Mahindra XUV700 (Fortuner challenger) luxury SUV launch timeline revealed

Mahindra will launch the all-new, rebranded Ssangyong Rexton in India during Diwali 2018, according to a report on Autocar. Mahindra will not sell the Rexton under the Ssangyong nameplate in India but will instead use its own badge. Mahindra may call the new Rexton as XUV700.

The XUV700 will be the most expensive vehicle sold by the automaker in India, making it the new flagship product. The XUV700 will compete with luxury SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and the Ford Endeavour. However, it is expected to be priced much lesser. Starting prices could be pegged at Rs. 20-22 lakhs.

The new Rexton features a refreshed design on the outside that is very different from the older version’s looks. The vehicle now looks more contemporary, and is based on a ladder frame chassis. The new Rexton (XUV700) measures 4.85 meters in length, 1.92 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height, and comes with a wheelbase of 2.86 meters.

The SUV’s massive size will give it great street presence. It uses a 2.2 liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 189 Bhp and 420 Nm. It is offered with rear wheel drive and four wheel drive options. Manual and automatic gearbox options are also expected to be offered.

The interiors have premium leather seats, dashboard headliner and door trims. A touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity and various other functions such as navigation, audio-video playback and vehicle information is offered on the center console.

There are rear AC vents and arm-rests for the middle row of passengers. Safety features such as airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control, ESP and hill hold assist are offered on the SUV. Currently, the next-gen Rexton is already selling in international markets in Korea and Europe, and will soon make its debut in India with a Mahindra badge. It is likely to be shown at the 2018 Indian Auto Expo.