Mahindra and Mahindra (M and M) at 2012 Auto Expo, unveiled a sports utility vehicle recently acquired SsangYong line up. The SsanYong series included Rexton, Korando E, Actyon Sports and XIV-1 Concept. Other wide range of models included their present generation models & two wheelers.
The Rexton is likely to hit showrooms in the next six months. The more modern (and better-looking) Korando C will be here at some point next year. It was Ssangyong’s first official outing in India and going by the response they got, Mahindra has nothing to worry about their South Korean acquisition’s performance here.
It is undecided whether it will be sold as a Mahindra or a Ssangyong – we prefer it sold as a Mahindra because unless it has a price tag which cannot be ignored, it will not have a completely positive brand ambassador for the Korean marque. The Rexton will be powered by a 2.7-litre, five-cylinder turbocharged common-rail diesel mill that generates over 180PS, so it certainly won’t be slow.
The XIV-1 concept is a B-segment compact SUV. The concept when in production would offer the economies of a small car. The concept derives its name from exciting User Interface Vehicle and offers seats which rotate 360 degrees thus providing more space utilization.
Mr. Anand Mahindra has nor denied or accepted the market speculation of Mahindra taking over SAAB, though he mentions that acquisitions is the current flavour Mahindra is believing in. He also states that Mahindra would concentrate on bringing more value for money products which has already made its mark with the recently launched XUV500. The Mahindra Mini Xylo would also be carrying the value for money tag and will have a mid 2012 launch.
Also see – Mahindra’s 2012 Auto Expo plans revealed
