Mahindra 4x4 pickup

[78Bronco]

Very impressive payload, it's going to force change here in NA!

[Lost Canadian]

It's a start, and it might work ok on a farm, but it looks pretty cheap. With only a 4 year warranty I have to wonder how much faith Mahindra has in long term durability/reliability, and overseas reviews of Mahindra in general seem to indicate subpar initial quality with their vehicles. At this point with long term market viability being a huge question mark, and reliability/durability being the other big unknowns, I'm not sure I'd be willing to drop $20+ K on this truck. I do like the diesel and payload capacity but when faced with a reality of choosing this or a proven platform like the Frontier/Tacoma for overland travel, gesh I don't know, going with the Mahindra seems like a bit of a gamble. Of course if you have the coin for a toy.... Certainly Mahindra is worth keeping an eye on though.

[Bennyhana]

Look what happened to Hyundai...who would have thought when those things first hit the states...

[4Rescue]

Automatic transmission : 6 speeds
Manual transmission: n/a
...
locking center diff N


...

YEah Diesel!!!!!! But... No Manual Tranny option??? I just lost intrest in a major way.

I also hope that by having NO CDL that means it's a mechanical system that doesn't need one ( I relaize it's part time 4wd so that's a good bet...) I do think that the styling will be massivly improved once someone get's ahold of one and starts armoring it up/hacking off those fenders and hideous bumpers.

Cheers

Dave

[dox]

It's a start, and it might work ok on a farm, but it looks pretty cheap. With only a 4 year warranty I have to wonder how much faith Mahindra has in long term durability/reliability, and overseas reviews of Mahindra in general seem to indicate subpar initial quality with their vehicles. At this point with long term market viability being a huge question mark, and reliability/durability being the other big unknowns, I'm not sure I'd be willing to drop $20+ K on this truck. I do like the diesel and payload capacity but when faced with a reality of choosing this or a proven platform like the Frontier/Tacoma for overland travel, gesh I don't know, going with the Mahindra seems like a bit of a gamble. Of course if you have the coin for a toy.... Certainly Mahindra is worth keeping an eye on though.

Honda of America still offers "only" a 3 year, 36k mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. I realize these are not 4x4's, but they are considered to be some of the most reliable vehicles in the world.

So were the famed Toyota's that you mentioned, at least in my mind. Until the Tundra's started having numerous recalls. Then the issues with the older Tacos. Then the constant rust issues of some earlier generations. And so it goes onward.

The old saying went that toyota's were so reliable and yet so rusty, that in 300k miles you'd be driving the most reliable vehicle frame, because that would be all that was left.

I'm tired of driving frames.

I'm going to give these Mahindras a fair shake. If they are crap, I can accept that. But discounting them solely based on their warranty and comparing them to a Taco (or any other Yota) that now has a tarnished name before they've even had their moment to shine is not really fair.

Can't wait to see how they do.

[ywen]

This truck is big! The pics of it by itself has no frame of reference.. but it makes the Defender look compact!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3570/3409629996_e720cb5d89_o.jpg

It looks as big as the F150!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3442/3403633417_77e7ae3df2_b.jpg

And it makes the Dakota look like a sub-compact!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3063/3403633401_ca6a48f097.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3644/3403633413_fe367d7a21.jpg

This guy has a bunch of real-life Mahindra pics...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanleyelliott/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3430/3389636731_199fbecfa1_o.jpg

[78Bronco]

Very interesting design.

[getlost4x4]

:Wow1::Wow1::drool::drool::smiley_drive::smiley_dr ive:

This guy has a bunch of real-life Mahindra pics...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanleyelliott/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3430/3389636731_199fbecfa1_o.jpg[/QUOTE]

[BIGdaddy]

I REALLLY like that truck!

I'm gonna say that CA is likely not going to let us have a diesel version, though stranger things have happened.

(for example, the diesel liberty and G. Cherokee have never been offered here...stupid)

[haven]

thanks for the link to the Flickr photos. Here's
one that shows a 2 inch suspension? body?
lift, sitting next to a stock height Mahindra.

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/mahindra2inchlift.jpg

The company that makes it is kitcar.cl, located in Santiago, Chile.
They also make the snorkel and bumper shown in a previous photo.

Comparing dimensions of the Mahindra pickup to other trucks,

Mahindra regular cab 4x4
Overall height 71.8 inches
Overall width 69.7
Overall length 206.7
Wheelbase 119.7
Bed length 7.5 feet

Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab
Overall height 65.7
Overall width 72.2
Overall length 190.4
Wheelbase 109.4
Bed length 6.1 feet

F150 regular cab 4x4
Overall height 76
Overall width 78.9
Overall length 231.7
Wheelbase 145
Bed length 8 feet

So the Mahindra is about halfway between the midsize Tacoma
and the full size Ford.

Thinking about using the Mahindra offroad, the rear overhang of
the 7 foot pickup box looks to be a limiting factor.

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/mahindra-pickup-1.jpg

Shorten the bed to a 6 foot length like the Tacoma, and that problem
is solved. Now where did I leave my plasma cutter?

[Redline]

haven,

You're so very correct about the rear overhang... when I saw this picture I said "Wow", looks worse than most full-sized pickups.





http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3430/3389636731_199fbecfa1_o.jpg

[alosix]

Its nothing Mr Plasma can't fix.

Though honeslty.. most of us would probably pull the bed and go 'ute' style to finish the look :)

Jason

[CA-RJ]

Thinking about using the Mahindra offroad, the rear overhang of
the 7 foot pickup box looks to be a limiting factor.

Shorten the bed to a 6 foot length like the Tacoma, and that problem
is solved. Now where did I leave my plasma cutter?

Sorta like the T-100, though KC seems to not have any problems traveling the back country with his.

[ywen]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3411/3650742091_732639ed7a_b.jpg

TIGHT!!!!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2671/3864923100_5f08f82e96_o.jpg

LOL

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2702/4036822880_f983b94451_o.jpg

[Redline]

Looks like the chassis/wheelbase may have been designed for the Cab/SUV, and the bed/overhang was not planned for. Not a big deal for 'utility' use but certainly not ideal for more challenging back-country travel.

Agreed = T100

[ywen]

Well seeing that Mahindra still build CJs in India, you'd think if this pickup sells well, they might come out with a version more geared towards off-roading.. perhaps even a challenger to the Wrangler?

[Lost Canadian]

But discounting them solely based on their warranty and comparing them to a Taco (or any other Yota) that now has a tarnished name before they've even had their moment to shine is not really fair.


I'm not discounting them, I'm just assessing the reality and am currious as to how viable they will be long term. The current truck market ain't exactly screaming, and Mahindra's timing can certainly been seen as .... shall we say interesting. As far as their product goes, at around the same price point comparing them to a Tacoma/Frontier is a fair assessment in my eyes. Both the Tacoma/Frontier are proven platforms, just look around this site for examples. Both have very good reliability/ durability ratings, both have better warranties, and both are more polished in terms of fit finish, and technology. As a measure of value, looking at quality, ability, and risk of purchase, realistically which direction do you think most people will lean.

I will keep my eye on them, Mahindra certainly has made an interesting move in the market, but they would need to make a more compelling argument, either fiscally or with a more a competitive product if they wanted my money. That's just my honest assessment.

[winkosmosis]

Wow.. so it's the styling that makes it look like a mini truck. Now it makes more sense why the cab looks so narrow in pics, like vertical coffin.

