The U301 could get a 1.5- or 1.6-liter engine.
Two prototypes of the Mahindra U301 (codename for the next gen Bolero) and the S101 were snapped testing in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, by readers of MotorVikatan. Both cars are scheduled to launch next year, and the U301 in particular is expected to boost Mahindra's sales as it will be positioned in the core SUV segment.
An image showing the dashboard of the U301 gives an early look as to what can be expected from this next gen SUV. Gone is the utilitarian look of the Bolero, and in its place we see a car-like center console with a 3-spoke steering wheel, rectangular AC vents and a large (probably touchscreen) infotainment system. At least in the aesthetics department, the U301's interior has a look comparable to newer cars like the Renault Duster.
The exterior design of the SUV is however expected to have an old school charm about it with a boxy profile and straight lines for the windows and doors. Underneath too, the U301 will stick to the basics in that it will use a ladder-frame chassis. However, it is expected to have a hydroformed chassis, much like the new Scorpio which went on sale last month.
Also read: New Mahindra Scorpio's accessory range revealed
Under the hood, the U301 will carry all-new engines which are expected to displace 1.5- to 1.6-liters. These engines could be paired to the updated 5-speed manual transmission which again saw its debut in the Scorpio.
Competitors: Tata Movus, Chevrolet Tavera
Expected Price: INR 6-8 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch Date: Late 2015 (Tentative)
[Images from MotorVikatan]
