Q.Mahindra S101 spied. EDIT: KUV100 announced

[QUOTE=JijoMalayil;n8489]Update: KUV100 has crossed 37,000 bookings from across India. Yet an another great outing for Mahindra. [/QUOTE] Woah! Seriously?! That is really amazing. The KUV is a very capable little vehicle with a great price positioning. But I always felt that small car customers might now step into Mahindra showrooms. Looks like I was wrong!

Update: KUV100 has crossed 37,000 bookings from across India. Yet an another great outing for Mahindra.

The KUV100 has crossed 21,000 bookings since it was launched last month. Mahindra, in a press release, claims that the KUV100 has received 1.75 lakh enquiries and 2.7 million visits on its microsite. Mahindra says most people who have bought the car are first time car buyers and that almost 50% of all KUV100s sold are powered by the petrol mFalcon G80 engine which was developed in-house. Quite a feat Mahindra!

You can now book a Mahindra KUV100 online through [URL="http://www.flipkart.com/search?q=KUV+100&as=off&as-show=on&otracker=start"]Flipkart[/URL] now!

The ride quality and, since they're brand new engines- the reliability are the only question marks. Otherwise, I think Mahindra has literally set the cat among the hatch-lings. Would be interesting to see how the sales are 6-8 months down the line.

This launch by Mahindra has managed to generate some great interest among prospective car buyers. There is A LOT on offer in the price segment 4-7 lakhs. Here's a list of the competing models within this range. Listed below are the USP's of the competition, followed by a poll. 1. KUV100 K8 - 6 seater option, Great suspension, all new petrol motor, boot space 2. Grand i10 CRDI/1.2 - Low running costs, Rear A/C Vent, Keyless entry with start/stop. 3. Baleno 1.2 Alpha/1.3 Sigma - Rear legroom, Efficiency, Service/Spares 4. Dzire ZXi/ZDi - Parking Sensors, Airbags, Start/Stop button, Boot space Here's the [URL="http://www.zigwheels.com/forum/topics/general-discussion/polls-and-surveys/2975-sub-8-lakh-car-options"]Poll[/URL], I'd think the KUV100 would take it away.

So a couple of Mahindra KUV100s are on the way from Pune to Delhi, being driven by automotive journalists. [USER="56"]Shantonil[/USER] (Wandering Monk) is behind the wheel of a petrol KUV100 (the one on the right in the photo below). So far so good. They started from Pune on Saturday 16th and should be in Delhi on Monday, 18th, taking a leisurely drive. More updates soon. [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2955[/ATTACH]

[QUOTE=kaiserketkar;n2938] Does the middle seat in the front row come with a proper 3 point seat belt or is it just a lap belt? ... I am also curious as to why Mahindra chose not to compare the KUV100 with the Ecosport. The KUV100 would have won that comparo hands down both on features as well as price. Would've made it seem a lot more value for money! [/QUOTE] The middle seat in the six seater has only a lap belt, not a three-point. This could be an issue, especially if a kid is sitting in the middle. Right in front is the gear lever, which could cause injuries, even with lap belt in place, as there's no restriction of forward movement of the shoulder. I'm hoping Mahindra has a already done some crash test analysis of this. Vivek Nayyar did say that the company has used soft materials for the dashboard, but that gear shift doesn't look soft to me. That aside, have you seen the incredible innovations with storage? Underfloor storage at the rear, under seat storage in front etc. I feel short changed with my Scorpio now, a whole million bucks extra and hardly any storage cubbyholes. I think Mahindra knows that buyers looking at compact SUVs like the EcoSport, will easily see the value for money proposition in the KUV100 - it's going after larger volumes & segments - the premium hatchback buyer and compact sedan buyer!

[QUOTE=NikilSJ;n2893]"The middle seat in the front confirms to all rules regarding seats, but it will not get an airbag. It is not for everyday use. You also get an option of a five-seater car too," says Pawan Goenka[/QUOTE] Does the middle seat in the front row come with a proper 3 point seat belt or is it just a lap belt? [QUOTE=NikilSJ;n2898]Someone's been naughty at Mahindra. There's a line on their KUV100 ad which says Get Lucky, Get Dirty, Get A Shower! Woah![/QUOTE] I quite liked the ad. For once Mahindra has a decent product ad! [QUOTE=Ronny;n2933]Bang On!!!!:D Its been targeted to steal Maruti & Hyundai buyers. Aggressive looks, aggressive pricing. Definitely has potential to be a Micro SUV Segment topper. [/QUOTE] I was just thinking the same thing... this is the first time that Mahindra has a product aimed squarely at market leaders Maruti & Hyundai, that too in their own turf! It will definitely make them sit up and take notice. I'm sure it has the potential to sell good numbers. I am also curious as to why Mahindra chose not to compare the KUV100 with the Ecosport. The KUV100 would have won that comparo hands down both on features as well as price. Would've made it seem a lot more value for money!

