Four New Mahindra SUVs Debuting on August 15: Price, Powertrain, Competition & More

Mahindra is all set for yet another Independence Day celebration, as it readies to reveal four new Vision SUV concepts, Vision T, Vision S, Vision SXT, and Vision X, under its much-awaited Freedom NU platform. The new monocoque-based platform, New Flexible Architecture (NFA), is designed to support petrol, diesel, hybrid, and purely electric powertrains, which will serve as the base for all upcoming Mahindra cars. 

What's Under the Skin: Powertrain & Battery Options

Though Mahindra has not provided specific details yet, the NFA platform is anticipated to facilitate:

1. Turbocharged petrol and diesel engines with hybrid-assist variants.
2. Plug-in hybrid systems with increased pure-electric range for city driving.
3. Fully battery-electric versions with several pack sizes, probably between 60 kWh and 90 kWh, to provide ranges of 450 km to 650 km based on body type.
4. Several drivetrain configurations, front-wheel drive for small SUVs, and all-wheel drive for premium and off-road-focused variants.
5. Fast-charging is also an option, with DC charging rates set to be over 150 kW for flagship EVs.

The Four Concepts: First Impressions

Vision T: Thar DNA, Electric Future

A development of the Thar.e concept, Vision T features a sharp bonnet, flared wheel arches, and bonnet locks - now more than quietly indicating its off-road heritage. Priced to be available in hybrid and pure-electric forms, it may threaten lifestyle 4x4s while delivering cleaner power.

Vision S: Scorpio Heritage With Contemporary Tech

Taking cues from the Scorpio's muscular posture, the Vision S boasts bonnet scoops, a roofline that's standing tall, and a wide, aggressive frontage. An electric version would be able to take on the Toyota Fortuner and Jeep Meridian, particularly when combined with sophisticated ADAS and luxury-grade interiors.

Vision SXT: SUV-Pickup Crossover

With styling hints from the Global Pik-Up, the Vision SXT combines SUV utility with pickup capability. Potentially attracting adventure and lifestyle customers, it should also sell in export markets where double-cab pickups are in demand.

Vision X: Compact SUV for Urban Life

Shaking off Mahindra's tough heritage, Vision X is sleek, boxy, and urban-friendly - perhaps a hybrid or EV positioned to challenge Tata's Punch EV and future Maruti compact EVs.

Competitors' Cutting-Edge Platforms: The Benchmark Opponent

Freedom NU's platform will have to contend with peer-tested architectures from around the world:

1. Toyota TNGA & TNGA-F: Supports both hybrid sedans and ladder-frame SUVs such as the Land Cruiser.
2. Tata's acti.ev: Significantly redesigned ALFA architecture tuned for EVs such as the Curvv EV and Harrier EV.
3. Skoda-Volkswagen MQB A0-IN: Highly localised platform for both ICE and mild-hybrid technology.

Expected Features and Technology

The Concepts are expected to receive connected digital cockpits, Level-2+ ADAS, multi-terrain drive modes, and premium interior trim. With the scalability of the platform, next-generation plug-in hybrids may provide convenient fast AC charging from home and high-speed DC charging away from home. The monocoque body also promises enhanced ride quality, driving dynamics, and NVH squelching over Mahindra's conventional ladder-frame SUVs.

Market Impact and Pricing

Mahindra's existing SUV lineup relies extensively on ladder-frame constructs such as the Bolero, Scorpio, and Thar. Freedom NU is a shift towards global-suited, city-friendly SUVs that offer Mahindra's tough image without giving up on electrification. Tentative pricing might range from ₹12 lakh to ₹50 lakh (ex-showroom), varying by body type, size, and powertrain option.

August 15 - More Than Just a Launch Date

August 15 has become a date for Mahindra's biggest unveilings, be it the Born Electric BE range in 2022 or the Thar.e EV concept in 2023. The company's platform-first approach this year is its badge of honour in engineering and its commitment to future-proofing its SUV portfolio over the coming decade.

Also present at the event is the new Bolero Neo, which may be the first production vehicle to borrow some engineering characteristics from the Freedom NU platform. You can read all about it here (link).