Mahindra has finally launched the all-new Alturas G4 in India with a price tag of Rs 26.95 lakhs (introductory ex-showroom). The Alturas G4 is the new flagship SUV from Mahindra and it arrivea in the segment dominated by the Toyota Fortuner for over a decade apart from the American brute, the Ford Endeavour. Being a full-size seven-seater, the Alturas G4 is also a new alternative to other seven-seater at this price point – the Skoda Kodiaq and newly introduced Honda CR-V. Let’s see how the Indian-bred SUV fare against these upmarket SUVs on paper.
Exterior and Styling:
Off the bat, the Alturas appears to be massive compared to the other two, and in fact it is if you look at the dimensions. It has an impressive road presence thanks to its huge proportions and imposing Mahindra grille. The body creases combined with high ground clearance and 18inch wheels make the Alturas very imposing to look at.
In comparison, the Kodiaq looks dwarfed by the Mahindra. But the Czech SUV makes it up with its style quotient. The Superb-like lights with gorgeous looking wheels and sharp body lines make the Kodiaq a looker. It appears much more premium compared to the Alturas' brawny demeanour.
In its newest generation, the CR-V debuted as a seven seater. This means it has grown in size and it has also adopted Honda’s newest design philosophy. Upfront, the Chrome grille flanked by futuristic headlamp units is complemented by huge taillight cluster and nicely designed bumpers.
Interior and features:
The Alturas G4's interior is a reminiscent of older Mercedes-Benz vehicles. There’s a good use of material such as quilted Nappa leather and soft-touch plastic all around the cabin. Mahindra has also added a long feature list to make the Alturas feature loaded. This includes eight-way adjustable seats, nine airbags, TPMS, ventilated seats, dual zone climate control, and 360-degree camera. Even the second and third row of the Alturas is fairly spacious.
The Kodiaq retains its no fuss cabin as seen in all other Skoda vehicles. The centre console is dominated by large screen and the rotary knobs. The Kodiaq also comes equipped with many unique features inside the cabin making it stand out from the rest of the seven-seater SUVs.
Engine and Transmission:
Mahindra has plonked in a new 2.2-litre diesel engine under the hood of the Alturas G4. Although it’s down on displacement from its direct rivals, it produces a healthy 178bhp and 400Nm. The Merc-sourced seven-speed automatic transmission sends power to all-four-wheels in 4x4 guise, and to rear wheels in 4x2 guise.
Speaking about displacement, the CR-V has a 1.6-litre whereas the Kodiaq has a 2.0-litre diesel engine. The CR-V does get an option of a petrol engine as well. Power output of the Honda is 118bhp/300Nm and of the Skoda is 148bhp/340Nm. Transmissions are nine-speed and seven-speed automatic, respectively.
Conclusion:
Both the CR-V and Kodiaq are down on power and size compared to the new-comer Alturas. But both these SUVs are deemed more premium and carry an upmarket badge compared to the rugged and utilitarian image the Mahindra badge is famous for in the country. Now it all comes down to the personal choice of the car buyer choosing between the two premium SUVs, or the all-new Mahindra Alturas G4.