Bang On!!!!:D Its been targeted to steal Maruti & Hyundai buyers. Aggressive looks, aggressive pricing. Definitely has potential to be a Micro SUV Segment topper.

Absolute bang for the buck.I hope it will be a runaway hit. I was getting bored of seeing Swift's and Elite i20's all around. May be this will take up the rest of the roads now :P Kudos to Mahindra

Couple of shots of the brochure. [CENTER] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2907[/ATTACH] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2909[/ATTACH] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2910[/ATTACH] [/CENTER]

Team Zigwheels shot KUV100 at Mahindra's Chakan plant in Pune. Here's the link to the DETAILED Mahindra KUV100 road test and review: [url]http://www.zigwheels.com/reviews-advice/reviews/mahindra-kuv100-review/24161/[/url] [CENTER] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2905[/ATTACH] [LEFT]Few more shots from the KUV100 micro-site. [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2911[/ATTACH] [B]Puddle lamps on all four doors.[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2912[/ATTACH] [B]KUV100's rear-end resembles Renault Kwid.[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2913[/ATTACH] [/LEFT] [/CENTER]

Heres another picture of Mr. Goenka posing with the KUV100 [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2903[/ATTACH]

The KUV100 has just been officially unveiled with new advert featuring Varun Dhawan. Heres the first few pictures: [CENTER][ATTACH=CONFIG]n2900[/ATTACH][/CENTER] [CENTER][ATTACH=CONFIG]n2901[/ATTACH][/CENTER]

Someone's been naughty at Mahindra. There's a line on their KUV100 ad which says Get Lucky, Get Dirty, Get A Shower! Woah!

The unique marketing strategy that Mahindra adopted before the launch of the car, seemed to have worked. They have received over 50,000 inquiries for the product before the launch, which is a BIG number. Their future plans of petrol engines may include a 1.8 petrol, and may include more engines to complete the line-up.

The 1.2-litre petrol mFalcon engine shares it's block with the 1.2-litre diesel engine as well. Even Ssangyong's 1.4-litre petrol motor was derived from this engine.

Total investment for the KUV100 was a little over Rs 1200 crores. This includes developing an all-new platform and the mFalcon petrol series of engines

The KUV100 is all set to launch with the Indian Subcontinent within the next 6 months. Sri Lanks, Nepal, Bangladesh are part of first phase, and subsequent markets such as South Africa can expect it later in the year as well.

"The middle seat in the front confirms to all rules regarding seats, but it will not get an airbag. It is not for everyday use. You also get an option of a five-seater car too," says Pawan Goenka

There is an all new aluminium Petrol motor is something that Mahindra is really proud of. They have 13 patents as they developed this engine, which is being called the mFalcon. Modern tech, such as coated cylinder heads, lesser use of hoses and pipes, a variable oil pump and use of sheet metal to reduce vibration in the engine are some of the things that make this 1.2 litre motor truely modern. Mahindra is saying that it is one of the most refined engine they have produced, with the torque curve being extremely linear.

The low-end torque of the 1.2-litre mFalcon petrol motor is supposed to be better than any other 1.2 litre engine in the market right now. Can't wait to drive it.

To sum it up, KUV100 at a glance. [CENTER][ATTACH=CONFIG]n2890[/ATTACH][/CENTER]

The KUV100 also gets driving modes - Power and Eco.

"The KUV100 has really kept the competition in check. It seems like they have managed to tick all the boxes that an Indian consumer looks for, and they hope for it to the game changer by attracting large number of buyers to the brand. By extending their portfolio from large SUVs into the territory of some of the highest selling smaller cars, M&M are surely headed towards being one of the best selling brands in the country. Right from the initial launch of the Scorpio in 2002, seems like Mahindra has really had a steep learning curve. Earlier, the quality of the products were always questioned, however that has changed with implementation of modern technology and integration of lot of what the customers demand." - Pawan Goenka

Finally Indian auto-makers are putting safety first! ABS with EBD standard across all variants. Airbags optional as well! [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2885[/ATTACH]

The KUV100 meets all future crash safety norms as well! [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2883[/ATTACH]

Smart storage spaces that the KUV100 offers! [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2881[/ATTACH]

[B]Mahindra KUV100 vs Maruti Swift vs Hyundai Grand i10 vs Maruti Dzire[/B] Prices compared to competition: [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2877[/ATTACH]

Prices for the Petrol and Diesel Variant: [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2875[/ATTACH]

