Indian automaker Mahindra is all set to reveal the name for its upcoming sub-4-metre SUV codenamed S201 on the 1st of December. The Mahindra S201 (XUV300) will be the automaker’s newest SUV contender and with its sub-4-metre length will take on the likes of the Maruti Vitara Brezza, Ford Ecosport and Tata Nexon when it is launched in India early next year.
While there are reports that the S201 could bear the XUV300 name, there is also a chance that the company may ditch its old-school naming scheme once again just like it did in the case of its last two vehicles – the Marrazo MPV and Alturas G4 SUV.
However, if Mahindra decides to go ahead with the XUV300 name it will give the new SUV instant brand recognition thanks to the success and popularity of the XUV500 in India. Another reason to keep the name is the fact that both SUVs sport a monocoque chassis.
Mahindra is currently hard at work putting the S201 (XUV300) through its paces as it looks to get the compact SUV ready for Indian customers by the time it launches in early 2019. The latest spy images of the S201 show off a camouflaged version of the SUV which is based on the Ssangyong Tivoli sold abroad.
The front end looks quite similar to the Tivoli and Mahindra is only expected to add its own badge and grille to distinguish it from the regular Tivoli. However, this test mule of the S201 features three raised structures on the bonnet, though these could just be a few sensors bolted to the test mule.
At the sides, the only major distinguishing features seen are the snazzy 10-spoke alloy wheels and the straight roofline. The rear end of the Mahindra S201 features a sharply raked rear windscreen and LED taillamps that are connected by the distinctive character line on the boot, though that could just be some chrome bulging out from under the camo.
The new S201 (XUV300) from Mahindra is expected to come packed to the gills with features and will get a dual-zone climate control system, cruise control, sunroof and a larger than average touchscreen unit for the infotainment system along with projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The S201 will also see Mahindra debut its new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine under its hood. The diesel option for the Mahindra S201 will be the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine from the Marazzo which rated at 121 Bhp. This will make the S201 the most powerful SUV in its segment. The engines are expected to be paired with 5-speed manual and AMT gearboxes.
Also Read: 6 times the Toyota Fortuner proved that it's UNSTOPPABLE [Video]