Mahindra’s upcoming MPV, internally called U321, has been spotted undergoing benchmark testing alongside the Toyota Innova Crysta. This MPV is expected to go on sale later this year as a successor to the Xylo.
While Mahindra has used a monocoque platform for cars like the XUV500 and KUV100 before, the U321 would be the company’s first seven-seater to be built around a monocoque chassis. The heavy camouflage hides most of the details, although the overall proportions and front fascia bear a resemblance to the Xylo. The wraparound headlamp looks similar to the Imperio. Inside, we can expect it to get features like a touchscreen infotainment system, auto climate control and start-stop function among others.
Given the new underpinnings, it is quite clear that Mahindra will want to use a new moniker for the U321 instead of calling it a Xylo. The development for the U321 is taking place at Mahindra’s Vehicle Development Centre located in Chennai. We can expect it to carry over the 2.2-litre and 2.5-litre diesel engines from the Xylo. The Mahindra U321 will compete against the likes of Tata Hexa and the Renault Lodgy.
Source: team-BHP
