Mahindra will launch its all-new MPV in the first quarter of 2018. Known by its codename U321, the seven-seat MPV has been repeatedly spotted testing across the country over the past year.

The U321 will be a body-on-frame MPV like the Xylo but will be very different in appearance. Spy photos of the U321 show the MPV to have a relatively low-set cabin (relative to the Xylo, that is) which should benefit ingress-egress. The MPV’s cab forward silhouette and large glasshouse also point to an airy cabin. While details of the U321’s styling have so far not been seen in their entirety, our computer-generated rendering based on multiple spy pictures should give you an idea what the MPV will look like. Expect the new Mahindra to have a sloping bonnet, large headlights with projectors and Mahindra’s toothy seven-slat grille, up front. LED daytime-running lights and 16-inch wheels are details that have also been seen on test cars. At the sides, it’s the flared wheel arches and strong belt line will link this MPV to other Mahindras. High set tail-lamps and a top-hinged tailgate that extends low down to the bumper (should ease loading luggage) are other elements on the MPV.

The MPV will offer three rows of seating, with seven and eight-seat options. It is possible Mahindra could also offer captain chairs for the second row. Spied prototypes have been spotted with all-black interiors with a generous use of gloss finish plastics and chrome-look detailing. The MPV’s dashboard appears conventional in design but will feature a large touchscreen, perhaps the same unit from the XUV500 that gets Android Auto and multiple apps. Spy pictures confirm automatic climate control will be part of the equipment on higher-spec versions, and there should be air-con vents for all three rows, as well.  

The MPV will also be the first Mahindra model to use a new 1.6-litre diesel engine developed with SsangYong. This mFalcon engine will find its way to future Mahindras as well; and on the MPV, it will make a healthy 130hp.

Mahindra is expected to price its new MPV in the Rs 10-15 lakh band. The pricing should put the new model in a sweet spot in the MPV segment, right between the Maruti Ertiga on the lower end and the more premium Toyota Innova Crysta on the higher end of the price ladder.