Mahindra launches Quanto compact MPV at Rs. 5.82 lakh!

Mahindra today launched the Quanto compact MPV that’s based on the Xylo. Prices start at Rs. 5.82 lakh going up to Rs. 7.36 lakh. The vehicle is available in four variants – C2,C4,C6 and C8. It is essentially a five-seater with two additional jump seats (5+2 seater). Mahindra is giving it a lifestyle spin, positioning it as a compact SUV that is a weekend lifestyle vehicle.

All variants of the Quanto are diesel, with a 100 bhp, 1.5-litre diesel engine.

Prices

Mahindra Quanto C2: Rs. 5.82 lakh
Mahindra Quanto C4: Rs. 6.35 lakh
Mahindra Quanto C6: Rs. 6.86 lakh
Mahindra Quanto C8: Rs. 7.36 lakh

(all prices ex-showroom, Thane)

Looks and design

The Mahindra Quanto is based on the Xylo (with a shortened wheelbase and chassis), and hence the front looks the same. But it is under 4 meters in length. In fact, the front of the Quanto is a blend of the older Xylo and the newer one. The grille used is that of the older Xylo, with the top half painted body color to match the bonnet, and look like the newer Xylo grille. In profile, the Quanto looks quite tall, riding on 15-inch wheels with 205/65 R15 tyres. It towers above all other vehicles in its price segment.

The rear of the Quanto is most interesting, with the spare wheel on the rear door adding some character to the vehicle. The tail-lamps are placed high up on the D-pillars, and the quarter glasses are partially openable. The reverse lamps are embedded in the bumper, and there’s a discreet step for passengers who want to sit in the boot. The similarity to the Premier Rio is uncanny.

The Quanto is available in six color options: Rocky beige, Toreador red, Diamond white, Mist silver, Java brown and Fiery black. Also read: Why the Quanto is a good alternative to premium hatchbacks

Comfort and features

The C6 and C8 variants of the Mahindra Quanto are loaded with features, including safety features such as ABS and two airbags. The C8 also has reverse parking sensors. The car is spacious and has flip out tray tables for the middle row. It can seat five comfortably, while the two small unfold-able third row seats can be used to ferry seven people in desperate situations. The C6 and C8 variants also get height adjustable driver’s seat.

Other features include power windows, manual HVAC, power steering with tilt adjustment, central locking, keyless entry, power adjustable mirrors and an integrated music system with USB and Aux-in. The front seats get foldable armrests which are a nice touch, and the rear seat can flip-fold completely to increase luggage room.

Engine

The Mahindra Quanto is powered by a 1493 cc, three-cylinder diesel engine (mCR100) that puts out 100 bhp of power at 3750 rpm and 240 Nm of torque at 1600-2800 rpm. This is the first time Mahindra is using a twin-turbo system in a vehicle, which eliminates turbo lag, as well as improves power. This, Mahindra claims, is the world’s smallest twin-turbo engine. There are no twin-turbo cars in India under Rs. 25 lakh!

The engine is mated to a newly designed five speed manual transmission. This additional power and torque with the Quanto allow it to compensate for its slightly heavier kerb weight. Later versions of the Quanto may also get a 4×4 system according to Mahindra. Related:  Mahindra Quanto 5-city prices

Fuel economy is an impressive 17.21 kmpl (ARAI-certified), which is slightly lower than premium hatchbacks in its category such as the Maruti Swift diesel or Hyundai i20 diesel that all have over 20 kmpl claimed mileage. It’s also lower than the Renault Duster, a compact SUV, that’s price positioned at least Rs. 2 lakh above the Mahindra Quanto and gives over 19 kmpl.

Quanto vs competitors

The Mahindra Quanto is being positioned as a compact SUV (although it’s an MPV), and hence its main rival would be the Renault Duster right now. Of course, it is also an alternative to premium hatchbacks and entry-level sedans given its pricing. Compared to the Renault Duster, the Quanto doesn’t quite cut it in terms of looks – the Duster is definitely better looking. But when it comes to features and practicality, both vehicles are at a par. The Quanto wins in terms of pricing, being cheaper than the Duster, by Rs. 1.5- Rs. 2 lakh variant for variant. In terms of engine power too, the Quanto is slightly better than the base Duster, but doesn’t match up to the Duster 110PS variants. For its price, it is good value for money. Also see: Quanto video walkaround!

The other vehicle the Quanto directly competes with is the Maruti Ertiga. It is slightly more spacious than the Ertiga in the first two rows, but loses out a bit on the third row (since the Quanto has side-facing jump seats). In terms of power on paper, the Quanto has more, but the Ertiga is a lighter vehicle and hence the specs are more or less comparable. The Quanto has a ladder frame chassis while the Ertiga is a monocoque – which means handling on the Ertiga will be better than the Quanto. Also read: Mahindra Quanto unofficial first drive

What we think

At a starting price of Rs. 5.82 lakh, the Mahindra Quanto is about Rs. 1.5 lakh cheaper than the base Renault Duster (which is petrol). It is also cheaper than the Maruti Ertiga that starts at Rs. 5.89 lakh for the base petrol, while the diesel Ertiga starts at Rs. 7.30 lakh. This vehicle will appeal to urban buyers who want a vehicle with imposing road presence, with the ability to look over traffic. It also has enough space to carry a large family comfortably. And most of all, being diesel, it will definitely create a stir in the segment. The Quanto is even cheaper than the Swift Dzire diesel that starts at 5.99 lakh. Check out this story – Quanto vs. Ertiga!

We think the Quanto will begin to see quite an order rush this festive season and will lure buyers away from premium hatchbacks as well as entry level sedans. The pricing is extremely attractive!

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