Mahindra has dropped a teaser of their upcoming compact SUV, that’s codenamed the S101, while strong rumours indicate that it be officially called the KUV100. The sub-4 meter long pseudo crossover has already been partly revealed through spy images (Mahindra XUV100 (S101) spied during commercial ad shoot; rear and sides exposed), while the teaser, that appears to be one of the final sketches in the design process, hints at the front fascia.
The veiled sketch promises a slim front grille that flows into well-shaped headlamps. While the grille bears the signature toothy inserts, the headlamps sport relatively small, L-shaped DRL strips. The front bumper, from what can be gathered, has been rather aggressively styled, with a collection of cuts, creases and contours. A front scuff plate will also be present, and so will be three ribs on the roof.
The new interiors will get an unique layout to accommodate six occupants (3+3), which means that the front seat has a foldable middle section that…Mahindra S101 compact SUV spied; interiors revealed
Built around an all-new monocoque platform, the XUV100 will feature a front wheel drive layout and will be powered by a choice of one petrol and one diesel engine. While petrol power is expected to come from a new 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder engine co-developed by SsangYong, diesel torque is likely to come from the 1.5-cylinder diesel engine borrowed from the TUV300. Transmission options should include a 5-speed manual and an AMT.
The XUV100 will be revealed on December 18, while a launch is scheduled in the third week of January. On launch, it will compete across segments; with primary competition coming from the Ford EcoSport, while lower variants could even eat into a few B-Segment hatchback sales.
