Spied - IAB reader snags the boxy Mahindra U301 (new Bolero) testing in Chennai

Is based on a new hydroformed ladder-frame chassis.

Indian Autos Blog reader, Mr. Anand Sayanam, spotted the Mahindra U301 (codename for the next generation Bolero) in Chennai this week. Like the smaller S101, the U301 would have its market launch in 2015, with sources telling Indian Autos Blog that it would be ready in the last quarter of next year.

Until now, it has been reported that the U301 will be based on a new hydroformed ladder-frame chassis. However, at the launch of the new Scoprio which also uses such a setup, Mahindra said that the Scorpio's ladder-frame chassis was modular, and that leads us to believe that the U301 will have some connections to it.

Where the Scorpio has its characteristic design identity, the U301 would look utilitarian with a boxy design and near-straight lines for the body panels and window panes.

Also see: New Mahindra Scorpio's accessories revealed

The U301 will be powered by Mahindra's new engine family, which is again modular in nature. This means that power for the SUV could come from 1.5- or 1.6-liter petrol and diesel engines.

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