Mahindra U301 compact SUV spotted testing again - Spied

25/02/2015 - 16:04 | ,   | Aravind Jayachandran

Expected to launch in late-2015.

Mahindra is currently developing a series of new vehicles, one of them being the next generation Bolero - codenamed Mahindra U301. A couple of spyshots of the prototype has surfaced, courtesy of Flywheel, and IAB reader Mr. T. Jesudas, who spied the vehicle in Chennai.

2016 Mahindra U301 spied rear
The Mahindra U301 could be based on a shortened version of the new Scorpio's hydroformed ladder-frame chassis.

The Mahindra U301 could be based on a shortened version of the new Scorpio's hydroformed ladder-frame chassis, which could improve the driving characteristics over the current Bolero. The U301 will carry-over the boxy, raked front end of the current Bolero, but with new headlamps and grille design.

Mahindra U301 mule spied testing in Chennai by IAB reader Mr. Jesudas
Another test mule of the U301 was spotted recently with an AMT unit.

Inside, the cabin and dashboard of the new Bolero is expected to be a step up. As revealed in previous spyshots, the interior will feature faux aluminium and chrome inserts, a new instrument cluster with two large, circular, chrome-ringed dials like the XUV500, a new three-spoke steering wheel with steering-mounted audio controls for higher-end variants.

2016 Mahindra U301 spied front three quarter
The U301 will carry-over the boxy, raked front end of the current Bolero, but with new headlamps and grille design.

Under the hood, the Mahindra U301 could come with a diesel-only engine lineup. Reports speculate that it will feature a 1.5-litre diesel engine, although details on the power figures or fuel mileage are not quoted. As spotted before, it may come with an option of an automated manual transmission (AMT), or a basic manual gearbox, and will be available in 2WD guise only.

Also Read: 2015 Mahindra Thar (facelift) caught testing again – Spied

Expected the U301 to launch later this year.

Competitors: Tata Movus, Chevrolet Tavera, Tata Sumo
Expected Price: INR 6-8 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch Date: Late-2015 (Tentative)

[Source: Flywheel]

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