Mahindra KUV100 prices (ex-showroom Pune) in lakhs: (These are introductory prices) [B]PETROL[/B] [B]Mahindra KUV100 K2: Rs. 4.42 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K2+: Rs. 4.64 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K4: Rs. 4.77 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K4+: Rs. 4.99 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K6: Rs. 5.36 lakh Mahinrda KUV100 K6+: Rs. 5.58 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K8: Rs. 5.91 lakh[/B] [B]DIESEL:[/B] [B]Mahindra KUV100 K2: Rs. 5.22 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K2+: Rs. 5.44 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K4: Rs. 5.57 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K4+: Rs. 5.79 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K6: Rs. 6.21 lakh Mahinrda KUV100 K6+: Rs. 6.43 lakh Mahindra KUV100 K8: Rs. 6.76 lakh[/B]

The KUV100 seem to be ahead of the competition as well: [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2872[/ATTACH]

Here are the features on different variants of the KUV100 [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2870[/ATTACH]

The variants on offer for the KUV : [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2868[/ATTACH]

[B]Mahindra KUV100 to come in seven colours: [/B] Pearl White, Designer Grey, Fiery Orange, Aquamarine, Dazzling Silver, Midnight Black, Flamboyant Red. [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2887[/ATTACH]

[CENTER]Some unique features of the KUV100 are puddle lamps, follow-me headlamps and lead-me-to-car headlamps. It also gets led interior roof lights and mood lighting (wow). Another useful feature is the gear indicator on the instrument cluster.[ATTACH=CONFIG]n2865[/ATTACH] [/CENTER]

Here's a screengrab which compiles all that the new KUV100 has to offer [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2863[/ATTACH]

[B]Features of the KUV100: [/B] Daytime running lights. Bluetooth infotainment system Steering mounted audio controls BlueSense app to connect with the Infotainment system [B]Safety features:[/B] ABS with EBD is standard offering across all variants Dual airbags are an option across all variants including the base variant! ISOFIx mounts for child seats on the rear seats Hazard lamps activate on panic braking Fog lamps at front. Rear fog lamps. Meets current and future safety norms - 2017 norms for frontal, side and rear crash test norms.

First in class features in KUV100[ATTACH=CONFIG]n2860[/ATTACH]

The KUV100 is an official SIX seater. The front has three seats, with seat belts for all seats. The SIX seater can be easily converted to a five seater, by dropping down the arm rest. Official mileage figures: Diesel KUV100 with D75 mFalcon engine: [B]25.32 KMPL mileage! [/B] Petrol KUV100 with G80 mFalcon engine: [B]18.15 KMPL![/B] Boot space of 243 litres. Comes with micro hybrid technology.

The KUV gets a front suspension travel of 150mm and 200mm travel at the rear and a ground clearence of 170mm. So it should be a comfortable car to drive.

Here's a screen grab of the interiors. [CENTER][ATTACH=CONFIG]n2856[/ATTACH][/CENTER] So now we can confirm that the KUV100 will indeed get a dashboard mounted gear lever. The interiors get a dual tone treatment with piano black interiors.

The KUV100 will go against the Swift and Grand i10. [CENTER][ATTACH=CONFIG]n2854[/ATTACH][/CENTER] A screen grab from the webcast shows that the car will come with roof rails, wide tyres and double barrel tail lamps. However, the rear has a lot of creases which I personally don't like.

[B]KUV100 Live Updates[/B] KUV100 targets the under-7 lac utility vehicle segment. KUV100 targets the young who aspires to own an SUV but necessarily don't have the resources to own one - Pravin Shah. Mahindra's mFalcon series debuts with KUV100. This includes Mahindra's first in-house developed petrol engine. Anand Mahindra says KUV100 will be a game-changer, just like when they launched the Scorpio (which turned around Mahindra's fortunes in India). [B]Diesel KUV100 gives 25.32 KMPL mileage! [/B]This is the ARAI certified mileage! [B]Petrol KUV100 gives 18.15 KMPL![/B]

15th January, Updates from the launch webcast! Fingers crossed! Surprise us Mahindra. Check out the webcast at [URL]http://www.mahindrakuv100.com/webcast/[/URL]

More spy shots, you get a clear idea of what the interiors of the Mahindra KUV100 looks like. The in-built media system looks a little cheap. [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2794[/ATTACH] But don't miss the third seat belt for the front seat. Ladies and gentleman, we have a genuine SIX seater ;-) [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2795[/ATTACH] [I]'jugaad[/I]' is one word that comes to mind. Mahindra can officially sell it as a six-seater! (Unlike the Datsun Go). I wonder what happens to the occupant sitting in the middle when you slam the brakes, not cool!

hahahaha WOW , the Kwid might just have a larger boot when it comes to the usable space and loading convenience, unless Mahindra is giving a custom set of travel cases/bags with the KUV.

