Mahindra TUV500 MPV likely to replace Xylo in India however the spied vehicle could be the taxi version of Innova
Mahindra has been mulling over introducing a new MPV to compete against the Toyota Innova for a long time. The success of the first generation Innova and its latest replacement the Crysta would have acted as an instigator for the largest Indian manufacturer to go with such product. But, the heavily camouflaged spied test mule with the extended roofline could be that vehicle? We still have no answers to that question but it has glimpses to be that utilitarian.
Rumours running around the internet suggest that Mahindra has applied trademark for an utility vehicle known as TUV500 and the possibilities of the spotted test mule being that same product cannot be neglected. It was captured testing alongside the Toyota Innova Crysta which is the benchmark MPV in the Indian auto industry. The spy images come courtesy of our reader Sathish.
Since showcased at the Auto Expo 2016, the Innova Crysta’s market launch had long been carved and it lived up to the customers’ expectations every inch. The thoroughly disguised test mule does indicate a few design cues taken from the XUV500 like the curvy bonnet, sloping windshield and the vertically slated grille assembly. However, the rear fascia appears to have been heavily overhauled and looks distinct.
Behind the C-pillar is where space for more occupants will be provisioned and it could come with extra amount of bootspace than the XUV500. The power source could be taken from the XUV500 as well with the 2.2-litre diesel unit developing 140 bhp and 330 Nm of torque. With the front and all-wheel drive systems are expected, the six-speed manual and six-speed automatic gearboxes are more likely to do transmission duties.
The recently unveiled 1.99 m-Hawk diesel making 140 bhp and 320 Nm could be the other diesel option as well to circumvent the ban in places like Delhi-NCR and Kerala. Technological wise, Mahindra could seek inputs from SsangYong and its reported new platform could play a key role in the success of this nine-seater MPV.
Mahindra TUV500 Images
