Mahindra S101 compact SUV teased, could be called KUV100

Mahindra has released first pictures of the new compact SUV that will be introduced into the market very soon. The new SUV, codenamed S101 will be priced as low as Rs 4 lakh for the entry level variant and could be named the KUV100. The new Mahindra S101/KUV100 will slot right into the middle of the mass market hatchback segment where the likes of the Maruti Wagon R dominate and will eventually go right up against the Maruti Suzuki Ignis which will most probably be launched later next year.

From the look of it the new Mahindra S101/KUV100 is quite well proportioned and different from Mahindra’s latest compact SUV, the TUV300. The new Mahindra S101/KUV100 will feature Ford Ecosport like styling and in fact does look heavily inspired by the same. The Mahindra S101/KUV100 will feature daytime running lights in the top of the line version and will also feature a sporty characteristic that is more in tune with a soft roader as compared to an off-road ready SUV.

On the interior front, expect great styling is the TUV300 is anything to go by. The Mahindra S101/KUV100 will also get a good level of infotainment options and will come well equipped. The Mahindra S101/KUV100 will be a 5-seater and will be a sub 4-meter compact SUV to avail of the excise benefits.

The Mahindra S101/KUV100 will also be the car that sees the return of the petrol engine to Mahindra products in India. The petrol will be a 1.2-litre motor that will make about 80PS of peak power whereas the diesel will be a 1.5-litre mill that will make about 75PS of peak power. Both engines will get both a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT gearbox. Expect prices to start at Rs 4 lakh for the base model and go to about Rs 7 lakh for the top of the line automatic diesel variant.

Mahindra KUV100 S101 Compact SUV Price - Rs 4-6 lakh for petrol versions

Mahindra KUV100 S101 Compact SUV Price - Rs 4.5-7 lakh for diesel versions

Mahindra KUV100 S101 Compact SUV estimated launch time - Early 2016 (January 2016)