The Indian SUV market is a diverse landscape, catering to a wide range of preferences. While the winds of change are pushing towards electric mobility, there remains a significant demand for diesel SUVs, especially in regions like Delhi NCR where the 10-year rule doesn’t apply. Recognizing this demand, Mahindra, the iconic Indian automaker, is gearing up to launch several new diesel SUVs in the coming months, ready to take on established players like Tata and Hyundai.
Mahindra’s Diesel Trio: Thar 5-Door, XUV300 Facelift, and More
While official confirmation is still awaited, reliable sources suggest Mahindra is preparing to launch three to four new diesel SUVs in the near future. This exciting lineup is expected to include:
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Mahindra Thar 5-Door: This highly anticipated SUV has been spotted undergoing extensive testing on Indian roads. With the arrival of the Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-Door, the wait for the Thar’s five-door version has only intensified. Mahindra is likely to launch this much-awaited model by the end of 2024.
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Mahindra XUV300 Facelift: Fans of the popular XUV300 have been eagerly waiting for a refresh, and their wait might be nearing its end. The facelift is expected to sport a new 1.5-liter petrol engine, possibly borrowing design cues and interior elements from the recently launched Mahindra Suv 400 TV.
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Other Potential Contenders: Reports also indicate the possibility of additional diesel offerings from Mahindra, including potentially a new iteration of the Bolero and a diesel variant of the upcoming XUV900.
Mahindra Thar 5-Door: A Closer Look
The Mahindra Thar 5-Door has captured the imagination of off-road enthusiasts nationwide. Here’s what we can expect from this upcoming beast:
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Enhanced Practicality: The addition of two doors will significantly improve passenger comfort and access, making the Thar a more family-friendly option while retaining its legendary off-road prowess.
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Feature-Packed Interior: The cabin is likely to receive an upgrade, featuring a larger touchscreen infotainment system compared to the standard Thar. A dual-tone interior theme, a sunroof, hill descent control, and a digital instrument cluster are also potential additions.
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Powerful Engine Options: While exact details remain under wraps, the Thar 5-Door is expected to inherit the proven engine options from the Scorpio, including a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol and a 2.2-liter diesel engine.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift: Refining a Popular Choice
The XUV300 facelift aims to maintain the momentum of its successful predecessor while offering a touch of freshness. Here are some anticipated updates:
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Modernized Powertrain: The facelift could adopt the new 1.5-liter petrol engine, potentially offering improved performance and fuel efficiency.
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Design Inspiration from Suv 400 TV: The design and interior might draw inspiration from the recently launched Suv 400 TV, potentially featuring dual-tone color options, a larger 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and a 360-degree camera for enhanced convenience and safety.
The Diesel Debate: Why the Demand Persists
Despite the growing focus on electric vehicles, diesel SUVs continue to hold a place in the Indian market, particularly in regions like Delhi NCR where the 10-year rule for scrapping old vehicles doesn’t apply. Here are some factors contributing to this:
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Mileage and Torque: Diesel engines are renowned for their superior fuel efficiency and ability to generate high torque, making them ideal for long journeys and tackling demanding terrains.
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Lower Running Costs: When compared to petrol counterparts, especially in the long run, diesel SUVs can offer lower running costs, especially in markets with a significant price difference between diesel and petrol.
Mahindra’s diesel SUVs are poised to make a strong statement in the market. With the Thar 5-Door’s off-road prowess and the XUV300 facelift’s expected feature upgrades, Mahindra is set to challenge established players and cater to the diverse needs of Indian SUV buyers.
