Mahindra is set to expand their reach in the entry-level hatchback segment in India. The company has an admirable portfolio of SUVs and pick-up vehicles in the Indian market as well as in the off-shore market. However the bumbling government policies and change among customer preferences are affecting the company’s sales in the country. In a recent discussion with CNBC, Mahindra has shown signs to explore their reach more in the sub 4-metre segment. Apparently, Mahindra is working on a small hatchback which will be based on the company’s recently launched hatchback, Verito Vibe.
Mahindra’s product lineup has only the Verito Vibe in the hatchback segment which is an altered version of its Verito sedan, though both cars are not competitive enough in their segment but the Vibe has provided to be an essential sub 4-metre baseline for Mahindra. The SUV leader is focusing on the development of a completely new vehicle that will aid the company to reach entry-level segment customers. The company is working with SsangYong to develop a new range of engines for its future models. A new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine is anticipated to be under development for Mahindra’s upcoming compact SUV (codenamed as S101).
The same engine can also be expected to power the upcoming hatchback in a detuned mode without a turbocharger. As far as a diesel engine is concern, Mahindra has the advantage of the Quanto’s 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine that will certainly help if the company is willing to introduce a diesel option too. Mahindra entered the sedan segment after a business venture with French automaker, Renault. The companies introduced the Mahindra-Renault Logan, however the Logan was a cascade launch but Mahindra has gained a critical platform to engineer lower segment cars. The introduction of a new small car will certainly help Mahindra to construct a base which will help them attain presence in lower segments.
Source – Overdrive