They really need to find some better designers.

[peterjems]

I would love to give it a try at this. I have been to India a couple of time and it has been a big hit there. The traders use this to have their goods supplied to the cities. It is a pretty strong contender on the Indian roads but here it has to fight its way right from the bottom.

[Viggen]

Im super interested in it. Sure the front bumper is ugly, but that can be remedied with some steel and a welder and the interior isnt the most luxurious BUT, and most importantly, it is the ONLY light duty diesel truck in our market and with that, I am very interested. Its going to have a longer warranty than most new cars and I would also purchase an extended warranty plan as a just in case. I would think that most people who have a geniune use of a truck would be into this. Good hp/ tq figures, diesel for increased engine life and mpg, full frame, upright seating for visibility...Im sold.

My only gripe is that the interior center stack looks like its angry at you...
http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/12/2009/08/500x_Mahindra_Truck_INT.jpg

[mlabbep]

Mahindra Scorpio 2009 Chile
En Lo Valdes Cajon del Maipo Chile
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2483/3768923976_b1530b53b4_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2532/3768125695_a702d1a55d_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2566/3768926700_5ac0927c40_b.jpg

Modification Sept 2009

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2536/4090744587_81b78c8637_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2527/4090744069_be5ba14f77_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2571/4091511866_7d3db2d5fc_b.jpg

By mlabbep Chile

[haven]

Welcome to ExPo, mlabbep!

Thanks for sharing the photos of your Mahindra Scorpio. Looks like there are plenty of opportunities in the mountains near Santiago to use four wheel drive!

Does your truck have the 2.6L or 2.2L diesel engine? Have you experienced any problems with your SUV?

In USA, Mahindra will start selling the pickup next month, and the SUV in about a year.

Chip Haven

[mlabbep]

Hi Chip. A warm greeting from Chile to all members of Expo, really is a fascinating site where vehicles and are truly wonderful experiences.
My SUV Scorpio interior trim is very simple but functional. To meet this strong spirit out of the way, has a built-efficient electronic traction type 4x4. It is also equipped with a powerful diesel engine SOHC intercooled 2.5-liter, CRDe technology and eight valves. Mechanical transmission has five speeds and a power of 113 HP at 3,800 RPM. It is a robust vehicle of great strength, ideal for "making roads".
When any member coming to Chile, do not hesitate to contact me, here in Chile there are many beautiful places to explore.

Warm regards

Matias Labbe from Chile

[Viggen]

Its good to see someone who actually has a Mahindra product. When are they going up for sale in the US? Next month for sure?

[haven]

This has nothing to do with the Mahindra pickup, but might be important to potential Mahindra dealers: Several web sites are reporting that Mahindra is thinking about (or even has made an offer) to buy SAAB.

Mahindra trucks and SAAB cars are not a perfect fit by any means. But selling SAABs might be an important way for Mahindra dealers to remain solvent. And selling Mahindra trucks might help SAAB dealers, too. SAAB has dealers all over Europe as well as about 220 in USA and Canada.

[GlobalMonkey]

This has nothing to do with the Mahindra pickup, but might be important to potential Mahindra dealers: Several web sites are reporting that Mahindra is thinking about (or even has made an offer) to buy SAAB.

Mahindra trucks and SAAB cars are not a perfect fit by any means. But selling SAABs might be an important way for Mahindra dealers to remain solvent. And selling Mahindra trucks might help SAAB dealers, too. SAAB has dealers all over Europe as well as about 220 in USA and Canada.

I know that this is a Mahindra thread, but just to reply to Haven, Spykers Cars of the Netherlands (http://www.spykercars.nl) were today, December 21th, in meeting with GM. Spyker's original bid was declined on Friday, but just last night Spyker came back with new bid, seriously interested in buying SAAB.
Tomas

[haven]

Spyker is not the only bidder. We'll see if any company will post a bid
acceptable to GM and the Swedish government.

[haven]

Now the Mahindra management is saying sales will start in Spring 2010.
Testing is complete, but the EPA and the NHTSA have not issued a final approval. Sigh...

http://www.trucktrend.com/features/news/163_news091222_mahindra_diesel_trucks_on_track_for _spring_2010_release/index.html

[jingram]

Well after seeing pics of it next to a dodge dakota, I have totally lost interest in it. Perhaps the pics are deceiving, but the thing looks HUGE. Nearly full size. I still bemoan the fact that automakers have lost site of what makes a "compact" truck.

[kerry]

Gurkha asked me to post this link here:

http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/4x4-vehicles/60601-mahindra-scorpio-4wd.html

[ywen]

Well after seeing pics of it next to a dodge dakota, I have totally lost interest in it. Perhaps the pics are deceiving, but the thing looks HUGE. Nearly full size. I still bemoan the fact that automakers have lost site of what makes a "compact" truck.

Yep it's huge.. look at it next to a F150..

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3442/3403633417_77e7ae3df2_b.jpg

[dox]

Yep it's huge.. look at it next to a F150..

While some see this as a disadvantage, it makes me even more interested. I was thinking it would be smaller than a tacoma and that I wouldn't fit in it well (I'm very tall and built like a NFL linebacker). Seeing that it is nearly as big as a F150 (but maybe not quite?) and has the potential to get nearly 30MPG highway, I'm getting more excited.

I hope this really happens, so I have an opportunity to drive it.

[milo12]

No way can you judge the size from that picture. The f150 is at least 10 feet away and the Mahindra is much closer to the lens.

Why don't you just look at the website and compare the real numbers from the data sheet?

F150 4 door 248.4 long, 163 WB
Mahindra 4 door 206.73 long, 119.68 WB

Mahindra is 85.4 in shorter overall and has a 87.05 in shorter wheelbase.

[chrismc]

F150 4 door 248.4 long, 163 WB
Mahindra 4 door 206.73 long, 119.68 WB

Mahindra is 85.4 in shorter overall and has a 87.05 in shorter wheelbase.

Might want to double-check your math... ;)

[milo12]

:victory: Hilarious, what a dummy. I subtracted the wb from the length for each vehicle.

F150 is 41.67 longer and the F150 WB is 43.32 longer.

Hope I got it right this time.

[chrismc]

That looks better. :) I'm surprised that the savings in length are entirely from the wheelbase! That Mahindra should turn on a dime compared to the F-150. Any idea how the track width's compare? I can't wait to test drive one of these things! (and then let someone else reliability-test them)

[haven]

Don't know the track width yet, but we do have information
about the overall vehicle width, compared to Tacoma and F150.

From post #262:

Mahindra regular cab 4x4
Overall height 71.8 inches
Overall width 69.7
Overall length 206.7
Wheelbase 119.7
Bed length 7.5 feet

Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab
Overall height 65.7
Overall width 72.2
Overall length 190.4
Wheelbase 109.4
Bed length 6.1 feet

F150 regular cab 4x4
Overall height 76
Overall width 78.9
Overall length 231.7
Wheelbase 145
Bed length 8 feet

[d110pickup]

I saw a white one on the road in Alpharetta, Ga. last week. It looked better in person than I thought it would.
I think their US headquarters are there.
Mike

[Nullifier]

So it dims are like the 1st gen taco then.

[haven]

Mahindra and Navistar are talking about the possiblity of using Navistar manufacturing facilities to assemble the Mahindra pickups in USA or Mexico. Navistar builds International trucks and Workhorse vehicle chassis, and has spare capacity in its manufacturing facilities. Mahindra needs to find a North American facility to assemble its vehicles to avoid the 25% "chicken tax" levied on trucks assembled elsewhere and imported.

