Mahindra & Mahindra is readying up its next-generation of SUVs that will hit the Indian and global markets starting from this year. In fact, the company had readied a number of launches for the second half of 2020, but the unprecedented Coronavirus pandemic has forced the automaker to push its plans for launch a number of highly-awaited models to 2021. Unravelling its future product strategy at Mahindra’s quarterly results for FY2020-21, the company announced that it has two new products in the pipeline – W601 and Z101. These are the next-generation Mahindra XUV500 and the Mahindra Scorpio respectively. In addition, the company has also revealed that the new-generation Mahindra Thar will arrive by October this year, while a Hyundai Creta rivalling compact SUV is also underdeveloped and will be launched as a Ford product under the Mahindra-Ford joint venture. Here’s all the lowdown on the upcoming models.
Mahindra W601 (2021 Mahindra XUV500)
The second generation Mahindra XUV500 has been internally codenamed W601 and will see a new monocoque platform the company. While not a lot has been disclosed about the model, we do know that the design language was previewed with the Mahindra Funster concept at the 2020 Auto Expo. Going by the Funster concept, the new-generation XUV500 will be a major departure from the current model with a revolutionary design and better driving dynamics. It is likely to be high on tech with a digital instrument console, large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that will offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The SUV is also expected to come with wireless charging, electrically adjustable front seats, vehicle telematics, and even connected tech along the lines of the MG Hector and the Kia Seltos. The SUV will also draw power from the newly-developed 2.0-litre Stallion T-GDi turbo petrol engine that was also unveiled at the expo and will go on to power a number of Mahindra and Ford vehicles in the future. The motor is expected to produce around 190PS at 5000RPM and 380Nm of peak torque between 1750-4000RPM. There will also be the updated 2.2-litre mHawk turbo diesel engine from the current line-up that is likely to continue. The motor currently develops 155PS at 3750RPM and 360Nm at 1750-2700RPM. The engine could see a bump in output for the new model.
Ford W605 (All-New Compact SUV)
The next Mahindra W601 will also spawn a compact SUV for Ford India as part of the joint venture between the companies that them share synergies and resources. The Ford W605 is the internal codename for the upcoming that will be positioned above the EcoSport in the current line-up and will borrow the new monocoque chassis from W601. The new SUV is also expected to be laden with features to take on the rival in the highly competitive segment but is likely to be sold as a five-seater urban offering, as opposed to the new XUV500 that will be positioned as a seven-seater all-rounder. Much like the W601, expect the Ford C-SUV to be powered by the 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor, while the diesel engine could be 2.2-litre mHawk from Mahindra unless Ford decides to plonk the 1.5-litre from the EcoSport instead. There’s also the 2.0-litre TDCi from the Endeavour in the company’s stable. Given Ford’s involvement in the project, expect a well-tuned chassis in the making, at least that’s our hope.
Mahindra Z101
The Mahindra Scorpio is one of the strongest sellers for the manufacturer and the next-generation model codenamed Z101 will see the model take a giant leap in both design, technology and dynamics. The upcoming SUV has been spotted testing on several occasions and is expected to grow larger in proportions with a more dynamic and upmarket design language. It is expected to continue using a ladder-on-frame chassis underneath but a heavily updated version of the same. Compared to the current Scorpio, the new model will sport more cabin space, better legroom, and a larger tailgate. The model could also benefit from a bigger touchscreen system, head-up display and connected car tech, keeping up with the times. Powering the new Scorpio will be the same 2.2-litre diesel, while the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine could also be on offer with 160PS and 280Nm of peak torque.
New Generation Mahindra Thar
The new-generation Mahindra Thar is an eagerly awaited launch from the manufacturer and will be a much better and bigger package than the current model. The off-roader will get an evolutionary look and will get a soft-top and hardtop models. It’s also expected to get more premium this time with LED DRLs, LED taillights, touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, rear parking sensors and more. Previously released spy shots have revealed that the new Thar will get front-facing seats at the rear, instead of the side benches. It will also boast of better quality plastics in the cabin and a more neatly finished look than the current model. The new-generation Mahindra Thar is expected to draw power from the 2.0-litre Stallion and 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine options. The powertrains are likely to be paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, replacing a 5-speed unit. It will continue to get Four-Wheel-Drive with 2H, 4H, 4L options and a differential lock.