[USER="8"]I Live For Speed[/USER] Ugly is the term! Hopefully they will price it aggressively! Anything around 4 lakhs for the base petrol variant will make it an instant hit. Beware KWID! Design, features and value-for-money will still be KWID's USPs when compared to KUV100. [CENTER] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2766[/ATTACH] [/CENTER] Boot looks really cramped, definitely smaller than the Renault Kwid [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2767[/ATTACH] [B]KUV100[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2768[/ATTACH] [B]Renault Kwid[/B]

Odd? I think you're being too nice, its UGLY. Yes, all caps ugly. Mahindra has to do away with this obsession with creases, XUV was overkill when it came to the creases and now they've done the same with the KUV 100. BTW I came across some more pics of the KUV ( on Shifting-gears.com). They managed get some insanely detailed pics!!! [B]so it has DRLs![/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2753[/ATTACH] [B]Tiny rims![/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2754[/ATTACH] [B]No ORVM indicators[/B] ( BUT THERE IS A CREASE COZ MAHINDRA ( apparently it's a pumping fist (with a few fingers missing)) [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2755[/ATTACH] [B]Beat like rear door handles[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2757[/ATTACH] [B]I like the lamp ( ONLY THE LAMP, the butt is butt ugly)[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2758[/ATTACH] The interiors are okay-ish by mahindra standards + considering the price bracket [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2759[/ATTACH] [B]Do not like the look of instrumentation cluster[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2760[/ATTACH] [B]The all new Mfalcon engine[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2761[/ATTACH] [B]The front passenger side actually looks quite alright![/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2762[/ATTACH] [B]From the look of things , your legs are gonna hate you on long drives if you're in the rear seat[/B] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2763[/ATTACH] More pics here [URL="http://www.shifting-gears.com/2016/01/13/mahindra-kuv100-all-you-need-to-know-see/#prettyPhoto"]http://www.shifting-gears.com/2016/0...e/#prettyPhoto[/URL] *Apparently* Pininfarina had a hand in the design of this car, my guess is they designed that tail lamp coz you know it's one of few things that looks good on the car ( The butt in general is not pretty, but the lamp is )

Check out this video of somebody spotting KUV100 in one of Mahindra dealership. Looks odd to be honest! What do you think? KUV100 will be launched on the 15th of January 2016. [CENTER] [video=youtube;pcxfpZf6v2c]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcxfpZf6v2c&feature=youtu.be[/video] via Indianautoblog.com[/CENTER]

That's a pretty interesting comparison. Let me try and be objective about it, with the 'little' information we have about the Mahindra KUV100 - although the launch is around the corner, on January 15th. We assume Mahindra will price it between Rs. 4 lakh (Rs. 3.99 lakh for the base petrol perhaps) and Rs. 7 lakh odd for the top-end diesel. We know Mahindra is not offering an AMT on it in the beginning, as both petrol and diesel engines will come with 5-speed manual transmissions, driving the front wheels (transverse engine, front wheel drive). We also know that the 1.2 litre mFalcon series of motors are three cylinder engines - putting out 82 bhp of power / 114 Nm of torque in the petrol and 77 bhp of power / 190 Nm torque in the diesel. These are really competitive figures, and being three-pots, one can assume the fuel efficiency at least for the diesel will be in Swift territory (22-23 kmpl) and about 18-19 kmpl for the petrol. Let's see how this would stack up against each of the cars you've mentioned above, [USER="8"]I Live For Speed[/USER] : [B]Mahindra KUV100 vs Hyundai Elite i20 vs Maruti Baleno[/B] There's really no price comparison here, as they are in different segments. For the price of a mid variant Elite i20 petrol, you will likely get the top end diesel KUV100. Sure, I don't really expect the KUV100 to compare with the Elite i20 on refinement and perhaps interior quality, but it will definitely have better interior space and you can trust Mahindra to load it with a decent number of goodies. Again, comparing performance and handling is not really possible at this juncture - but given that the KUV100 sits pretty tall, it won't likely be able to beat the Hyundai Elite i20 in handling, although power/torque figures for the petrol are comparable. If a buyer is looking at value for money, the KUV100 will possibly be better. If you compare the KUV100 against the Maruti Baleno, the arguments that hold true for the Elite i20 also hold for the Baleno, except perhaps on power/torque figures - where the diesel KUV100 and Baleno are nearly even matched. [B]Mahindra KUV100 vs Maruti Swift[/B] This is where it gets interesting. The power and torque figures for the petrol and diesel KUV100 are comparable with the power and torque figures of the Maruti Swift, which just happens to be the second largest selling car in India. The advantages that the KUV100 would have include better ground clearance, higher driving position, possibly better headroom and knee room (that dash mounted gear lever also saves on space) and better luggage space too. It would probably go after buyers who were also considering the Ford EcoSport - buyers who want some SUV qualities in their vehicles. [B]Mahindra KUV100 vs Hyundai Grand i10[/B] The car that the KUV100 has firmly in its sights is the Hyundai Grand i10. The KUV has slightly better power specs to boast of in the diesel variant, while petrol figures are similar. The KUV100 will again clearly have an advantage on space and ground clearance, not to mention road presence. Plus, Mahindra is offering ABS as standard and airbags as an option on all variants - this is something Hyundai does not offer. [B]Mahindra KUV100 vs Ford EcoSport[/B] If you ask me, the Ford EcoSport is probably another vehicle that may feel some heat from the KUV100 - mainly on price, assuming Mahindra prices it between Rs. 4 lakh and 7 lakh. The Ford EcoSport too, when it was initially launched had a very attractive price tag, but it has since become more expensive. The KUV100 has a similar stance (uncanny resemblance up front as well) and will likely be a little more spacious compared to the EcoSport (going by initial spy photos). However, the EcoSport has better power / torque figures, so performance-seeking buyers will likely cough up more for the EcoSport. But buyers looking for space and practicality at a value-for-money price tag (read family buyers, first-time buyers) will probably go for the KUV100. [B]Mahindra KUV100 vs Renault Kwid[/B] Here it's a reverse argument compared to the comparison with the Ford EcoSport. Buyers who are absolutely on a budget - where price means everything will pick a Renault Kwid, as the top-end Kwid will likely be at the same price as the base model petrol KUV100. So buyers seeking a little more power and a little more space may stretch to the KUV100. The good part is the safety kit Mahindra is throwing in as an option - dual airbags and ABS, whereas Kwid does not have ABS and has only one airbag as an option on the top-end model. That said - we first need to test drive the KUV100 to really get a feel of it and put things in perspective (what if it is really heavy? what if it's handling is not up to the mark). But beforehand, this is how I see it stacking up against the list of cars mentioned in the previous post.