Mahindra and Navistar already have a joint venture in India to build heavy trucks.

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/01/report-mahindra-could-partner-with-navistar-to-assemble-pickups.html

[mtnbike28]

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2010/ostatni/dakar/pl_a_133_dakar_39.jpg
The Mahindra next to the 4 door Hilux?

[gmcpimpin]

Yep it's huge.. look at it next to a F150..

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3442/3403633417_77e7ae3df2_b.jpg

Got a another picture of the colorado in shot?

[maxama10]

I'd pull the bed, relocate the spare, lop the frame off behind the shackles, and fab a bumper and flat bed. Problem solved

[pint]

I just saw a 2 door white one with the push bar in Parker, CO a couple miles from my house 30 minutes ago. I really like the styling. JMHO. Don't know if it's worth $20K plus?

[Navman]

Bump. Any more news? Spring is coming soon...

I can't wait for this truck, although I know I'm setting myself up to be dissappointed. A dealer is supposedly just down the road.

[JeffRRC]

For some reason it reminds me of Squidward from Spongebob from that angle. But I like Squidward so it's OK. :)

[fishy_frontier]

I've seen multiple ones around my area both 2 door and 4 door versions. I think they look pretty good.

[Navman]

For some reason it reminds me of Squidward from Spongebob from that angle. But I like Squidward so it's OK. :)

Sweet. You just gave me the hook I needed.

I'll convince the kids the truck looks like Squidward
The kids will beg me to buy it
I'll say no
The kids will go beg their mother to convince me to buy it
My wife will cave under the pressure
I'll get a new truck...all for the kids of course

[ywen]

I've seen multiple ones around my area both 2 door and 4 door versions. I think they look pretty good.

How are tehy in size compared to your Frontier? What about ground clearance?

[JeffRRC]

I registered with Mahindra online. They are supposed to notify me when they become available for a test drive.

[fishy_frontier]

How are tehy in size compared to your Frontier? What about ground clearance?

I haven't gotten the Frontier next to one but I would say they are very similar in size with the exception of more headroom in the Mahindra maybe. Ground clearance looks to be around the same height that my truck was when stock. I saw another 4 door today. If I can find one that's parked I'll try and park next to it and snap some comparison pics.

[dox]

I haven't gotten the Frontier next to one but I would say they are very similar in size with the exception of more headroom in the Mahindra maybe. Ground clearance looks to be around the same height that my truck was when stock. I saw another 4 door today. If I can find one that's parked I'll try and park next to it and snap some comparison pics.

I would love to see those comparison pics if you are able to find one. I'm keeping a close eye on these trucks.

When I'm ready to buy, it should have been out for at least a year and will maybe give them an opportunity to get any bugs out.

Maybe my expectations/hopes are too high, but a lot of folks in the United States would like a small-to-medium sized pickup with a diesel.

[xped]

I'm also signed up to test one of these when they come out. I've always

wanted a small turbo diesel pickup, so much I considered building one. My

worries are the new clean burning diesels seem to have alot of problems (6.0

Powerstroke). I don't like that it's a new engine design and not something

tried and tested. I love the hauling capacity but I bet it rides horribly empty.

I did a little research and it looks like the standard cab might fit some full

size cabovers. My wife is sold on the MPG as our Montero avg. 12 mpg

around town.

[haven]

This isn't good: Mahindra still has not filed the paperwork necessary to
receive EPA certification for their diesel pickup. Looks like they are in
no hurry to introduce the truck to USA.

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/02/mahindra-hasnt-applied-for-epa-certification-yet.html

[Maddmatt]

You know, John Perez is the same guy who tempted us all with the Crosslander. Did we talk about this already? I'm still waiting for my test drive in that one. I hope he works it out, but it may just be too difficult to introduce a new vehicle in this country....

[buddha]

Looks like they're opening a dealership in my neck of the woods.

http://www.mahindranc.com/

Can't wait to see one of these in person.

[taco2go]

Enjoyed watching the video in that link. Especially the classic Indian self depracatory jab by the exec: "this is not going to be the truck that's used for, let's say, showing off that I have a truck!" HA!

BTW, does anyone have any idea how long the EPA certification process can take? A relative of mine in Mumbai says they have fully assembled trucks sitting on the port. I thought they would be assembled in the US?

[haven]

Mahindra said that the first vehicles would be manufactured in India, even
though they will be subject to the 25% import tariff. They're exploring several
options for construction in North America, but I bet their dealers are clamoring
for vehicles to show to the public.

[CA-RJ]

The Mahindra's are now listed on Edmunds.com (http://www.edmunds.com/mahindra/tr40/2010/index.html). They list the base price at $23,700.

[haven]

According to Automotive News, Mahindra & Mahindra is supposed to announce
the schedule for introduction of the pickup by the end of the month. The actual
delivery date will be sometime farther in the future.

[Regcabguy]

All autos for the US. I guess they figure we can't shift. Hopefully the transfercase will be manual. We finally get a light diesel truck and no manuals.

[dox]

They may be all automatics at first, but I think it's a bit speculative at the moment as they haven't actually made any announcements to that effect... that's only what is listed on Edmunds.com for a vehicle that hasn't even officially received a launch date yet.

The unit that Mike Levine over at pickuptrucks.com tested in Atlanta last year had a manual tranny, however that was unit brought over from another market as a test vehicle... so that might not mean anything either. Here's the link to that review: http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/08/taj-mahauler-we-drive-the-mahindra-diesel-pik-up.html

I really hope that we know soon, however... these things need to hit the US ASAP.

[CA-RJ]

With Spring 2010 being listed as the new launch date for the TR20 and TR40 pickups, I'm starting to wonder what the real pricing on these trucks is going to be.

For you guys considering one of these, what is your price limit? A new 2010 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner regular cab is about $17k. A 4x4 regular cab is about $20k. Would you pay that much for a Mahindra?

I'm personally looking to buy a 4x4 regular cab at the end of the year and would maybe pay $17k for a Mahindra. What's really getting me is the fuel mileage and range. I can still sorta see myself in one of these with black steel wheels, 235/85R16's and maybe an AT Flip-Pak.

[Navman]

What's really getting me is the fuel mileage and range. I can still sorta see myself in one of these with black steel wheels, 235/85R16's and maybe an AT Flip-Pak.

Same here - except I want the 4 door. I'm not as anxious as I was before so I have some time to see what pricing and such turns out. I'm looking forward to eventually seeing them at a dealer and going for a test drive.

[AmericaOverland]

Looks like they're opening a dealership in my neck of the woods.

http://www.mahindranc.com/

Can't wait to see one of these in person.

Buddha,

I got on a live chat with one of their reps not five minutes ago. They're not going on sale until June at the earliest. He could not quote a price until then.

The question I have about the tiptronic transmissions is this - can you shift manually through all the gears, or just the first three gears? On my car, if I need to, I go through 1st, 2nd, and then Drive to get out of a slick area. I prefer manual, but it helps if I can keep the car in a particular gear and keep it from breaking traction.

Stephanie

[haven]

deafdrummer,

Please tell us how to talk with a Mahindra rep via live chat.
I didn't see a link on the www.mahindrana.com web site.
Thanks.

Chip Haven

[AmericaOverland]

http://www.mahindranc.com/mahindra_trucks.html

My mistake... "Live chat" by the Safeway Mahindra emblem on the left side.

