Mahindra U301 shows off its compact dimensions - Spied

Will be offered with manual and AMT gearboxes.

Latest spyshots of the Mahindra U301 (codename for the next generation Mahindra Bolero) highlight the compact dimensions of the utility vehicle, planned for a market introduction in the second half of this year.

Reported to be based on a shorter version of the new Scorpio's hydroformed ladder-frame chassis, the U301 will be offered with newly-developed engines paired to manual and automated manual transmissions.

Spyshots have shown that the U301 to get an SX4 S-Cross like center console with a polygonal cluster accommodating the AC vents and a 2-DIN music system capable of playing all modern formats such as AUX-in, USB, Bluetooth and CD/MP3. Reports suggest that the top-end variant of the U301 will be equipped with an automatic climate control as well, in addition to safety features like ABS and dual front airbags.

Also read: Mahindra XUV500 facelift leaked in spyshots

The U301 gets a boxy and utilitarian design, much like the Bolero which has remained India's top-selling SUV. Since its launch in 2000, over 650,000 units of the Bolero have been sold. The U301 is expected to continue this sales momentum with its rugged appeal mixed with modern technologies like the AMT and new, fuel efficient engines.

Rivals: Chevrolet Tavera, Tata Sumo, Tata Movus
Expected Price: INR 6-8 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch Date: Late-2015 (unconfirmed)

[Source - Motoroids.com]