If you have been keeping an eye on the Indian auto scene lately, you might have noticed that Mahindra has been unusually busy on the test tracks. A heavily camouflaged SUV from the Mahindra stable has been spotted doing road tests yet again, and this time, the changes on the test mule look more significant than before. While Mahindra has not officially said anything about this vehicle, the frequency of these sightings strongly suggests that a launch is not too far away.
So what exactly can buyers expect? Based on what has been spotted and what industry insiders are saying, here is a breakdown of the seven major changes likely coming with this new SUV.
1. Completely Redesigned Front Fascia
The front end of this test mule looks noticeably different from anything Mahindra currently sells. Even under all that camouflage tape, you can make out a new grille shape, a redesigned bumper, and updated lighting elements. Mahindra has clearly been moving toward a more premium design direction with recent models, and this new SUV seems to be following the same path.
2. New LED Lighting Signature
One thing that stands out even in spy shots is the revised lighting setup. The SUV appears to get sharper LED daytime running lamps and a completely reworked headlamp cluster. A distinctive lighting signature has become something of a must-have in today’s SUV segment, and Mahindra looks ready to deliver exactly that.
3. More Premium Cabin Experience
Nobody has seen the interior yet, but sources close to the matter suggest the cabin is getting a meaningful upgrade. Think cleaner dashboard design, better quality materials, and an overall feel that sits a step above what Mahindra’s current mid-range SUVs offer. Given how well-received the XUV700 and Scorpio-N interiors have been, buyers are going to have high expectations — and Mahindra knows it.
4. Larger Infotainment System
A bigger touchscreen is widely expected, and honestly, it would be surprising if it did not show up. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car features, and over-the-air software updates are all on the wishlist. These are no longer “nice to have” features — they are baseline expectations for anyone shopping in this segment today.
5. Enhanced Safety Package
Mahindra has made safety a genuine priority in recent years, and the new SUV is expected to carry that forward. Multiple airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, and traction control are likely to be standard across variants. Higher trims could also bring ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking — features that would put it on par with newer rivals.
6. Updated Powertrain Options
Engine details have not been confirmed, but expect both petrol and diesel options with a focus on better fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions. Manual and automatic gearbox options are likely to be offered, giving buyers flexibility depending on their preference. Mahindra may also share powertrains with existing models to keep costs in check.
7. Improved Ride and Handling
The amount of testing this SUV has been put through across different road conditions tells you that Mahindra is serious about getting the dynamics right. Better suspension tuning, improved highway stability, and reduced cabin noise are all expected outcomes. For a segment that attracts a lot of long-distance family travel buyers, these improvements could make a real difference.
Who Will It Take On?
Depending on where Mahindra prices this SUV, it is likely to step into the ring against established names like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. That is a tough crowd, but if the changes listed above make it to production, Mahindra has a genuine shot at making some noise.
When Can We Expect It?
There is no confirmed launch date yet, but the pace of testing suggests the development phase is nearing its end. Official teasers and feature reveals could start surfacing in the coming months, with a potential debut either later this year or early next year. For now, patience is the only option — but all signs point to it being worth the wait.
Rajababu Kushwaha is the Founder and Editor of AutoCrest. He covers the latest car news, reviews, comparisons, EV updates, and buying guides for Indian car buyers.