Hey [USER="6"]Roshun[/USER] so a friend of mine is looking to buy a car in the 5-7 Lac range. He asked me about the KUV 100 and you know I'm clueless on these cars :p He has an exhaustive list of cars he's considering -i20 elite, i10 grande , Swift (up coming one or the existing one depending on the price) , Baleno, Ecosport or a fully loaded Kwid ( honestly I don't think you can compare a fully loaded Kwid with it , can you?) can you please help out

[QUOTE=Roshun;n2283]Here are some photographs of the interior of the Mahindra KUV100 that have been doing the rounds of the Internet. It's interesting to see the kind of front seats that Mahindra has chosen for the KUV100. This has an extended front passenger seat, making it almost like a bench, just like the Datsun Go has. The best part, as you can see in one of the photos is that the centre portion of the seat can be flipped down to form an armrest with a storage space in it. Although, no one should sit in the centre as it is a safety hazard, don't be surprised to see kids being squeezed in there. God forbid, if the driver brakes hard that dash mounted gear lever is going to do some serious damage to whoever tries sitting in the middle. Why offer such options in the first place? [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2284[/ATTACH] (Image courtesy: Motoroids) The dash mounted gear lever looks neat. But that handbrake protruding from under the dash is a bit of an eyesore. [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2285[/ATTACH] Check out the drop-down back-rest cum arm-rest. Quite innovative. [/QUOTE] I too hate the gear lever positioning and is that a pull type Handbrake lever i see?.Overall,the feel and quality of finish seems to be really good.Mahindra is really trying hard it seems.Kudos

Here are some photographs of the interior of the Mahindra KUV100 that have been doing the rounds of the Internet. It's interesting to see the kind of front seats that Mahindra has chosen for the KUV100. This has an extended front passenger seat, making it almost like a bench, just like the Datsun Go has. The best part, as you can see in one of the photos is that the centre portion of the seat can be flipped down to form an armrest with a storage space in it. Although, no one should sit in the centre as it is a safety hazard, don't be surprised to see kids being squeezed in there. God forbid, if the driver brakes hard that dash mounted gear lever is going to do some serious damage to whoever tries sitting in the middle. Why offer such options in the first place? [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2284[/ATTACH] (Image courtesy: Motoroids) The dash mounted gear lever looks neat. But that handbrake protruding from under the dash is a bit of an eyesore. [ATTACH=CONFIG]n2285[/ATTACH] Check out the drop-down back-rest cum arm-rest. Quite innovative.

