Mahindra’s Korean arm, Ssangyong, will showcase a new compact crossover SUV, the XIV-3, at the Paris Motor Show in September. According to reports, the model is believed to be almost production ready and should go on sale latest by 2014. The concept is expected to make way for a new entry-level model that will be positioned below the Korando.
With this size and price point it will be a direct competition for the Ford Ecosport; likely to be powered by either a 1.6 litre diesel or a similar petrol unit. Ssangyong may also offer both automatic and manual transmission along with a four wheel drive option for the top end model. Further and more specific details will be available at the motor show.
Looking at the demand from the utility vehicles in India, we will not be surprised if Mahindra decides to bring this vehicle here at the time of its global launch. In fact, the utility car major might as well consider building and exporting the car from India, for added cost benefits. The XIV-3 is should compete with the Renault Duster, Ford EcoSport and few others that will be available in India by then.
On a related note, it is believed that parent company Mahindra is currently collaborating with Ssangyong’s to develop two new vehicles for the Indian market. It is also said to have a hand in the development of the all-new 2014 Scorpio.
