra have come courtesy of Motorbeam. The pictures show that the test mule boasted a smaller size than the outgoing sub-compact SUV XUV300 and a tad larger than any hatchback in the country. This suggests that the model will most likely be a micro-SUV. The test mule from the front looked a little upright and boasted a few grilles on the upper and lower portions. From the pictures, it can be noted that the bonnet is quite large and it also features flared wheel arches. Another unique thing about this test mule’s front end was that it boasted a set of dummy headlights.
Moving on to the rear of the test mule, not a lot of details were visible due to the camouflage, but it can be noted that it will boast a stumpy rear end. The test mule was also equipped with a sculpted rear bumper which had the reflectors integrated into it. Additionally, a rear spoiler with a high-mounted brake light could also be seen. Moreover, like the front, the rear end was also equipped with dummy taillights. Overall, the car appears to draw some inspiration from its elder sibling, the XUV300, and the forthcoming Mahindra BE vehicle prototypes.
Currently, technical specifications and information on this forthcoming micro-SUV are scarce. However, it is believed that this SUV will most likely come powered by a 1.2-liter petrol engine. It is also anticipated that the top-spec trims could also be offered with a more powerful 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine as well. In terms of the launch date, it is being speculated that this SUV could make its debut towards the end of 2024, and it will most likely be offered in the Rs 6-10 lakh range.
In other Mahindra news, the company recently launched the all-electric XUV400 SUV in the market at Rs 15.99 lakh, ex-showroom. Mahindra is offering the XUV400 in two variants. The EC variant is powered by a 34.5 kWh battery pack that generates 150 PS and 310 Nm of peak torque. The EC variant has a certified driving range of 375 km (MIDC). The next variant is the EL variant, which uses a 39.4 kWh battery pack that generates 150 PS and 310 Nm of peak torque. The power figures remain the same; however, this variant offers a greater range. It has a certified driving range of 456 km.
Keyword: Mahindra's micro-SUV test mule spied testing - Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch rival to arrive in 2024