In looks and capabilities it is a utility vehicle but also offers the comfort of a saloon

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) have long been the pioneers among SUV’s on the Indian subcontinent but they have graduated from making basic army type Jeeps like Thar to the much more sophisticated Scorpio. Now seeing the huge growing market of more affordable compact SUV’s, or SUV looking ‘crossover’ cars, they offer some smaller and less expensive vehicles that offer space and off-road capabilities of a utility vehicle but with the comfort and sophistication of modern saloons.

The four metres is a magic number because vehicles under a four-metre length qualify for a substantial excise reduction that makes them much more affordable. The 4.45 m long Scorpio was followed by a more spacious Xylo and then the 3.98 m long Quanto but the latter was not a great success. But their new muscular looking TUV300 (TUV for Tough Utility Vehicle) has been an instant hit attracting long waiting lists. M&M have done a great job with providing enough space for seven people to sit in comfort in such a short vehicle. This spacious interior is mainly because of a short engine compartment where the compact 3-cylinder 1493 cc mHawk80 diesel engine has been aligned ‘in line’ and not transverse as in most small engines. This alignment results in better power transmission to the rear wheel drive making the power delivery a little more efficient and quiet. The TUV also sports braking regeneration that makes it a little more fuel efficient but it is a feature most drivers will not notice.

The TUV commands attention on the road with clean rather boxy lines instead of all the bumps and curves many new models sport today. Though boxy, it is well balanced and quite easy on the eye with an attractive slatted grille and alloy wheels.

The interiors too are also clean and unfussy with good comfortable seats in attractive two tone colours. The high roof also gives a sense of good inner space. It comes in eight trim levels in a choice of six colours. The instrument panel is similarly clean and simple but has smart displays of all the necessary information. The small centre display of the comprehensive infotainment system also switches to a rear view parking assist that is a big help when reversing. The body, mounted on a ladder frame chassis, makes it more rigid and safe. Presently it is the only compact SUV to offer an AMT automatic gearshift on two models. The TUV also offers commendable fuel efficiency with an ARAI test report giving it 18.49 kmpl.

On the road the pickup for a fairly heavy vehicle is good rather than great but the two-stage turbocharger allows effortless acceleration without any noticeable turbo lag. What is impressive is the excellent ride comfort over bad roads and the low level of sound intrusion despite the large 215/75/15 tyres. The handling while driving fast is also confident on both highways and cornering. Despite good ground clearance of 191 mm there is little tenancy to roll. An interesting feature is the lights on the sides of the front bumpers that shine at night when steering is turned to illuminate blind area outside the light beam. This is very useful on rural roads or places where there is poor street lighting. In looks and capabilities it is clearly a utility vehicle but one at an affordable price that also offers all the comforts of a saloon. This SUV is therefore a true ‘Town and Country’ SUV.

 (The author is the region’s most celebrated automobile columnist)