[Herbie]

All those of you who think this Hind...truck, is worthy of Importation into the USA please raise your hand! Raise It!

And just where do you think your USA Dollar goes?


Enough importation of junk from Other Countries Already! And Just Why do we Allow It>?!!!!

Why don't we just build it here in the USA>?!!!




This screed brought to you by the owner of a Toyota 4Runner. Which was assembled, according to Wikipedia, in Tahara, Aichi, Japan.

Bearing in mind that the stated long-term plan for Mahindra is for US-based assembly (admittedly of Knock-down kits, at least near-term).

I'm not old enough to have experienced the same initial shock and outrage when the Japanese began sending cheaper cars to our shores, but I AM old enough to remember the lot of very similar sounding anti-Japanese rhetoric that was still being slung about. I remember the oil crisis of the '70s and die-hard "buy American" folks wondering why anyone would by that junky little Honda CVCC, and why if someone wanted a lightweight 4-cylinder runabout they didn't or couldn't buy American.

Its easy to call someone Un-American for buying a Japanese car in the late '70s or early '80s, just as you could say the same about an Indian marque today. But in my mind, this is the most American way we can behave. Americans have a 200+ year history of taking the best deal we can get from whoever is offering. Not 10 years after WWII ended we were importing cars from Germany at a rate that rebuilt their national economy to a massive degree. We have traded with Britain and France almost continuously for this countries entire existence despite numerous conflicts both armed and political. Globalization is happening. Its a messy, painful process that means jobs gained in one country are lost elsewhere (often here), and perhaps on a macro-scale it would be better for the USA if we bought more products built in the USA. However on a micro-scale, the individual consumer, its a hard thing for most people to place nationalism above consumerism.

Your question is a valid one: "Why don't we just build it here in the USA>?" But that's not a question you ask consumers, that's a question you ask the automakers. The answer is either "Because we don't think we can build one profitably." or "We're too friggen stupid.". I'm not sure which is more true, but in the absence of any competing products, consumers will buy the product they believe will best fit their needs.

Don't be mad at the people in this thread for having an interest in what may be the ONLY compact diesel 4x4 pickup available for sale.

[RMP&O]

It is made in India....that is why I personally don't like it. Not because it is an Indian product for sale in the USA or that it is not a USA made product. No I don't like it because I have serious doubts a good quality truck can be made in India. The design may be good and same for the concept but what about the materials that make up the truck?

I will just wait and see how these do over a 5+Yr period after they have been sold in the USA. I may be wrong, maybe they can make a good quality vehicle in India.

[ignorant]

It is made in India....that is why I personally don't like it. Not because it is an Indian product for sale in the USA or that it is not a USA made product. No I don't like it because I have serious doubts a good quality truck can be made in India. The design may be good and same for the concept but what about the materials that make up the truck?

I will just wait and see how these do over a 5+Yr period after they have been sold in the USA. I may be wrong, maybe they can make a good quality vehicle in India.

How many indian and chinese parts are on your toyota? You would be surprised at how much casting and machining work is being done there. Hell Sikorsky just signed a JV with Tata to make heliocopters there and Cummins has been in with Tata for many years.

http://www.sundaram-clayton.com/ <--- They make parts for everyone..

I used to work in automotive in new product development. I've seen some horrid shops in the third world, I've also seen some so clean you could eat off the machines...

Capitalism rules.. Best for the cheapest..


FWIW... A company that makes awesome tractors and a diesel CJ2-3 copy can't be all that bad.. I mean who dosen't want one of these..

http://www.4-the-love-of-jeeps.com/images/mahindra-jeep-user-21117804.jpg

[Overland Hadley]

Looks like there will be a dealer about 120 miles from me. (Also the closest city for me, so I am there for supplies now and again) Going to check the truck out when I get a chance.

Amazing payload, good MPG, good approach angle. The departure angle is not that great though.

[blakesrover]

A good friend of mine has owned the 4 door pik up down in Nicaragua. I've driven the 2.2l and it has plenty of power. It's a great vehicle in third world countries where pot holes and dirt road driving are a way of life.

[lubega]

Your question is a valid one: "Why don't we just build it here in the USA>?" But that's not a question you ask consumers, that's a question you ask the automakers. The answer is either "Because we don't think we can build one profitably." or "We're too friggen stupid.". I'm not sure which is more true, but in the absence of any competing products, consumers will buy the product they believe will best fit their needs.

Don't be mad at the people in this thread for having an interest in what may be the ONLY compact diesel 4x4 pickup available for sale.

You’re absolutely right. At the end of the day globalization is about what makes most business sense. Importing a vehicle has nothing to do with being un-American. And believe me, I’d be more than happy to buy a rugged, compact diesel-powered workhorse from GM, Chrysler or Ford. But unfortunately, as you rightly point out, there is currently no product that fits this description. Forget the ‘may be,’ part of your comment, when they arrive the TR20 and TR40 will in fact be the ONLY compact diesel pickups.

[haven]

The USA distributor for Mahindra and Mahindra, John Perez, now reports
that all the testing to certify the TR20 and TR40 pickups has been completed,
and the results have been submitted to EPA for approval. The approval process
takes about 30 days, so by the end of May, the M&M pickup should be legal
for sale in USA.

It's not known how quickly vehicles will arrive at dealers after the approval is received.
So Deafdrummer's report of sales starting in June is looking golden.

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/04/report-mahindra-still-marching-towards-unknown-sales-date.html

[Scenic WonderRunner]

"Screed".......huh Herbie?

How kind of you! No.....How Nasty! Stop being Nasty to me...Herbie!!

I never said I was mad at anyone in this thread. And if you are going to quote me....quote ALL of it!

My frustration is, that we don't just build it right here in the U.S.A. .....! We can. You all know we can build it here!


Go ahead and send your US Dollars off shore to India if you like....Herbie!

All I am guilty of, is rescuing a fine piece of Toyota History from the junk pile and keeping it alive! It was already here!


Amazing!


.

[AmericaOverland]

My frustration is, that we don't just build it right here in the U.S.A. .....! We can. You all know we can build it here!

Go ahead and send your US Dollars off shore to India if you like....Herbie!


So, what do you plan to do? We need someone with action, the money to make it happen. First, we have to do something with the government that has acted as our unwelcome nanny in the auto industry. Take care of the excess regulations, and businesses will start to come back here.

[huntsonora]

I'll just copy and paste my post from the other Mahindra thread.

I pulled into a rest stop today to get a bottled water from the cooler in the bed of my truck and I saw a Mahindra parked there. I feel bad as I noticed he was about to pull out and I waved him down.

He was a test driver for the truck and has put 60k on it so far. He said there are 5 test drivers in and around Denver and that they have 3 Indian engineers on hand going over the trucks daily just to make sure everything is right. He said they are hoping to start selling them towards the end of summer

The truck itself is a little bigger than I was anticipationg. The truck he was driving was a crew cab short box and the interior looked fairly roomy given the size of the truck. The interior is not flashy by any means but it's not ugly, just simple. It was an automatic and it's a center console type shifter on it. The front seats were buckets but unless the seats had an armrest built in there wasn't one in that truck which for me would suck. The back seat looked as if I could fit and I'm 6'4" and 240lbs. I'm sure it wouldn't be the greatest in comfort but I could have fit.

