Mahindra have said that they will launch two new compact SUVs next year, and the Mahindra S101 (codename) seen testing in these images will be one of them. The second SUV, we think, would be the U301 (next generation Bolero).
Caught on test near Mahindra's R&D Center in Chennai, the S101 is likely to be the smallest product from the Indian UV specialist. It is based on an all-new monocoque platform, and dimensionally, it will adhere to the sub-4 meter length. The exterior design of the compact car is expected to be inspired by the larger XUV500 in areas such as the grille and headlights.
Inside, the car is expected with a 3+3 seating arrangement elicited by the dashboard-mounted gearlever.
The S101 is expected to launch next year with a petrol and a diesel engine. The petrol motor is reported to be a newly developed 1.2-liter unit, and Mahindra is jointly developing this engine with group company Ssangyong. For the diesel S101, Mahindra could choose to make use of the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (mCR100) seen in the Quanto.
With cars like the S101 and U301, Mahindra hopes to have the compact SUV segment covered.
Mahindra S101 - What to expect
[Can't see the video above? Head to Youtube]
Competitors: VW Taigun, Ford EcoSport
Expected Price: INR 5-7 lakhs, ex-Showroom
[Spy images from Motorbash]
