Soon after launching the BE 6 Batman Edition, Mahindra used its Independence Day event to showcase the future of its SUV portfolio with the debut of the NU_IQ platform and four new Vision SUV concepts – Vision T, Vision X, Vision S and Vision SXT. This marks a shift from Mahindra’s traditional ladder-frame DNA to a modern, global-ready monocoque architecture.
NU_IQ Platform: Built for the Future
- Modular Design: Can spawn SUVs measuring between 3,990mm and 4,320mm, covering both compact and mid-size SUV categories.
- Multi-fuel Capable: Supports petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric powertrains. The EVs will use battery packs from Mahindra’s BE and XEV line-up.
- All-Wheel Drive for All: AWD systems have been engineered for both ICE and EV models.
- Flat Floor Advantage: Ensures better passenger comfort and space utilization.
- Advanced Suspension & Steering: Features a 5-link rear suspension with active dampers and a variable-ratio steering rack for improved ride and handling.
- Tech & UX: Comes with a new NU_UX domain architecture, with a clean and minimal digital interface that blends software and physical controls.
- Global Safety Ready: Mahindra is confident NU_IQ SUVs will achieve 5-star ratings across BNCAP, Euro NCAP, and ANCAP crash tests.
Rajesh Jejurikar, Mahindra’s Executive Director & CEO (Auto & Farm), confirmed that while NU_IQ can support various “top hats”, Mahindra will only build SUVs, sticking to its core identity.
The Four Vision Concepts
Vision S – The Compact Scorpio
- Sub-4m SUV, likely to slot into the Scorpio family.
- Bold design with inverted L-shaped lights, 19-inch wheels, roof ladder, and side-mounted jerry can.
- Inside: dual-screen layout, new steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, and wireless connectivity.
- Built on a 2,665mm wheelbase, which is longer than rivals like the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet.
- Likely to offer 1.2-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre diesel options, along with hybrid/EV powertrains.
Vision X – Sporty Compact SUV for the XUV Family
- Sits under the XUV sub-brand, could preview the next compact XUV.
- Crossover-like silhouette with coupe-inspired rear, aero alloys, flush door handles, and strong BE/XEV-inspired design cues.
- Inside: curved dual-display setup, two-spoke steering, and modern dashboard with three-tone finish.
- Under 4m SUV, same 2,665mm wheelbase as Vision S.
- Will support ICE, hybrid, and EV options, directly targeting B-segment SUV rivals.
Vision T – Next-Gen Thar
- A rugged SUV in the Thar family, evolving from the 2023 Thar.e concept.
- Familiar off-road cues: split grille with slats, bonnet latches, flared arches, spare wheel on tailgate, exposed door hinges.
- Features a panoramic sunroof, tow hooks, roof carrier points, and all-terrain tyres.
- Interior: portrait-oriented touchscreen, digital cluster, and minimal hard-wearing dashboard.
- Likely to focus on electric-first, with an LFP battery shared with BE 6 and XEV 9e, but will also support ICE/hybrid.
- Off-road hardware promises best-in-class approach, departure, and breakover angles, with segment-first penta-link rear suspension.
Vision SXT – Lifestyle SUV-Pickup
- A unique SUV-pickup crossover, also under the Thar family.
- Compact rear deck with roll bars, strapped spare tyres, and exposed hinges.
- Combines rugged styling with a lifestyle appeal, designed for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Interior similar to Vision T: minimalistic cabin, large portrait touchscreen, digital cluster, panoramic sunroof.
- Same 2,665mm wheelbase, with multi-powertrain compatibility (ICE + EV).
- Will share the off-road focus of Vision T, with class-leading ground clearance and AWD support.
Mahindra’s Roadmap
- All four concepts will enter production, with styling “80% close to production models,” said Pratap Bose, Mahindra’s Chief Design Officer.
- Each concept will strengthen Mahindra’s five SUV families – Thar, Bolero, Scorpio, XUV, and BE.
- The first production model (likely Vision S) will debut in 2027.
- Mahindra is also preparing these SUVs for global markets, targeting disruption in the mainstream SUV space with premium features, safety, and technology.
