Mahindra TUV300-based Stinger convertible SUV coming to the Auto Expo 2018: What it’ll look like

At the 2018 Indian Auto Expo, Mahindra will show a brand new convertible SUV concept based on the TUV300 compact SUV. Called the Stinger, the convertible SUV will measure under 4 meters in length and will use a ladder frame chassis, just like the TUV300. While Mahindra has put out a teaser of the Stinger, here’s our full-fledged render that’ll give you an idea of what the convertible SUV will look like.

As the render indicates, the Stinger will be heavily inspired by the TUV300. From the headlamps to the Jeep Compass-like front grille, the Mahindra Stinger is likely to be a TUV300 minus the hard top. For now, there’s no word yet about Mahindra putting the Stinger concept into production. If and when that happens, this sub-4 meter vehicle seems to be an ideal replacement to the Mahindra Thar.

The concept is likely to pack in the 1.5 liter, twin scroll turbocharger equipped 3 cylinder diesel engine also used by the TUV300. Peak power and torque outputs of this engine stand at 98.6 Bhp and 240 Nm, and both 5 speed manual and AMT options are available.

Here are some reasons why we think that the Stinger could actually be the preview of the new Thar,

• For one, the Thar’s platform is not future-ready, in that it won’t meet future crash test norms, and casts a cloud on the off-roader’s future in the Indian market. Sooner than later, Mahindra will have to replace the Thar with something more modern.
• On the other hand, the TUV300 platform has been engineered to meet the BNVSAP (Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program) safety norms. The platform supports airbags and ABS, and also uses pedestrian friendly bumpers.
• The TUV300 platform is based on a ladder chassis, which gives Mahindra the flexibility of experimenting with multiple top-hats. What this means is, it can put the Thar’s body (or something similar to it) on the TUV300’s chassis.
• Mahindra is engineering the 1.5 liter mFalcon turbo diesel engine to meet future emission test norms. Also, the TUV300 platform can support a 4X4 layout. (The older Quanto, which used the same platform used to be available with the 2.2 liter Mhawk diesel engine and a 4X4 transfer case in international markets).

Meanwhile, even Autocar has put together a render showing what the Stinger concept could look like.

Then we have the official teaser that Mahindra put out.