Mahindra and Mahindra, the popular Indian carmaker, is preparing to launch two new SUVs in the near future. Recently, both of these upcoming models were spotted being tested together in Ladakh. The first SUV, the XUV300 sub-compact, is expected to be launched this year, while the larger Thar SUV is set to debut next year as a rival to the Maruti Jimny.
Images of the test mules have been widely shared on social media, revealing some key details about these upcoming SUVs. The facelift version of the XUV300 gives away very little information, except for the taillights which are likely to be tweaked. It is speculated that the SUV may also feature a connected LED light bar and a modified bumper. The overall rear section of the vehicle is expected to remain similar to the current model. The exterior of the XUV300 is likely to receive several updates including a redesigned grille, bonnet, and bumper. It might also sport a new C-shaped LED DRL and redesigned alloy wheels.
Partial images of the interior of the XUV300 facelift version have also been captured. It is anticipated that the SUV will come with a new free-standing touchscreen infotainment unit and a redesigned center console. Most of the other elements inside the cabin are expected to remain similar to the current generation of the XUV300. In terms of engines, Mahindra is likely to continue offering the 1.2-liter petrol and 1.5-liter diesel options for this sub-compact SUV.
On the other hand, the Thar five-door SUV reveals its new taillight setup more prominently. The square-shaped taillights, along with additional LED brake light units, turn indicators, and rear parking lights, have been spotted in previous spy shots. The overall design of the five-door Thar is expected to be similar to the three-door version, with the addition of two extra doors. Inside, the SUV will likely feature an updated 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, similar to the Scorpio-N SUV. Under the hood, Mahindra is expected to offer the same 2.0-liter turbo petrol and 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engines to power the Thar.
It will be interesting to see how these new SUVs perform in the Indian market, as they offer a range of updates and improvements over their predecessors.
Sources:
– HT Auto Desk
– Facebook/Bhaskar Datta