Mahindra has launched the facelift of its KUV100 hatchback, the KUV100 NXT priced at Rs 4.39 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The top-spec K8 diesel is priced at Rs 7.33 lakh. The facelift model is more muscular in appearance, gets a total of 10 trims, with changes to the interior and a few mechanical updates. The launch prices are introductory for the first three months and may increase after.
While the facelift model is mechanically similar to the older one with the same 84hp, 1.2-litre petrol and 78hp, 1.2-litre diesel engines mated to a single five-speed manual gearbox, major changes can be found in the engine damping to improve refinement levels. The suspension now gets a longer travel rate at 150mm for the front and 200mm for the rear, and that's likely to improve ride quality.
To cater to growing demand for automatics, Mahindra will launch automated manual transmissions for both the petrol and diesel engines in six months time.
The exteriors now feature restyled front and rear bumpers that have increased the KUV's length by 25mm (now 3,700mm), faux skid plates on the front and the back, a new front grille with design elements seen on latest Mahindra models, black cladding at the bottom and new inserts for the headlamps and clear lens for the tail-lamps. It will also come with integrated roof rails and a tailgate spoiler. Higher-spec variants come with 15-inch diamond cut alloy wheels.
The KUV100 NXT is offered as a five- or six-seater, like the pre-facelift model that was also in the same configurations. The five-seater version will only be available on a made-to-order basis. With two interior shades on offer, lower-spec trims are finished in grey while higher versions get an all-black interior.
In terms of equipment, this is the first time that Mahindra’s rugged hatchback gets a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system loaded with GPS navigation with maps from MapmyIndia on the top-spec K8 variant. In addition, the KUV100 NXT gets remote lock/unlock for the tailgate, power folding wing mirrors, rear parking sensors, a new multi-info display giving readouts for gearshift alert, drive modes and fuel economy. The K8 will come with automatic climate control for the AC. Additional features include steering-mounted controls, driver’s seat height adjust, a cooled glovebox and mood lighting.
Safety kit includes dual front airbags, corner braking control and ABS with EBD.
Additionally, the KUV100 NXT has improved approach and departure angle as well (20deg and 29deg, respectively) which, along with additional ground clearance is expected to tackle rough roads better.
Competing with a range of crossover-hatchbacks such as the Hyundai i20 Active, Maruti Ignis, Toyota Etios Cross and Honda’s WR-V, at this price point, the Mahindra KUV100 NXT is priced quite well.
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