He said he really likes the truck overall, said the little diesel is a great engine and he really likes the tranny. He said that the suspension wasn't the greatest and that the bumpers were not that stout. It looked like he was actually using it, I could tell he had driven it over some ranch roads.

All in all I was impressed with what I saw. I'm sure that if it makes it to market somebody will make some suspension upgrades for it.

Best part, he gets over 30mpg

[Ryanmb21]

Over 30 MPG :Wow1:

[Navman]

Over 30 MPG :Wow1:

With 19 gallon tank = almost 600 mile range :)


.

[AmericaOverland]

Sorry guys. This just in from Matthew at Safeway Chevrolet...

Hey Gang,

This past week we've read several reports online saying everything from Mahindra would be here by June to NEXT summer. All of it was just online rumors and speculation.

Late yesterday afternoon a story broke from the Wall Street Journal. Here is an article from Pickuptrucks.com on the story. (You must be a subscriber to WSJ to read the original article)

The U.S. launch of Mahindra's Indian-built small diesel pickup trucks has been pushed back yet again, from this spring to December 2010, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
Pawan Goenka, Mahindra's president of automotive operations, reaffirmed that the TR20 and TR40 compact trucks have completed all of the testing required to meet federal requirements but still require certification from the Environmental Protection Agency before they can go on sale in the U.S. That's expected to happen by the end of July but production won't start until this fall.

Repeated delays have become the norm for Mahindra and its U.S. distributor Global Vehicles USA.

The full article can be seen here:
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/05/report-arrival-of-mahindra-pickup-trucks-in-us-delayed-again-to-december-2010.html

[Maddmatt]

Sorry guys. This just in from Matthew at Safeway Chevrolet...

Hey Gang,

This past week we've read several reports online saying everything from Mahindra would be here by June to NEXT summer. All of it was just online rumors and speculation.

Late yesterday afternoon a story broke from the Wall Street Journal. Here is an article from Pickuptrucks.com on the story. (You must be a subscriber to WSJ to read the original article)

The U.S. launch of Mahindra's Indian-built small diesel pickup trucks has been pushed back yet again, from this spring to December 2010, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
Pawan Goenka, Mahindra's president of automotive operations, reaffirmed that the TR20 and TR40 compact trucks have completed all of the testing required to meet federal requirements but still require certification from the Environmental Protection Agency before they can go on sale in the U.S. That's expected to happen by the end of July but production won't start until this fall.

Repeated delays have become the norm for Mahindra and its U.S. distributor Global Vehicles USA.

The full article can be seen here:
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/05/report-arrival-of-mahindra-pickup-trucks-in-us-delayed-again-to-december-2010.html

Sound similar to what happened to Crosslander - same guys, same problem, same ending - only the parts have changed. Still waiting for my crosslander.

[JamesDowning]

I'm really excited about these trucks. A midsize pickup with a crewcab and a diesel sounds REALLY impressive. I'm glad the US is getting some Diesel options.

The flimsiness of the bumpers don't bother me either... they'd get replaced immediately. I could see ARB and others jumping on this product pretty quick. Anyone know about diff locks being available?

[SRN]

I'm really excited about these trucks. A midsize pickup with a crewcab and a diesel sounds REALLY impressive. I'm glad the US is getting some Diesel options.

The flimsiness of the bumpers don't bother me either... they'd get replaced immediately. I could see ARB and others jumping on this product pretty quick. Anyone know about diff locks being available?

I could be wrong, but my understanding is that ARB already offers a pretty full range of options for Mahindra stuff as they are all over in Australia.

[Ford Prefect]

Sound similar to what happened to Crosslander - same guys, same problem, same ending - only the parts have changed. Still waiting for my crosslander.


FOUND this when researching the crosslander to understand what you were talking about...


In related news, Cross Lander announced that it is no longer Cross Lander. Err... kinda. The company is officially changing its name to Global Vehicles U.S.A. Incorporated. However, as a regrettably infectious tune once said, "It's all the same, only the names will change"-- the company and its charter remain unaltered, and the "Cross Lander" moniker is being retained for future U.S. bound products. The embattled firm further states that it plans to move its home base to the Atlanta, Georgia area later this summer, and claims to still have 150 dealers signed up. (reference autoblog (http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/31/cross-lander-to-sue-mother-romania/))

So it is the same company, G.V. USA, I guess our hopes for a Mahindra are likely to be dashed eventually as well... sigh.


As for lockers... This guy (http://www.4x4community.co.za/forum/showthread.php?p=337654) seems to think that they are being made by Eaton Locker. I am not certain what axles will be in this thing, but these guys (http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/technical-stuff/10095-diff-lock-mahindra-classic.html) say that the old Mahindra CJ's had a Dana 44 in them, so, if they are going with an American axle then it would be easy to do a locker, if not... who knows...

Brian

[CA-RJ]

Here's a link (http://www.polyperformance.com/shop/ARB-RD45-Parts-Mahindra-19-Spline-p-25170.html) with an exploded view of the Mahindra 19 spline rear diff.

[Regcabguy]

Why only automatics here? The other markets get manuals. I'm on the test drive list. It'll be interesting.

[Navman]

Why only automatics here? The other markets get manuals. I'm on the test drive list. It'll be interesting.

Because lazy Americans don't like to shift. It's too hard when you have a cell phone in one hand and a 64 oz. coffee mug in the other.

Really, I don't get it either. A manual seems to be a perfect fit for this vehicle.

[4Rescue]

Because lazy Americans don't like to shift. It's too hard when you have a cell phone in one hand and a 64 oz. coffee mug in the other.

Really, I don't get it either. A manual seems to be a perfect fit for this vehicle.
SAD...but spot on mate... It sure seems like N.American market "trucks" these days are more like our living room then our workshops... I like my bare bones, 5spd-man and would never go with a slush-box unless I am physicaly no longer able to operate a clutch... I sure wish that Truck companies would at least give us the OPTION (- cough Toyota cough - ) of a manual no frills 4wd option... Sure seems like they'd be eassier to make. Real simple solution IMO (and yes I'm eagerating for effect ;) ) take anything that doesn't make the car move or get it over/around an obstacle and to me, you've got all you need... Now I'll admit I've given in to a few creature comforts like AC (but not on hills, it IS a 22RE ad I'd be in second trying to make it :D )and a tape deck with an I-pod adaptor...But that's about it...

Cheers

Dave

[Maddmatt]

FOUND this when researching the crosslander to understand what you were talking about...

(reference autoblog (http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/31/cross-lander-to-sue-mother-romania/))

So it is the same company, G.V. USA, I guess our hopes for a Mahindra are likely to be dashed eventually as well... sigh.



Brian

Yeah - much like the Crosslander, the Mahindra seems to be a simple vehicle that people would be interested in. Not sure if enough are interested to make it a viable competitor, but if they (GV USA) make the appropriate plans, and don't pretend like they're going to be the next Toyota, I don't see any reason why they couldn't be profitable. Assuming they can clear the government hurdles of course.

RE: Automatics. I love to shift. I take pride when driving manuals in changing gears so smoothly that my passengers don't even know it happened. I drive with one eye on the tach, even when I have an automatic. I learned to drive in a Scout with a granny low 1st and no tach. I shift my auto. trans too. I just love to shift.

But there's no way bringing in a vehicle in limited numbers makes sense as a manual, unless its a sports-car. Modern automatics are smarter, more efficient and faster than me. And people are lazy.

[hinoranger]

Why only automatics here? The other markets get manuals. I'm on the test drive list. It'll be interesting.