[QUOTE=kaiserketkar;n2250] Mahindra will, hopefully, put a killer price tag on this. The KUV100 has the potential to shake up the whole price bracket. One feature I feel would have made a serious impact, and which seems to be missing from this list, is a touch screen infotainment. Considering that the Kwid also has one, adding it on the K8 would've made a lot of sense. And adapting the one from the Scorpio/ XUV wouldn't have really been so much of a problem.[/QUOTE] Frankly, I really don't care much for a 'touchscreen' infotainment system. Because, when you are driving, it is much better to have a knob or button to press rather than have to take your eyes off the road to adjust something on the touch screen. But, I'm sure Mahindra would offer that as an option. Did you see the spy shots of the interiors of the KUV? Front seats are almost bench like allowing you to squeeze in one more passenger, and the gear lever is nicely integrated on the dashboard.

[QUOTE=Roshun;n2175]The variant-wise details of the Mahindra KUV100 have been revealed. K8: In addition to K6 equipment, also has: Front fog lamps, alloy wheels, puddle lamps, day-time running lamps and start-stop micro hybrid system among other features. Looks interesting, as this vehicle will undercut the Ford EcoSport and lure buyers of premium hatchbacks as well. However, the mFalcon engine range is all-new, and a lot depends on initial ownership reviews of this vehicle, as I'm sure Mahindra does not want a repeat of the myriad niggles it had with the XUV500. [/QUOTE] Mahindra will, hopefully, put a killer price tag on this. The KUV100 has the potential to shake up the whole price bracket. One feature I feel would have made a serious impact, and which seems to be missing from this list, is a touch screen infotainment. Considering that the Kwid also has one, adding it on the K8 would've made a lot of sense. And adapting the one from the Scorpio/ XUV wouldn't have really been so much of a problem.

The variant-wise details of the Mahindra KUV100 have been revealed. The official launch of the vehicle is on January 15, and is likely to come with a price tag between Rs. 4 lakh and Rs. 7 lakh, petrol and diesel models included. For full details of the Mahindra KUV100 line up, see this [B][URL="http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/news/mahindra-kuv100-variants-revealed/24058/"]LINK[/URL][/B]. The Mahindra KUV100 will come in four broad variants - K2, K4, K6 and K8 across petrol and diesel models. The good news is that ABS (antilock braking system) will be a standard safety feature on all variants. The K2, K4 and K6 variants also have K2+, K4+, and K6+ variant options, which include dual front airbags in the safety kit, while the K8 has them as standard. Good to see this safety oriented initiative by Mahindra. Across petrol and diesel, here are some of the features each of the variants will have: K2: Electronic power steering, air conditioning, tilt adjustable steering wheel, body coloured bumpers, rear spoiler K4: In addition to K2 equipment, it also has - four power windows, central locking, foldable rear seat, wheel caps, cladding on the fenders, day-night inside rear view mirror. K6: In addition to K4 equipment, it also has - Electrically adjustable outside rear-view mirrors (ORVMs), cooled glove box, height adjustable driver's seat, remote central locking, rear wiper, 2 DIN audio system with four speakers, blacked out pillars and chrome inserts K8: In addition to K6 equipment, also has: Front fog lamps, alloy wheels, puddle lamps, day-time running lamps and start-stop micro hybrid system among other features. Looks interesting, as this vehicle will undercut the Ford EcoSport and lure buyers of premium hatchbacks as well. However, the mFalcon engine range is all-new, and a lot depends on initial ownership reviews of this vehicle, as I'm sure Mahindra does not want a repeat of the myriad niggles it had with the XUV500.

[QUOTE=Roshun;n1852] SUV = Scary Utility Vehicle perhaps? The high driving position and mean looks are meant to add to road presence. And yes, the increased ground clearance is a good thing. I think, what the Ford EcoSport started out as a segment is now playing out across segments. In India, we need that extra ground clearance given the sorry state of the roads and non-standard speed breakers. Also getting in and out of such a vehicle would be much easier given the taller stance - hence a practical choice even for older buyers. I'm not sure what level of safety kit Mahindra will offer, but going by what it did with the TUV, I think mid and top-end variants will have full safety kit. And I'm sure this vehicle too would have been engineered to meet 2017 crash test norms. As for the engines, Mahindra claims they can easily meet BS5 and BS6 standards with the mFalcon range, which means these are here to stay for a while. The mEagle (earlier Xylo engine) has died. The mHawk still survives, but not in all markets (Delhi's killed it). The mHawk also has a 1.5 litre variant in the TUV300, so perhaps at a later date, the mFalcon D75 will replace the mHawk in 1.5 litre guise. [/QUOTE] During the announcement Mahindra has mentioned that the KUV100 would have ABS as standard. Also, driver and passenger airbags are available as an optional kit with every variant starting from the base. They are going to follow the same for all future launches.

