Wadhera says two Mahindra launches before Diwali, and one after
In February, Mahindra had announced that it would launch four new models in FY2019. Three of the new models will arrive by the end CY2018.
At the Mahindra U321’s name announcement, Rajan Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra, revealed that the company would launch two new models before Diwali and one after. He didn't call out names, but IAB understands the order is Mahindra Marazzo, Mahindra Rexton, and Mahindra S201.
The Mahindra Marazzo is the company’s first monocoque MPV. Underpinned by an all-new platform, this model will debut a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The newly developed engine will likely deliver around 121 hp and 300 Nm of torque and come paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Mahindra will offer the family van in 7- and 8-seat versions.
The Mahindra Rexton will follow soon after as the most expensive Mahindra vehicle till date. Essentially the G4 SsangYong Rexton with a nose job, this model will also offer seats for seven. It will employ a 2.2-litre diesel engine good for 181 PS and 420 Nm. A 7-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system are expected as standard in this frame SUV. The flagship model’s prices could start at around INR 24 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Mahindra S201 will compete with the sub-4 metre SUVs like the Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon and Maruti Vitara Brezza. While the Mahindra TUV300 is a traditionally designed pro-utilitarian offering, the Mahindra S201 will lure customers seeking a curvier design and premium features such as projector headlamps, electric sunroof, leather seats, seven airbags and more. Engine options will include a new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol and the Marazzo's 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel.
Also Read: Mahindra Marazzo likely to be exported to every market where the XUV500 is sold
Maruti Suzuki introduced NEXA outlets in 2015 to provide customers with high purchasing power a premium buying and servicing experience. Learning from Maruti, Mahindra is working on revamping its PV dealerships with a better ambience and increased digitalisation. Mahindra, as per reports, will call its new outlets “WOS” (World of SUVs). WOS will have a special ‘Prime Zone’ for the Mahindra Marazzo and Mahindra Rexton.