The compact SUV market is now filled with an array of options for consumers to choose from with Hyundai, Maruti, Ford, Renault and Nissan already having their entries in the segment, while others are lined up to fill in theirs. Recently, we also came to know that Mahindra would be coming out with their entry in the compact SUV segment as well with TUV300.
The competition is obviously very exciting with the likes of Hyundai Creta, Maruti S-Cross, Ford EcoSport, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano already in the mix, it is going to be interesting to see how the new Mahindra TUV300 matches up to them. But the compact SUV that has really performed well and garnered a lot of appreciation and sales numbers in the last year or so is Ford EcoSport. Therefore, for Mahindra TUV300, Ford EcoSport is the vehicle to beat.
Outside Appearance
Ford EcoSport is probably the best compact SUV in India if we consider it as an overall package with the vehicle scoring high in terms of appearance, performance and mileage. The exterior is truly well defined with high rise bonnet and a grille that is wide dimensionally and has a hexagonal shape. The headlights are quite robust as well with the overall appearance of the car looking quite sporty and elegant. From the point of utility as well, Ford EcoSport provides favourable dimensions including a high ground clearance of 200mm which is probably the highest in the segment. With a tall muscular stance, Ford EcoSport is able to tackle potholes and unevenness of the Indian roads with ease. Overall, the size of the car is under 4 metres which mean it is smaller than the likes of Hyundai Creta and Renault Duster.
For Mahindra TUV300, we have not seen any official images although, we have come across the teaser sketch which in all honesty, does look quite appealing and tempting. The disclosed sketches have a boxy look for the SUV which is considered as an ideal shape for such cars while there are hints of Bolero as well with Mahindra TUV300 featuring squared-off cues. At the same time, we also see a lot of sportiness and edgy feel to the car with short front and rear overhangs. The ground clearance here too is 200mm whereas the tyres for the SUV are much more thick and the windows are large.
Interior
This is one place where Mahindra might find it difficult to challenge Ford EcoSport with the latter of the two having a heavy set of features to offer. On the other hand, Mahindra has never been the brand that was known for providing top class interior and therefore, keeping their track record in mind, the interiors is one section where Ford EcoSport could continue to hold the edge.
However, the drawback that Ford EcoSport does have, is the lack of touchscreen infotainment system which we see in the likes of Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster and Maruti S-Cross. Therefore, Mahindra TUV300 can take and create value by introducing a touchscreen infotainment system which can be the same one that XUV500 or Scorpio has.
Under the hood
Ford EcoSport has received a great response when it comes to handling with its forward wheel system working very well with the given suspension system and the chassis. There are three engine variants to select from including the 1.5 litre TDCi diesel engine, 1 litre Ecoboost and the 1.5 litre Ti-VCT petrol DCT automatic engine.
Mahindra TUV300 might get the hydroformed chassis of Scorpio which in case if used, will definitely give a lot of sturdiness to the SUV. It is also speculated that the compact SUV would be rear wheel driven and derive power from the 1.5-litre mHawk 80 motor which is the same engine used by Quanto.
Price
Mahindra cars have always been very affordable or rather lower than what other vehicles in the segment offer so it would be only fair to assume that the company would follow the same suit for Mahindra TUV300. And even though Mahindra TUV300 diesel base variant is quite well priced, Mahindra TUV300 would definitely be priced below it.