Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Mahindra launched its TUV300 in South Africa this week. The SUV, only available in one model, is built at Mahindra's production facility in Chakan, Maharashtra, India.
It's available in what Mahindra calls top-spec T8 M/T form. Aesthetically, the new car creates an appearance with bumpers front and rear, chrome-framed fog lamps, stylish roof rails, 15" alloy wheels and a tailgate-mounted, full size spare wheel.
Seven-seats
The TUV300 has seven-seats with durable fabric upholstery for the front bucket seats and rear bench seat. The fascia features piano gloss black detailing and brushed chrome-look surrounds.
A multifunction steering wheel offers audio and hands-free bluetooth controls, while the centre stack is also home to a double-DIN infotainment system, as well as the controls for standard air conditioning.
The infotainment system includes Bluetooth connectivity for convenient, as well as music streaming and also offers easily accessible USB and analogue AUX inputs.
1.5-litre engine
On the passenger safety front, dual airbags offer occupant safety in the case of a collision, while the braking system is fitted with ABS anti-lock control, incorporating electronic brake force distribution (EBD). Automatic door locking is also standard.
The engine is a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine featuring twin-stage turbocharging, the four-cylinder unit has a rated maximum power output of 73.5kW/240Nm.
The gearbox is a five-speed manual unit.
Suspension, ride and handling
The TUV300 features a suspension set-up aimed at offering confident handling and positive steering, combined with a smooth, pliant ride on and off the road.
Mahindra's Cushion Suspension Technology, linked to the enhanced torsional stiffness of the third-generation chassis (derived from the latest Mahindra Scorpio) ensures exceptional ride refinement and sure-footed handling.
The independent system up front employs dual wish- bone, coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear system comprises a multi-link design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The power-assisted steering achieves a turning circle of 10.7metres.
Tech features
The TUV300 uses static cornering lights which illuminate automatically when cornering.
Additional lighting-related features include follow-me-home and lead-me-to headlight operation when the TUV300 is locked or unlocked.
Mahindra says the TUV300 uses brake energy regeneration helps to further economical fuel efficiency, while Intellipark reverse assistance makes reversing easier.
The BlueSense app allows control of the infotainment system, including volume adjustment, track selection, play/pause control.The app can even track selected vehicle parameters.
Price
TUV300 T8 Manual costs R229 995
It's offered with a three-year or 100 000km warranty, and a three-year or 90 000km service plan.
