More powerful Mahindra TUV300 mHawk100 launched

Mahindra adds two new variants to the TUV300 range, fitted with the more powerful mHawk 100 engine.

Despite being a well-priced and overall balanced package, the TUV300 has been often criticized for its meek powertrain as it lacked the outright grunt of its rivals. Mahindra has now addressed this issue by plonking a more powerful motor in the TUV300. The homegrown manufacturer has added two new variants to the TUV300 range that come powered by the mHawk 100 diesel engine. Prices start at Rs 8.87 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai).

The mHawk 100 engine is the same unit as featured in the recently launched Mahindra NuvoSport. The 1.5-litre, 3-cyclinder turbocharged diesel engine develops 100bhp of maximum power and 240Nm of peak-torque. It is made available in two variants – T8 and T8 AMT. The former comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The mHawk 100 engine has an ARAI rated fuel economy of 18.49km/l. It also comes with a switchable Eco mode function and micro-hybrid start/stop technology to reduce fuel consumption.

The lower variants – T4 and T6 - along with the T8 trim will continue to come powered with the lower tune of the same engine, dubbed mHawk 80, developing 80bhp and 230Nm.

Commenting on the launch of the more powerful TUV300, Pravin Shah, President & Chief Executive (Automotive), Mahinda India said, “At Mahindra it has always been our endeavour to incorporate consumer insights and feedback and hence we are happy to introduce the more powerful TUV300 with the mHawk 100 engine. Further the TUV300 AMT T8 variant will offer a more thrilling drive with the upgraded power. With over 25,000 TUV300s on Indian roads, it has emerged as a strong player in its segment. With its all new powerful engine as well as a winning combination of bold true-blue SUV design, premium & elegant interiors, superior driving pleasure and best in class safety, the TUV300 will become an even more compelling value proposition for our customers.”

The Mahindra TUV300 competes against the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Ford EcoSport and its very own stable-mate NuvoSport.

Also read - 2015 Mahindra TUV300 Review: First Drive