Mahindra TUV300 Plus [spy shot]

Mahindra is testing various BS-VI models on the public roads right now, and one of them is the TUV300 Plus. The longer TUV300 is said to get some visual changes with the BS-VI upgrade, but with its launch having taken place just back in May 2018, a mid-cycle refresh so soon seems unlikely.

The BS-VI TUV300 Plus 7-seater is said to feature a revised front fascia. The test mule seen here isn't equipped with the production headlamp units, thus hiding any possible changes in that aspect. The radiator grille could be restyled, but that, too, is not visible in these spy shots. While at the back, it will come with wraparound tail lights and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel.

Strangely, Mahindra hasn't rolled out the safety updates mandated by the government recently to the TUV300 Plus. In April, ABS became mandatory, and from the 1st of this month, ABS, driver airbag, front seat belt reminder, rear parking sensors, speed alert system and manual override for central locking system became are required to be standard.

As per the product's latest brochure, the safety features include dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD, collapsible steering column, sided intrusion beams, digital immobiliser, seat belt reminder, auto door lock while driving, anti-theft steering lock and hazard lights on panic braking. ABS with EBD and dual-front airbags aren't standard, and there's no mention about the specifics of the seat belt reminder, whether it is for only the driver or for the driver and the first-row passenger. The BS-VI model will be safer and adhere to the latest safety norms.

The BS-VI Mahindra TUV300 Plus is expected to employ an upgraded version of the BS-IV 2.2-litre 2.2-litre mHawk that produces 120 PS at 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque at 1,800-2,800 rpm in the old model. Like in the BS-IV model, a 6-speed manual transmission should be standard. The BS-IV Mahindra TUV300 Plus is priced from INR 9.92-11.42 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Expect the BS-VI model to be launched by end-2019 and have a starting price of over INR 11 lakh (ex-showroom).