The Mahindra Xylo Compact MPV, popularly known as the mini-Xylo has been on test for eternity now, with the launch scheduled by October 2012. But what is the reason for the delay. Sources have revealed to us that Pawan Goenka (President – Automotive and Farm Equipment Sectors at Mahindra) is not at all happy with the performance of the 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder diesel engine, which is loosely based on the Scorpio’s unit. Thus the company has been testing two different diesel engines on the mini Mahindra Xylo. One being the aforementioned Scorpio derived engine, while the other is the 1.5-litre K9K DCi unit, which also powers the Mahindra Verito. This has led to the delay in the launch of the Xylo compact MPV.
Mahindra might not have the license to use the Verito’s powertrain on other cars but can procure it from Renault. The advantage for Mahindra is obvious as the DCi diesel engine is one of the best compact diesel motor around, while Renault benefits from the license fees which Mahindra will pay them for use of this engine in the mini-Xylo. The 1461 cc, 4-cylinder diesel engine produces 65 BHP of peak power at 4000 RPM and 160 Nm of peak torque at 2000 RPM. Turbo lag is almost lacking and the K9K motor pulls effortlessly at low speeds even in second gear. The USP of this engine is the stupendous economy it offers and can easily offer close to 20 km/l in the mini-Xylo.