[QUOTE=Arjun;n1851] I agree that the car segmentation has started becoming entirely based on appearances . However, we should also understand that most of the SUV buyers do not need an SUV in the true sense. I think only a fraction of the SUV buyers actually use their car to its full potential. These days, SUVs are bought purely for their looks and the higher driving position. I believe these vehicles also have a better water wading capabilities, which turned many wannabe SUVs to be quite useful during Chennai floods. For an enthusiast , these cars being called SUV would be a joke, but for a layman, if it looks like an SUV, it is an SUV.[/QUOTE] SUV = Scary Utility Vehicle perhaps? The high driving position and mean looks are meant to add to road presence. And yes, the increased ground clearance is a good thing. I think, what the Ford EcoSport started out as a segment is now playing out across segments. In India, we need that extra ground clearance given the sorry state of the roads and non-standard speed breakers. Also getting in and out of such a vehicle would be much easier given the taller stance - hence a practical choice even for older buyers. I'm not sure what level of safety kit Mahindra will offer, but going by what it did with the TUV, I think mid and top-end variants will have full safety kit. And I'm sure this vehicle too would have been engineered to meet 2017 crash test norms. As for the engines, Mahindra claims they can easily meet BS5 and BS6 standards with the mFalcon range, which means these are here to stay for a while. The mEagle (earlier Xylo engine) has died. The mHawk still survives, but not in all markets (Delhi's killed it). The mHawk also has a 1.5 litre variant in the TUV300, so perhaps at a later date, the mFalcon D75 will replace the mHawk in 1.5 litre guise.

[QUOTE=I Live For Speed;n1848]Honestly this gap filling approach doesn't offer much utility. They are turning car segmentation criterion from Utility based to appearances based. How is this even close to the 'SUV' title in the true sense, can this thing do anymore offroading than say an i20 or a Swift.[/QUOTE] I agree that the car segmentation has started becoming entirely based on appearances . However, we should also understand that most of the SUV buyers do not need an SUV in the true sense. I think only a fraction of the SUV buyers actually use their car to its full potential. These days, SUVs are bought purely for their looks and the higher driving position. I believe these vehicles also have a better water wading capabilities, which turned many wannabe SUVs to be quite useful during Chennai floods. For an enthusiast , these cars being called SUV would be a joke, but for a layman, if it looks like an SUV, it is an SUV.

I was worried that it would look too much like a hatchback, but I like what the designers have done in terms of appearance. It does look like SUV-ish. It looks like a baby XUV and that's a good thing. The only thing that I didn't quite like are the puny tyres [mostly to keep costs in check]. They could've atleast offered larger tyres in the top variant? If the TUV is anything to go by, I'm sure M&M must've worked on the interiors extensively. Expect good quality interiors and gizmos galore. Although a micro SUV, I hope interior space isn't compromised on. And THE most sad part about the KUV, I feel is the absence of an AMT. Missed opportunity, right from the word go. An automatic fully loaded microSUV in the 7-7.5 lac price range would've been a sure-fire hit!

A little more road presence is always welcome, how the new engine series fare out in terms of refinement and drivability is what needs to be seen now.

Honestly this gap filling approach doesn't offer much utility. They are turning car segmentation criterion from Utility based to appearances based. How is this even close to the 'SUV' title in the true sense, can this thing do anymore offroading than say an i20 or a Swift.

It looks like a two door design changed to a four door as an after thought. Something like the Chevrolet Beat. The rear door handle placement is also similar to the Beat's. This vehicle is creating a new segment which is filling the gap between the Kwid and compact SUVs. The wheels look small, and I feel they should have got bigger wheels if they want it to look like an SUV. The main thing that gives this car the SUV look is the flat bonnet. There is some inspiration from the XUV500 when it comes to the headlamps and the front grill. The glass area could also have been bigger in my opinion, as I feel that the present small windows may make the cabin feel congested.

Mahindra has finally confirmed that S101 will be named KUV100, in which 'K' stands for Kool. Okay! And we have pictures for you, dosen't it look nice? [CENTER] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n1845[/ATTACH] [/CENTER] The smallest offering from Mahindra's stable gains importance as it features the new series of mFalcon engines. [LIST] [*]mFalcon series features a 1.2 liter, 3-cylinder petrol engine (a first from Mahindra), the mFalcon G80 producing about 82 bhp @ 5500rpm and 114 Nm @ 3500-3600rpm. While the diesel which is also a 1.2 liter, 3-cylinder motor called the mFalcon D75, which churns out a maximum power of 77 bhp @ 3750 and 190 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm. [*]The mFalcon series will have six engines in total, with a 1.5 diesel & petrol and a 1.6 liter petrol and diesel which is co-developed with Ssangyong. [/LIST] KUV100 will come mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, with a possibility of an AMT in the future. The KUV100 gets a monocoque chassis and stays under four-meter in length to avail excise duty benefits. The KUV100 will be available in 7 colours of Fiery Orange, Flamboyant Red, Dazzling Silver, Aquamarine, Pearl White, Designer Grey and Midnight Black. [CENTER] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n1846[/ATTACH] [/CENTER] The KUV100 will lauched on 15 January 2016. Expect prices to start at 4 lakhs for the base petrol variant and go up to about 7 lakhs for the top-end diesel. At this price point, it will give all compact hatchbacks and sedans a run for their money. Bookings are open from 19th of December 2015.

