2014 Auto Expo: Mahindra S101 compact SUV lined up for 2015 launch in India

Snapshot: On the sidelines of the 2014 Indian Auto Expo, Dr Pawan Goenka – Head of Automotive Business at Mahindra – revealed that the S101 compact SUV will be launched in India next year. The S101 compact SUV aims to be a low cost offering that aims to take the fight up to compact B-Segment hatchbacks. In line with that, a competitive price tag is expected for the new SUV offering from Mahindra. 

Notably, the S101 Compact SUV is currently under development by Mahindra with inputs from Ssangyong, the automaker’s South Korean acquisition. The SUV will feature monocoque construction to keep weight low and boost fuel efficiency. Click here to read more about the Mahindra S101.

Monocoque construction will also allow Mahindra to pare down costs. The S101 compact SUV is likely to feature both petrol and turbo diesel engine options. The decision to go petrol has to do with the Indian government’s proposed “total deregulation” of diesel fuel prices.

The deregulation is expected to make petrol cars and SUVs popular once again in India, a reason why multiple car makers in the country are working on petrol powered car models eyeing launches in the future. The S101 SUV has been spotted testing in various parts of India. Click here for spyshots of the S101.