Mahindra in India is also wanting to jump on the SUV bandwagon, though look for their SUV at the lower end of the marketplace, not the top.
They have revamped their globally focused XUV500 SUV, and its enhanced equipment levels and improved ride will accompany the 2015 version.
In addition to the refreshed look and topped-up tech, the company is breaking new ground with mild hybrid technology, which is derived from its involvement in the FIA Formula E electric car racing series.
Its regenerative braking system claims back kinetic energy that would normally be wasted under braking, using it to charge the vehicle battery instead, and is the first time Mahindra has employed such technology to a road car.
SUV head-nodder.
Another significant update to the Indian-built SUV will be a six-speed automatic transmission, which is due to arrive in the first half of next year.
The styling changes bring redesigned front and rear bumpers housing an updated grille, chrome-surrounded fog-lights and “bending” projector headlights, while the body changes continue with a new more “muscular” bonnet and wheel arches that house new 17 inch alloy wheels.
Safety features include six airbags including curtain versions as standard, and ESC, hill hold, hill descent, ABS with EBD and disc brakes all round across the board.
Not bad for a bargain basement SUV, and at least it is scheduled for 2016, not 2020 like the Lotus.