Wow, DRL's on a car that's likely to be priced between Rs. 4.5 lakh and Rs. 7 lakh. Mahindra really knows how to lay on the goodies. It would be interesting to see how it fares considering it will also come with a 1.2 litre petrol engine I hear. Engine choices - 1.2 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel. And it will apparently be called the KUV100 (K for Kompact or K for Kickass?)

[CENTER][ATTACH=CONFIG]n1792[/ATTACH] [ATTACH=CONFIG]n1793[/ATTACH][/CENTER] Some more spy shots of the S101 have emerged online. The car's DRL profile is clearly visible in these shots courtesy AnythingOnWheels.com.

[B]UPDATE: Mahindra KUV100 launched. Prices range from Rs. 4.42 lakh to Rs. 6.76 lakh[/B]. Full updates on specifications and prices on [URL="http://goo.gl/TSekLH"][B]Page 2[/B][/URL] and [B][URL="http://goo.gl/g6PiMH"]Page 3[/URL][/B] LIVE WEBCAST LINK: [video=youtube;5oVaKLpeY-o]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oVaKLpeY-o[/video] After positive response to the TUV300 compact SUV, Mahindra is now attempting to tap into the hatchback segment dominated by Maruti and Hyundai with the S101 (just a codename for now). [B]EDIT: [/B][B]The Mahindra S101 is now called the KUV100 (Kool Utility Vehicle One Double Oh).[/B] The new vehicle will be positioned below the Quanto and TUV300 and will take on the likes of Maruti’s crop of small hatchbacks, Renault’s brand-new Kwid and Hyundai’s i-family hatchbacks. [CENTER][IMG]http://www.mahindracarsindia.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/mahindra-s101-car.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Mahindra S101 rendering courtesy mahindracarsinindia.com Some websites and auto portals had earlier speculated that the KUV100 (S101) would be launched this festive season, but other reports indicate that the launch will happen only in early 2016. The S101 is likely to be priced below Rs 5 lakh. [B]EDIT:[/B] The KUV100 will be launched on January 15, 2016. [CENTER][IMG]http://indianautosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Mahindra-S101-camouflaged-prototype-rear-quarter-spied-1024x752.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Image courtesy: Indianautosblog Pre-production variants of the KUV100 (S101) have been caught testing in various cities including Chennai, Nashik and Goa. Some of the spy shots indicate that the S101 will come with raised ground clearance like the Renault’s Kwid. The S101 will be based on a monocoque platform that may underpin some of the future Mahindra models as well. [IMG]http://motorbash.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Mahindra-S101-Spy-Pics-tail-lamps-5.jpg[/IMG] Image courtesy: Motorbash.com [CENTER][IMG]http://motorbash.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Mahindra-S101-Compact-suv-spy-pics-3.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Image courtesy motobash.com The S101 will be powered by an all-new 1.2 litre three cylinder petrol engine putting out 82 bhp. Reports indicate that this engine is being co-developed with Ssangyong. The diesel powertrain is also a new 1.2 litre three cylinder diesel putting out 77 bhp. Both engines will be mated to a 5-speed manual or AMT transmission. [CENTER][IMG]http://www.gaadi.com/auto-reviews/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_2503-copy.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] The diesel variant will be powered by the mHawk80 three-cylinder engine. [B]EDIT: The engine is an all-new mFalcon 1.2 litre three cylinder. See posts below for more.[/B] Spy shots of the interiors reveal a well built and spacious interior. However, reports suggest that the S101 will have 3+3 seating configuration with bench-type seats in the front. The dashboard of the S101 comes with a piano black finish with three rotary knobs for functions like aircon, media volume controls and other functions. The S101 will also sport a touchscreen infotainment system as well. The S101 will come with dual-tone upholstery, a 3-spoke steering wheel and faux-wood inserts on the door panels. [CENTER][IMG]http://motorbash.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Mahindra-S101-S102-AMT-Gearbox-interiors.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Image courtesy: [URL="http://www.autocarindia.com"]www.autocarindia.com[/URL] [CENTER][IMG]http://motorbash.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Ssangyong-XLV-X100-Pic.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] There are rumours that the S101 will be sold internationally badged as a Ssangyong. But these are yet to confirmed by Mahindra.