Mahindra has unveiled the new Vision SXT concept at its annual Independence Day event this year. It is a derivative of the Vision T concept, which was also unveiled alongside it, and both concepts preview future models in the Thar family. A production version of the Vision SXT will materialise sometime after 2027.
- Mahindra Vision SXT boasts of a pickup truck body style
- Is underpinned by the brand’s new NU_IQ modular architecture
- Compatible with both ICE and EV powertrains
Mahindra Vision SXT concept exterior details
The Mahindra Vision SXT shares a lot of its design cues with the Vision T, and as such, both models are an evolution of the Thar.e concept from 2023. The standout element of the SXT is, of course, its rear pickup bed-like area. The Vision SXT will be positioned in the C-segment SUV space, but this body style is quite unconventional. It’s not a traditional pickup truck with a distinct passenger compartment and a cargo area, but incorporates both together in a single, rather well-proportioned package.
The Vision SXT boasts of a short, exposed rear deck with roll bars and a slim, rectangular panel for the tailgate, allowing for a see-through area. It looks quite cool with the strapped spare tyres, which, of course, are accessories. The rest of the design is quite similar to the Vision T, with its sculpted and flared wheel arches, heavy-duty, off-road-spec bumpers and clean surfacing on the door panels and the bonnet.
There are some differences in the face, though. The grille has a slightly different finish, with a glass casing for the lower part; the headlamps also get the same treatment. This one also has a more off-road-spec wheel design, wrapped in all-terrain tyres. Small details like the exposed door hinges, C-pillar-mounted rear door handles, bonnet latches, and hook points for roof carriers are common to both concepts.
Overall, the Vision SXT has a very outdoorsy and lifestyle appeal. It has been designed by Mahindra’s design studios in Mumbai and the UK, and crafted here at the Mahindra Research Valley.
Mahindra Vision SXT concept interior details
The Vision SXT shares its dashboard with the Vision T, so it’s a minimalistic design and built with what looks like hard-wearing materials. The highlights are a free-standing digital instrument cluster, a large portrait-oriented central touchscreen infotainment system, and some physical switchgear on the centre console. There’s also a new three-spoke steering wheel, and it gets a panoramic sunroof as well. As with most modern Mahindras, software is a clear focus here, and with Mahindra’s new NU_UX interface, it could have best-in-class connectivity and tech features. Like the Vision T, this too will be a five-seat model.
Mahindra Vision SXT concept technical details
Mahindra hasn’t revealed full technical details yet, but the Vision SXT is underpinned by the brand’s all-new NU_IQ architecture. It’s a modular monocoque platform that’s been designed for SUVs measuring between 3990mm and 4320mm. The Vision SXT, just like the Vision T, will be on the larger side of this spectrum. This platform allows for a wheelbase of 2665mm, which, the brand claims, gives it class-best interior space. For reference, a Hyundai Creta – the benchmark of the C-segment SUV space – has a wheelbase of 2610mm. Despite the long wheelbase, Mahindra claims this will still have a class-best turning radius of 10.3 metres.
The Mahindra Vision SXT will be compatible with all types of powertrains – petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric. Mahindra hasn’t revealed exactly which engines will be offered with this model, but it said the EV version will have an LPF battery, likely shared with the BE 6 and XEV 9e. The platform is capable of supporting both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.
The SXT is clearly an off-road-focused SUV, and in that regard, the platform allows for an approach angle of up to 28 degrees, a departure angle of up to 34.9 degrees and a breakover angle of up to 28.2 degrees. Mahindra says this is significantly better than class standards. It will also have class-best ground clearance and a segment-first penta-link rear suspension. The brand will also be aiming for a 5-star safety rating from global testing agencies such as GNCAP and Euro NCAP.
Alongside the Vision SXT and Vision T, Mahindra also unveiled the Vision S and Vision X concept SUVs at the same event. In fact, all four models are underpinned by the same NU_IQ platform, each previewing upcoming models from the Thar, Scorpio and XUV families. The production versions of these concepts, however, are still some time away and are expected to come from 2027 onwards. Do note, a lot could still be toned down from what was showcased today. What’s interesting is that Mahindra is even looking to go global with these four concepts.
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