Mahindra TUV500 (TUV300 XL) spied testing for the first time

Could be the modern alternative to the Mahindra Bolero.

An extended Mahindra TUV300 was spied testing with a full camouflage wrap in the outskirts of Chennai by Autocar India reader Apoorv Garg. It was rumoured to be in the offing for a while, but this is the first time an actual test mule has been spied testing.

The Mahindra TUV500 (name unconfirmed) will feature the same boxy styling and design elements as the TUV300, with the only difference being an extended rear overhang. The fixed window of the third row is also covered up which, according to Autocar India, hides the front facing third row seats, instead of jump seats found in its smaller sibling - the TUV300.

The TUV300 XL is likely to be powered by a dialed-up mHawk 100 diesel engine from the TUV300, which produces 100 hp and 240 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT could be the transmission options offered.

The Mahindra U108 will rival SUVs bigger than the sub-4m TUV300, such as the Hyundai Creta and Renault Duster. As it is tipped to be a true 7 seater, the only ideal rival will be the Honda BR-V. Mahindra will bank on the TUV500's bold styling and utilitarian platform to market it to the fleet buyer.

[Source: Autocar India]