Mahindra Quanto Compact SUV, Mahindra's Big Bet Spotted Unmasked

The excitement for the Mahindra Quanto seems to be picking pace as 20^th Sept is coming closer. The Quanto promises to be one of the most exciting products to hit the Indian car market this year. It is a quantum leap for the Indian car industry as it holds the promise of being the first compact SUV in the country with 7 seats, a twin turbo diesel engine delivering 100bhp-240Nm and a competitive price tag to boot. Quanto was spotted recently un-camouflaged, at what seems to be a TV/web commercial shoot ahead of its launch.

Mahindra has built this sub-4meter compact using the body-on-ladder design, and this is one reason why the SUV is expected to be priced between Rs. 5-6 lakh. Since the 2012 Mahindra Quanto compact SUV will measure under 4 meters in length, it will qualify as a small car as per the Indian government regulations and therefore will qualify for a lower excise duty. This is one of the major factors that is expected to make the Mahindra Quanto challenge the likes of the Renault Duster and the upcoming Ford EcoSport crossover. Gauging from the big success of the Renault Duster Compact SUV, Mahindra does have a potential winner on its hand, with the generous equipment levels, if the pricing is just right.

The Quanto also promises to be a big leap of faith for Mahindra as the company is unveiling its first three cylinder turbo diesel engine which is a downsized version of the 2.2 Liter mHawk turbo diesel mill. The engine powering the 2012 Quanto is anticipated to use twin turbochargers, another first for Mahindra. With the output of 100bhp-240Nm, the engine is the most powerful turbo diesel powertrain in the Mahindra range, when it comes to specific output levels which at over 66bhp per litre, edges out the flagship 2.2 Liter mHawk engine. This downsized engine, designated the mCR100 could be used by Mahindra in a range of its vehicles in the coming years. This makes the Quanto in essence, a very important product for Mahindra as it could be a test bed for many future launches.

The Quanto will ride on 15inch wheels, and will be launched in rear wheel drive guise.  ABS as well as airbags could be offered on the top end model. The Quanto is expected to deliver an ARAI claimed mileage figure of 17.3 Kmpl.

Image Courtesy: TeamBhp

Read More on : Mahindra Quanto price in India