Mahindra & Mahindra is preparing for an exciting year with multiple SUV launches lined up. From facelifts of popular models to all-new electric variants, the company is strengthening both its ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and EV (Electric Vehicle) portfolio. Recently, several test mules have been spotted on Indian roads, giving enthusiasts a glimpse of what’s coming next.
Here are the three new Mahindra compact SUVs that have already been caught testing:
1. Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift
The iconic Mahindra Thar 3-door has been spotted on test several times, and a facelift is clearly in the works.
- Exterior Updates: The refreshed design is expected to borrow cues from the recently introduced Thar Roxx. Changes may include redesigned bumpers, a new grille, updated lighting elements, and fresh alloy wheel designs.
- Interior Enhancements: Mahindra is reportedly working on an upgraded cabin that could share features with the five-door Thar, bringing more modern equipment and comfort features.
- Engine Options: The Thar facelift is likely to retain its current engine lineup:
- 1.5L diesel
- 2.0L petrol
- 2.2L diesel
- Transmission: Buyers can expect a six-speed manual gearbox and a six-speed torque converter automatic option.
With these updates, Mahindra aims to keep the Thar competitive in India’s lifestyle SUV segment, appealing to both urban buyers and off-road enthusiasts.
2. Mahindra XUV 3XO EV
Next in line is the XUV 3XO EV, an all-electric version of the recently launched XUV 3XO. Positioned below the XUV400, it will serve as Mahindra’s entry-level electric SUV.
- Expected Range: Industry insiders suggest a driving range of around 450 km per charge, making it suitable for both daily commutes and long highway drives.
- Design Language: While the EV will share its platform and cabin layout with the ICE-powered XUV 3XO, Mahindra will likely add subtle styling changes to highlight its electric identity.
- EV Market Positioning: The XUV 3XO EV will compete directly with Tata Nexon EV, offering customers a practical and affordable entry point into Mahindra’s growing EV portfolio.
This model is crucial for Mahindra as it looks to expand its electric SUV range and attract eco-conscious buyers in India.
3. New Compact Mahindra SUV
At Mahindra’s Freedom_NU event in Mumbai, the company unveiled four concept SUVs, hinting at its future roadmap. Among them, the Vision S concept drew the most attention.
- Design Inspiration: The Vision S concept appears to borrow styling cues from the popular Scorpio N, featuring a muscular stance and bold SUV proportions.
- Test Mules Spotted: Prototypes of this compact SUV have already been seen testing on public roads, suggesting development is well underway.
- Launch Timeline: While Mahindra has stated that models based on its NU_IQ platform will only hit showrooms from 2027, this compact SUV could potentially arrive earlier if plans are accelerated.
- Engine Options: The sub-four-metre SUV is expected to share its powertrain with the XUV 3XO, likely offering both petrol and diesel options for the mass market.
If launched ahead of schedule, this new compact SUV could help Mahindra strengthen its position against rivals like Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Brezza.
Final Thoughts
Mahindra has built a reputation for offering rugged yet modern SUVs, and these upcoming models will only add to its strong lineup. The Thar facelift will keep the brand’s iconic off-roader fresh, the XUV 3XO EV will expand its EV presence, and the new compact SUV could bring an all-new contender to India’s hot-selling sub-4m SUV segment.
With competition heating up in both ICE and EV categories, Mahindra’s aggressive strategy shows it is ready to take on rivals like Tata, Hyundai, and Maruti head-on.
👉 Which upcoming Mahindra SUV are you most excited about – the Thar facelift, the XUV 3XO EV, or the all-new compact SUV? Share your thoughts in the comments!