They say it's actually less expensive to get EPA certification for a powertrain with an automatic transmission because of how the engine and transmission can be programmed to work together to reduce emissions; furthermore, each powertrain has to be certified seperatly so bringing the manual transmission in would at least double the cost of the EPA certification.

I'd love to have something like a Mahindra with a manual transmission but we'll be lucky if the truck gets here at all.

[AmericaOverland]

Because lazy Americans don't like to shift. It's too hard when you have a cell phone in one hand and a 64 oz. coffee mug in the other.

Really, I don't get it either. A manual seems to be a perfect fit for this vehicle.


Times 2!

[AmericaOverland]

SAD...but spot on mate... It sure seems like N.American market "trucks" these days are more like our living room then our workshops... I like my bare bones, 5spd-man and would never go with a slush-box unless I am physicaly no longer able to operate a clutch...


Times 2! I want bare-bone basic.

And the invention of the smartphones/MP3 players that can be plugged directly into my very powerful hearing aids have eliminated the need for $3,000 stereo systems that can shake the mirror glass right out of the housings and flex the body panels enough to chip the paint right off. Or blow the windows out like "acetylene balloon" explosions. Even shatterproof ones!

[kellymoe]

I have serious doubts that we will ever see this vehicle on our soil. GV and those behind it ran the Crosslander into the ground after taking money from prospective dealers and it looks like they are running the same scam here. It's too bad.

[dox]

I have serious doubts that we will ever see this vehicle on our soil. GV and those behind it ran the Crosslander into the ground after taking money from prospective dealers and it looks like they are running the same scam here. It's too bad.

Also read recently that GV USA has filed suit against M&M Mahindra for not meeting the contractual deadlines for delivering the vehicles stateside.

Mahindra has filed to drop the suit, citing many reasons.

Also read a rumor or two, but can't find them, essentially saying Mahindra didn't want GV USA to be the sole distributor, so they are trying to get out of contract.

More here: http://www.deccanherald.com/content/78346/mahindra-counters-lawsuit-us-dealer.html

[Ford Prefect]

On the Automatic tranny...

It only took me one summer living in D.C. driving my toyota celica with a standard transmission to decide that I never needed another manual tranny so long as I live!

Then I got a Toyota truck with a 5 spd, a few auto cars and then a jeep with a 5spd. Still no reason in the WORLD to buy a manual tranny. Heck many of the auto trannies are all but as feul efficiant as the manuals. I just do not see the point in going with a stick anymore.



BESIDES! When was the last time you road center seat in a small pick up with a manual tranny! YIKES! no thanks! :D

[Ford Prefect]

On the Automatic tranny...

It only took me one summer living in D.C. driving my toyota celica with a standard transmission to decide that I never needed another manual tranny so long as I live!

Then I got a Toyota truck with a 5 spd, a few auto cars and then a jeep with a 5spd. Still no reason in the WORLD to buy a manual tranny. Heck many of the auto trannies are all but as feul efficiant as the manuals. I just do not see the point in going with a stick anymore.



BESIDES! When was the last time you road center seat in a small pick up with a manual tranny! YIKES! no thanks! :D

[BlueBomber]

BESIDES! When was the last time you road center seat in a small pick up with a manual tranny! YIKES! no thanks! :D

I do all the time in my dads 89 toyota 4 speed. Its fun to shift the gears for him. I LOVE stick shifts. Ive owned a couple 77 celicas that were stick, a 79 datsun 210 that was a stick and a 74 F-100 that had a three on the tree.
I dont see any point in owning an automatic.......J/K:elkgrin:
Some people like to put it in drive and cruise, I like to choose which gear Im in. Plus, I seem to have horrible luck with keeping an auto together........

[theMec]

During vacation last week, I saw one in Lecco, Italy. I was driving so couldn't get a pic. It was a single cab and looked great with an aluminum flatbed. Is there any other kind of flatbed in Europe? I'm sure it had a manual trans like everything else over there too.

[SAR Skipper]

Yeah - much like the Crosslander, the Mahindra seems to be a simple vehicle that people would be interested in. Not sure if enough are interested to make it a viable competitor, but if they (GV USA) make the appropriate plans, and don't pretend like they're going to be the next Toyota, I don't see any reason why they couldn't be profitable. Assuming they can clear the government hurdles of course.

It sort of does remind me of my 1st Toyota p/u standard cab.
If I had the need, I'd be interested in one for around the town loads, you know, the "honey do" list and stuff.
I'm not real fond of the front suspension set up though, just a personal thing.


RE: Automatics. I love to shift. I take pride when driving manuals in changing gears so smoothly that my passengers don't even know it happened. I drive with one eye on the tach, even when I have an automatic. I learned to drive in a Scout with a granny low 1st and no tach. I shift my auto. trans too. I just love to shift.

I like shifting too. I have an FJ62 which is of course and auto. I've considered several times, switching over to an H55 std trans, but when I'm sitting in the parking lots we call roadways in morning and afternoon traffic, I'm really happy to have the auto. You can build the daylights out of an auto as well and they're perfect for precision movements....don't need a third foot :wings:

But there's no way bringing in a vehicle in limited numbers makes sense as a manual, unless its a sports-car. Modern automatics are smarter, more efficient and faster than me. And people are lazy.

Some people are are lazy, some are old, some are simply uncoordinated:sombrero:
I'm not sure it doesn't make sense though. Market research would bear out that need.

[Navman]

On a recent trip accross the pond, a European coworker gave me a ride in his manual and I asked if most of the cars were manual. His response - "Of course. Only really old people drive automatics".

[thebrassnuckles]

On a recent trip accross the pond, a European coworker gave me a ride in his manual and I asked if most of the cars were manual. His response - "Of course. Only really old people drive automatics".

in the uk your insurance costs more with an auto. something like you cant drive good if you have an auto..

[Ford Prefect]

in the uk your insurance costs more with an auto. something like you cant drive good if you have an auto..

They also limit your driver's license if you have an auto. Besides, gas cost more for a liter there than a gallon here, no surprise they are trying to save as much gas as possible, and autos have always been more fuel inefficient.

[RMP&O]

I shift in my auto all the time. Down from drive to 2nd or 1st to help me slow down or up a mountain pass to keep the tranny from shifting.

From what I have seen very few people do that. Most put it in D and forget about it, often at the expense of their brakes. Just go to Wilson, Wyoming to smell the proof of this!

[dox]

It's looking like this may actually happen now, after a VERY long wait...

Mahindra receives EPA Certification to sell Diesel Trucks in the United States (http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/08/breaking-mahindra-receives-epa-certification-to-sell-diesel-pickups-in-the-us.html)

[theMec]

Excellent! Now if they only offer a manual trans option ...

[Regcabguy]

Will see if the egr and dpf don't choke the poor thing to death now.

[3jarrells]

NPR just reported on Mahindrah. Cleared EPA and on schedule for the end of the year.

[CA-RJ]

Their website shows a December launch. But then, we've been waiting since 2007???

[Viggen]

I gave up on that thing a long time ago. Everytime I think the launch is close and get excited, it goes away for some reason or another. I want them to come to market so bad to prove that there is a diesel light duty truck market in the US.

[3jarrells]

No doubt Viggen. We are due to replace both cars, but honestly there is nothing out there I want. The balance between function and thrift is just not available.

[CA-RJ]

I want to be excited about it coming, but I am concerned about the build quality. It would be great if they showed us what a USA spec truck looks like inside and out.

