Mahindra testing long wheel base version of the TUV 300

Mahindra launched the TUV 300 in the sub 4-metre segment quite some time back. The bulky looking SUV did gain some popularity but did not become outrightly famous in the market because of its limited size. Now Mahindra is testing a long wheelbase version of the TUV, that will add a third row to the SUV. Currently, the TUV 300 comes with jump seats on the last row.

The long wheelbase TUV will be supposedly known as TUV 500. It will be based on the TUV 300 platform and the test mule has been caught testing on the outskirts of Chennai. The 7-seat version of the SUV will go against the likes of Ertiga and Mahindra’s own MPV, Xylo. The market has been losing interest in the Xylo and the new car may be offered as a premium offering to the customers of the MPV segment.

The new SUV turns out to be a bit shocking for the market. Mahindra recently launched the sub 4-metre Bolero in India and since then, the sales of the regular Bolero has been going down rapidly. The long wheelbase version of the TUV 300 will give Mahindra portfolio a more robust line-up and fill in the void left by the dwindling sales of the Xylo.

The long wheelbase version will surely add more space with roomier interiors and more leg room. The main addition will be the front-facing third-row seat that will enable the company to target Indian families. The power of the long wheelbase TUV will be taken care by the similar engine that goes into the TUV 300. We will see 1.5-litre three-cylinder diesel engine that comes in mHawk80 and mHawk100 configurations. The engines produce 84 BHP and 100 BHP respectively. There will be a 5-speed manual gearbox or AMT as an option.

There has been no official word on the new car but we may see the new model in the market by mid-2017.

Image Source: AutoCar