Mahindra and Ford Motor Company have recently called-off their proposed joint venture, which was formed to develop new vehicles, technology and platforms. Under the agreement, Mahindra will help Ford to improve sales in India and other developing nations. Mahindra has officially announced that its plans for India will remain intact despite cancellation of the agreement.
Mahindra will launch an all-new mid-sized SUV, which will be positioned below the XUV500. This urban-centric SUV will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the upcoming VW Taigun and the Skoda Kushaq. Codenamed S204, the new SUV is rumoured to be called the Mahindra XUV400.
It was reported that the new Mahindra XUV400 mid-sized SUV will be based on the Ford’s VX-722 platform. Due to recent development, it is expected that the new model could be based on the Mahindra’s X100 platform. This platform currently underpins the XUV300 and is compatible to accommodate a larger body. It is basically the modified version of the SsangYong’s X100 platform, which underpins the Tivoli and the Tivoli XLV.
It is expected that the Mahindra XUV400/S204 mid-sized SUV will measure around 4.4 meters in length. The Tivoli XLV is basically the long-wheelbase version of the standard model, offering more rear space and boot space. Similarly, the XUV400 could be based on the updated platform and could be offered with 5- and 7-seat options.
It will be powered by the brand’s new G15 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which was unveiled at the 2020 Auto Expo. This direct-injection engine churns out 163bhp of power and 280Nm of torque. The Mahindra XUV400 is also likely to receive a diesel engine, which could be the 1.5-litre turbocharged unit. While powering the Marazzo, this turbo-diesel unit offers 120bhp of power and 300Nm of torque. Both manual and automatic versions are likely to be on offer.
The new mid-sized SUV is expected to be designed by Mahindra in-house design team in collaboration with Pininfarina, which is the Italian design house owned by Mahindra & Mahindra. The exact launch timeline for the new Mahindra XUV400 is yet to be revealed. We believe that the launch could be delayed by 1-2 years, and a possible launch in late 2022 or early 2023 can’t be ignored.