[Navman]

No doubt Viggen. We are due to replace both cars, but honestly there is nothing out there I want. The balance between function and thrift is just not available.

I feel the same way. But obviously we are wrong because all of the auto companies have reams of data on market research, focus groups, etc. and it all clearly shows that we need expensive vehicles with useless features.

I'm still crossing my fingers for Mahindra.

[Ford Prefect]

No doubt Viggen. We are due to replace both cars, but honestly there is nothing out there I want. The balance between function and thrift is just not available.

I'm with you.

That little four door could be very nice (IF I can fit into it) but personally I would rather they were here for a year or two before I picked one up. Let other poor sods find all of the bugs etc. Then I can get the opinions of others before dropping good money on what might be the next Yugo!

Mind, I really do hope it is not a Yugo, but considering the price point, and quality reviews... sigh...

[Maddmatt]

I feel the same way. But obviously we are wrong because all of the auto companies have reams of data on market research, focus groups, etc. and it all clearly shows that we need expensive vehicles with useless features.

I'm still crossing my fingers for Mahindra.

I don't think NEED is the word, I think WILL PAY FOR is what their market research shows.

[preacherman]

I want to be excited about it coming, but I am concerned about the build quality. It would be great if they showed us what a USA spec truck looks like inside and out.

I have been around some of their trucks in Africa and I was less than impressed with the quality. I know its cool to see some other options available in America but if they follow suit with their existing line of trucks then it will not be anything to write home about. I would rank their build quality somewhat similar to Chrysler cars in the late 80's early 90's.

I personally think it will never be available in the US and I am surprised this thread refuses to die....:elkgrin:

[dox]

They have passed EPA certification and that should be the last major hurdle... however their ongoing saga with Global Vehicles USA may cause a big issue. They just broke off their agreement, and GV USA filed suit a while back, so we will see.

Dealers have gone on record saying they will take delivery from whatever source they can get it.

I'd expect build quality to be similar to a late 90's or early 2000's Ford Ranger. I don't think we should expect a Lexus when we buy a quad-cab 2.2l diesel work truck. Frankly, if we were all so concerned about build quality, none of us would have even taken a second glance at the JK Wranglers prior to the 2011 model year. So cheap inside...

As for reliability issues, who knows? But these trucks have been sold worldwide in other markets for quite a while now. I think if there were issues worth noting, they'll be easily found in other forums where discussions of these take place.

Will I be first in line to buy one? Probably not. But if they end up being a bargain on the used market and relatively reliable, I'll be hunting for one.

[3jarrells]

Found this pic for size reference...

[Overland Hadley]

Found this pic for size reference...

Small thing.

[3jarrells]

Small thing.

Yeah lots of pics you see are quite misleading. I was under the impression it was larger too.

[cwsqbm]

Small thing.

That's a good thing - we have plenty of large trucks in this country.

[haven]

Pickuptrucks.com is reporting what some here have suggested: Mahindra and Mahindra purposely delayed EPA certification of the diesel-powered pickup because M&M was unhappy with the contract they signed with Global Vehicles USA, the USA distributor. The source of the report is GV USA president, John Perez.

It seems that the original contract between M&M and GV USA included a clause that ended the contract if the vehicles were not certified for sale within 3 years. The contract was signed in September 2006. The final EPA certification was achieved in August 2010, more than 3 years later.

When M&M tried to use the 3 year escape clause to pressure GV USA for concessions, GV USA filed suit to try to force M&M to fulfill the original contract. The suit is in the pipeline in federal court, but it may take years to resolve the issue.

Here's the article
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/09/global-vehicles-usa-says-mahindra-delayed-truck-certification-to-void-contract.html

[preacherman]

it is a diesel thing.

we need more diesel options whatever they may be?

seeing the vehicles you list, it is clear you are not a diesel guy.

actually I have driven and ridden in diesel landcruisers all over Africa. I sooooo wish we could get some of the diesel landcruisers they have overseas. The 100 series diesel LC is quite possibly the best truck I have ever been around. I used to have an FJ60 and really considered a half cut form SOR. I like diesels and like most of you I would like to see some in the US, I just don't think we will get any good mid truck/small truck options here any time soon.

[Toyotero]

I moved back down to Nicaragua two weeks ago, and I'm digging the Mahindras Pik Ups that I've seen around town. Attached are a few shots I snapped of two around town yesterday.

They definitely look weird at first, but I think it is a style that is kind of like the 55 series LC... it grows on you, although a 3 inch suspension lift and an ARB face-lift definitely could do it wonders.

This country should be a good test market for them. I've yet to meet anyone who drives one, but when I do I'm going to ask the accumulated mileage and their opinion of the vehicle so far. If they can survive the tough environment (heat, rain, dust), terrible roads and typically negligent maintenance that is the norm here, then they could have a shot at being the poorman's Land Cruiser or Hilux.

Regards,

[dox]

GV USA is going to attempt to place an order with M&M Mahindra today for $35 million dollars worth of trucks. This should be interesting. :costumed-smiley-007

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/09/global-vehicles-usa-to-attempt-35-million-order-for-mahindra-pickups.html


Despite a bitter ongoing dispute, Georgia-based auto distributor Global Vehicles USA said it will attempt to place a $35 million order on Friday Sept. 24 with Indian truck maker Mahindra to launch its compact clean diesel pickup trucks in the U.S.

GV USA and Mahindra are fighting in arbitration and in U.S. federal court over repeated delays getting Mahindra's clean-diesel pickup certified for sale in the U.S.

In the past two months, Mahindra has issued two press releases stating that its relationship with GV USA has "expired" while Global Vehicles says Mahindra took unfair advantage of an escape clause in its contract to terminate its relationship with GV USA after the trucks received emissions certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Yesterday, Mahindra released a new statement on its corporate website that said it was GV USA that had let the escape clause in their distribution contract lapse.

If Mahindra accepts the order, GV USA said the first TR20 and TR40 pickups will be delivered to dealers in the Southeast, followed by other regions over the next eight months. First-year sales volume could reach 30,000 units.

GV USA also said that the company and the approximately 350 Mahindra dealers it recruited in 49 states have invested almost $100 million to bring Mahindra's trucks to the U.S.

Mahindra TR-Series will be offered in two cab configurations: a two-door regular cab and a four-door crew cab. Both will use a slightly modified version of Mahindra's mHawk 2.2-liter inline-four-cylinder diesel engine that uses diesel exhaust fluid (urea) selective catalytic reduction to maintain emissions compliance. It's expected to have fuel economy ratings as high as 30 mpg and 1.3-ton hauling capability. Pricing is expected to start around $22,000.

[Source: Global Vehicles USA]

[Maddmatt]

GV USA is going to attempt to place an order with M&M Mahindra today for $35 million dollars worth of trucks. This should be interesting. :costumed-smiley-007

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/09/global-vehicles-usa-to-attempt-35-million-order-for-mahindra-pickups.html

:lurk:

The continuing saga of John Perez - will be interesting to watch indeed.

Funny thing for me is, I only wanted the truck to succeed because I wanted the chance to test drive a Scorpio - because a 30mpg bio-diesel SUV with seats for 7 is something I have a use for.... would still rather have a crosslander though - I guess I need to let that one go after 10 years or so....

[haven]

I think the key phrase is "attempt to place" an order. M&M says that GV USA is no longer their partner in USA.

