The Mahindra Roxor, a utility vehicle based on the Mahindra Thar, is retailed in US markets as a side-by-side or UV and classified as an off-highway vehicle in North America. Now, the company has started production of an automatic version of the Roxor which is slated to enter markets in North America very soon.
It may be remembered, that earlier this year, Fiat Chrysler had filed a petition with the US International Trade Commission against Mahindra and Mahindra claiming that the Roxor violated the Jeep brand signature design elements. The automaker complained that the Roxor was almost identical in design to the Jeep. However the US Trade Commission ruled in favour of Mahindra and Mahindra and sales commenced.
Mahindra Automotive North America, a subsidiary of Mahindra and Mahindra, have been producing around 30 units of the Mahindra Roxor per day from its Michigan plant in Auburn Hills.
Little is revealed about the Mahindra Roxor AT except that it will receive a torque converter automatic gearbox. The Roxor boasts of a flat five slat grille in the front, an all steel body and steel framework. It sits on 16″ wheels and boasts of classic old school looks.
Mahindra Roxor is a two seater SUV and offered only in US markets. It comes in two versions, the base version is priced at US$15,499 (Rs 10.08 lakhs) and the LE Limited Edition, in four colour options of carbon black, classic white, fire orange and tahoe blue.
The Mahindra Roxor is also offered with customization options that include exterior and interior color options with buyers able to select from over 900 paint shades. It is also offered with safari seats, back seats, adjustable ride heights and hard tops along with winches and side enclosures as part of this personalization option.
The Roxor is powered by a 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder diesel engine offering 64 hp power and 195 Nm torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 5 speed manual gearbox and standard 4WD gear. Being introduced with an automatic transmission will definitely enhance its demand in US markets. The Roxor AT will be priced little higher than the manual model.
In India, Mahindra is getting ready to launch the new generation of Thar. 2020 Mahindra Thar has already been spied on test. It will come with new 2 liter diesel engine, which will be mated to manual as well as automatic gearbox. Debut of the new Thar will most likely take place at the 2020 Auto Expo, in February next year.
