Homegrown automakers, Mahindra and Tata Motors are working on a wide range of new SUVs for the domestic market. In this article, we talk about the 7-seater SUVs to be launched in our market by Mahindra & Mahindra, and Tata Motors.
Tata Gravitas
Tata Motors is gearing up for the launch of the much-awaited Gravitas 7-seater SUV, which was unveiled at the 2020 Auto Expo. The new SUV is basically the 7-seat version of the Tata Harrier. It will directly rival the MG Hector Plus. It was speculated to be launched before Diwali this year; however, new media reports claim that the launch could be further delayed.
The Gravitas SUV will be the brand’s second product to be based on the OMEGA ARC platform. It will be powered by a tried & tested 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that also powers the Harrier. This engine is capable of producing 170bhp of power and 350Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
Mahindra Scorpio
Mahindra is readying the next-gen Scorpio, which is scheduled to be launched in the mid-2021. The new-gen Mahindra Scorpio will be powered by a BS6-compliant 2.2-litre turbocharged dieel engine, which is likely to produce around 160bhp of power and over 350Nm of torque. It will receive a newly developed 6-speed manual gearbox along with a 4WD system as optional. The new Scorpio will receive a new 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged petrol engine that produces 190bhp and 380Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
Mahindra XUV500
Not just new Scorpio, Mahindra will also launch the next-gen XUV500 SUV. The new model will be based on the newly developed monocoque front-wheel-drive platform, which will also underpin the upcoming Ford C-SUV. Scheduled to be launched in early 2021, the new XUV500 will be offered in two engine options – a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel.
BS6 Tata Hexa
Tata Motors is readying the BS6-compliant versions of the Hexa SUV, which has recently been caught on testing. The company had showcased the Hexa Safari edition at the 2020 Auto Expo. It has bolder exterior look as compared to the standard model, while the cabin is finished in white along with special Safari badging. The SUV will be powered by a BS6-compliant 2.2L turbocharged diesel engine producing 156PS and 400Nm of torque. The BS6 Hexa will be offered with 3 transmission options – 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. The BS6 Hexa Safari edition will be offered with a 4×4 drivetrain.
Mahindra XUV400
The homegrown UV maker is readying an all-new mid-sized SUV, which is rumoured to be called the XUV400. If reports are to be believed, the XUV400 will be offered in both 5 and 7-seat layouts. The 5-seater model will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the Tata Harrier, while the 7-seater SUV will take on the upcoming Tata Gravitas and the Hyundai Alcazar (7-Seater Creta). This model is likely to receive new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol and 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engines.
