Spied - Mahindra S101 test mule gains headlamps, new body panels

The Mahindra S101 compact SUV was captured on camera once again in Chennai, by Quartermile.in's reader Mr. Jithesh Jagadeeshan.

The S101, as readers are aware by now, is the codename of Mahindra's entry-level crossover which is drawn up to battle the Ford EcoSport. Mahindra's smallest SUV would roll out of its new manufacturing facility in Cheyyar, Tamil Nadu in the next financial year.

The test mule spotted here has gained production body parts such as headlamps, bumpers and a more complete tailgate. What appears to be a mounting bracket is stuck on to the tailgate to carry the exposed spare wheel. Some parts of the car like the rear combination lamps are yet to be seen in production form, and continue to be donor organs.

The large headlamps appear similar to the XUV500's, lined with LED daytime running lights.

The S101 would be Mahindra's second monocoque chassis vehicle, and is based on a new platform developed ground up. What is certain is that the S101 would be below 4 meters long, and harness power from a newly-developed sub-1,200 cc petrol engine (likely to be a turbocharged unit) and sub-1,500 cc diesel engine. These parameters classify it as a small car and give it the eligibility for lower taxes.

Expect the S101 on the market next year.

[Images from QuarterMile.in]