Spied - IAB reader snaps Mahindra's EcoSport-challenging S101 in Punjab

Indian Autos Blog reader, Mr. Nisheet Jain, spotted Mahindra's upcoming compact SUV, which is codenamed 'S101', run on the highways of Chandigarh recently. Mr. Jain messaged that there were a fleet of test mules accompanied by a 2014 Scorpio prototype.

The S101 is based on an all-new monocoque chassis developed by Mahindra, with certain inputs reported to have come from Ssangyong. The petrol engine powering the S101 will be the first of a new family of small gasoline engines, again developed jointly by both companies.

Spyshots have revealed that the Mahindra S101 will measure below 4 meters in length, thereby classifying it as a small car according to the Indian legislation. Hence, we expect the new petrol engine to displace 1,200 cc or lower, while the diesel engine should displace 1,500 cc or lower.

The S101's platform is the first among three all-new platforms being developed by Mahindra and Ssangyong for its next generation vehicles. In a recent interview, the company's executive director, Dr. Pawan Goenka, confirmed that the launch of the S101 could take place as early as next year. When launched, the compact crossover will take on the likes of the Ford EcoSport and the VW Taigun, a segment that would soon have a participant from every major auto company.