Mahindra will be launching the new generation Scorpio and XUV500 sometime later in 2020. Ahead of that, it will launch BS6 variants of existing models.
As the BS 6 emission norms compliance deadline draws close, most OEMs are either upgrading their current vehicles or dropping the slow-moving vehicles from their portfolios. Mahindra too has been testing its BS 6 range regularly and now BS6 test mules of Alturas, Scorpio and Bolero Pick Up were spotted on test together. Spy images were shared with us by automotive enthusiast Ganesh Pagar.
Mahindra has at least 3 big-bang launches planned for 2020. This includes new gen variants of the Thar, XUV500 and Scorpio. However, looking at the timelines, it is safe to assume that only the new-gen Thar will be launched at the 2020 Auto Expo.
The second generation XUV500 and third generation Scorpio seem to be far away from the production line, and hence Mahindra will continue to sell the current vehicles with BS6 engines. However, Mahindra might showcase the concept versions of the new gen XUV500 and Scorpio at the Auto Expo. Launch of both these SUVs shall take place in 2020, though at a later date.
Talking about the spyshots, all the four vehicles look almost identical to the versions which are currently on sale. Both, the Bolero Single and Double cab-pickups rule their respective segments and Mahindra commands a healthy market share in the category. It becomes imperative for Mahindra to bring in a BS6 upgrade to their engines so that it can continue to sell these LCVs.
The next generation Scorpio has been spotted on test multiple times but the test mules didn’t look production-spec ready. Clearly, Mahindra needs more time to test and prepare the vehicle, before the production and launch can be planned. However, with the BS6 emission norms deadline kicking in from 1st April, 2020, it has most probably decided to continue to sell the existing Scorpio with a BS6 compliant motor. It is expected to do the same with the XUV500 too.
The other vehicle spotted on test was a BS6 test mule of the Alturas G4. The Alturas is basically a rebadged SsangYong Rexton, which was brought in to the country to compete with the likes of Fortuner and Endy. Sales of the Alturas have been dwindling around the 100 units mark, but Mahindra clearly is interested to continue to sell its flagship and hence is bringing in a BS 6 upgrade for the full-sized SUV.