Mahindra Hilux rival in works?
Globally, the pickup segment is quite a popular segment. However, we don’t see the same amount of popularity in the Indian market. Currently, only Toyota & Isuzu have utility pickup trucks in our market. However, things are expected to change as more & more manufacturers enter the segment. Mahindra is one manufacturer which has had a presence in the pickup segment, but not anymore. Now, pickups are generally rugged and Mahindra has many rugged cars. One of them is the Thar. So, Mahindra could use the popularity and ruggedness to bring a pickup version of the Thar. In today’s article, let’s talk about this possible Mahindra Hilux rival.
How can Mahindra do it?
As we already know, Mahindra is working on a 5-door version of the Thar. Recently, the Thar 5-door was spotted testing for the first time. The 5-door Thar will be longer and have a bigger wheelbase than the 3-door Thar. Now, how can Mahindra convert it into a pickup? Mahindra can use the extra space behind the second-row door as loading bed. For ease of use, it can use the cabin layout of a three-door Thar, while the carriage can be used for goods. Mahindra can take inspiration from Jeep, which does something similar to the Jeep Gladiator, which is based on the Wrangler.
Mahindra Thar pickup – Is it actually needed?
So, what is the need for a Thar pickup? Currently, the pickup segment is quite a niche space in the Indian market. However, as the market matures, the pickup segment is expected to expand at a rapid pace. Earlier this year, Toyota launched the Hilux in India. As a product, the Hilux is known for its reliability and off-road capabilities. Similarly, Thar has also created its cult in the market. So, a Thar pickup could benefit from the popularity of the Thar nameplate. The Thar pickup will be ideal for people looking for a cargo mover with off-road capabilities.
Specifications & Pricing
The Thar pickup could get similar engine options as the Thar 5-door. So it could get the same 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine. Mahindra might give it a lower tune than the Thar 5-door to differentiate the two. Transmission options could include a manual & an automatic gearbox option. Will it get a 4×4 setup? Yes, it should get a 4×4 drivetrain to give that extra ruggedness. In terms of features, it might get fewer features compared to the Thar 5-door. As for price, Mahindra could slot it between the Thar 3-door and Thar 5-door.
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