There's a press release on the M&M web site that says when the 3 year drop dead date passed, GV USA made no attempt to ask for an extension.

It seems obvious that both parties are trying to position themselves in the best light before their trial begins. At this point, it would seem that the best GV USA can hope for is a settlement that would be large enough that they can pay back the 300+ businessmen who paid GV USA to become M&M dealers.

[elcoyote]

News about Mahindra coming in December.

http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=687677

[dox]

News about Mahindra coming in December.

http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=687677

Thanks for the link... I wasn't aware of the warranty, so that was nice to read.


Carrying a four-year/60,000-mile bumper- to-bumper warranty, the retail price tag has yet to be determined.

[haven]

Mahindra and Mahindra sent that $35 million dollar order from GV USA to the shredder. M&M say that GV USA is a "former distributor" and the order is invalid. See you in court!

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/09/breaking-mahindra-rejects-35-million-truck-order-from-us-distributor.html

[dragogt]

so are they comeing to the US or not??

http://www.mahindrana.com/ says they've been cleared the EPA..

[Overland Hadley]

so are they comeing to the US or not??


Not anytime soon.

[dragogt]

Yeah, I was afraid of that...

[Bennyhana]

This was in today's USAtoday
http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2010-09-30-pickuptrucks30_ST_N.htm?loc=interstitialskip

[Ford Prefect]

Will it ever end!!!

I honestly think not. I have gotten excited about this a few times over the years. I seriously doubt they will ever come here.

Personally I really hope that the courts seriously stick it to the M&M folks. I fully understand that there are cultural differences at work here, but they need to learn that when they are dealing in a different culture it is rather important not to cross a line, which they have done (several times).

Just my two bits though.

If they ever do become available then I may still consider getting one.

[bajajoaquin]

Personally I really hope that the courts seriously stick it to the M&M folks. I fully understand that there are cultural differences at work here, but they need to learn that when they are dealing in a different culture it is rather important not to cross a line, which they have done (several times).



Really? I'm not sure they have done anything wrong. All we've heard is the press releases. Maybe they're a bit eager to use their opt-out clause. But doesn't the importer guy have a bit of a reputation for being shady?

I'm not defending one side or the other. I just haven't heard anything objective.

[Navman]

I moved back down to Nicaragua two weeks ago, and I'm digging the Mahindras Pik Ups that I've seen around town. Attached are a few shots I snapped of two around town yesterday.

They definitely look weird at first, but I think it is a style that is kind of like the 55 series LC... it grows on you, although a 3 inch suspension lift and an ARB face-lift definitely could do it wonders.

This country should be a good test market for them. I've yet to meet anyone who drives one, but when I do I'm going to ask the accumulated mileage and their opinion of the vehicle so far. If they can survive the tough environment (heat, rain, dust), terrible roads and typically negligent maintenance that is the norm here, then they could have a shot at being the poorman's Land Cruiser or Hilux.

Regards,


I just got back from Nicaragua yesterday and I saw a couple of Mahindras that turned my head. I didn't get a good, up-close look at either though. Our diesel Fortuner was impressive though.

[gary in ohio]

I received this from Global Vehicles USA, Inc regarding the Mahindra truck.
Looks like the same old, Coming SOON message we have been hearing for a while.


I know you are wondering when you will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of one of these amazing, authentic, robust, fuel-efficient trucks at a Mahindra dealer near you. While I cannot give you a firm answer on timing, I can tell you in my estimation, trucks will arrive in the spring of 2011.

Mahindra has applied for and received their EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certificate, which means the vehicles have passed emission requirements. They also filed with (NHTSA) National Highway Safety Administration, which handles US standards for safety.

[alosix]

Mahindra has applied for and received their EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certificate, which means the vehicles have passed emission requirements.

Wonder if we could just get them to send us drivetrains in the mean time :)

[CA-RJ]

This is now a pathetic joke.

[ben2go]

November 5,2010 I received the following email about the Mahindra trucks coming to the US.I can also provide a screen shot of the following email.

Good Morning Mahindra Truck Fans,
Congratulations. You are part of over 30,000 signed up to be the first to experience the hardworking Mahindra trucks.

I know you are wondering when you will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of one of these amazing, authentic, robust, fuel-efficient trucks at a Mahindra dealer near you. While I cannot give you a firm answer on timing, I can tell you in my estimation, trucks will arrive in the spring of 2011.

Mahindra has applied for and received their EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certificate, which means the vehicles have passed emission requirements. They also filed with (NHTSA) National Highway Safety Administration, which handles US standards for safety.

With these hurdles completed, it would seem production is imminent, but other factors may hinder the US launch. India’s car sales are on a dramatic trajectory upward. The sales pace combined with an industry wide parts shortage is impacting home market sales, which will have an affect on the United States introduction.

In closing, I know each of you anxiously await the arrival of the Mahindra trucks, and I am confident that you will see a launch announcement in the next few months.

If you haven't seen the Specsheet on the trucks yet, please click on the link below to see it.

Click here to view Specsheet (http://mahindrana.com/pdf/specsheet.pdf)

Or copy and place the following into your browser:

http://mahindrana.com/pdf/specsheet.pdf
Regards,

John A. Perez
CEO
Global Vehicles USA, Inc.
1720 Windward Concourse
Suite 400
Alpharetta, GA 30005

(770) 753-4441 (Office)
(770) 753-4420 (Fax)

www.mahindraNA.com (http://www.mahindrana.com/)

[dragogt]

I got the same thing..

[Hawkz]

I got the same email. Honestly, after the crap they pulled with the US Distributor they had a contract with, I'm not inclined to buy their truck no matter how good it is...

It's too bad too. This is the type of pickup I've been looking for. Hopefully the new Jeep pickup won't suck...

[Overland Hadley]

I Honestly, after the crap they pulled with the US Distributor they had a contract with, I'm not inclined to buy their truck no matter how good it is...


Somebody might know all the details, but I think the US distributor was not, how can I say this.... Well lets just say that it might not be Mahindra's fault.

Haven or other, do you have some details on his other dealings?

[ben2go]

Mahindra tried to by pass the contract they agreed to and go direct to dealerships.That's why they lawsuites ensued.

[AmericaOverland]

I got the same email. Honestly, after the crap they pulled with the US Distributor they had a contract with, I'm not inclined to buy their truck no matter how good it is...

It's too bad too. This is the type of pickup I've been looking for. Hopefully the new Jeep pickup won't suck...


What Jeep pickup are you talking about? I don't see anything on their web site.

[JeffRRC]

Jeep is supposed to build a truck very similar to the Gladiator cencept. Production is said to start next fall. Hopefully we will get a diesel but if not, at least we will have the 3.6 pentastar V6.

[Toyotero]

Jeep is supposed to build a truck very similar to the Gladiator cencept. Production is said to start next fall. Hopefully we will get a diesel but if not, at least we will have the 3.6 pentastar V6.

I wish they would build a CJ10 (http://www.4-the-love-of-jeeps.com/jeep-truck.html)again, for civilian sale...

[AmericaOverland]

I wish they would build a CJ10 (http://www.4-the-love-of-jeeps.com/jeep-truck.html)again, for civilian sale...

THAT... Would be my first pickup! That is how they're supposed to look!

:wings:

[ben2go]

Jeep is supposed to build a truck very similar to the Gladiator cencept. Production is said to start next fall. Hopefully we will get a diesel but if not, at least we will have the 3.6 pentastar V6.


I hope it's not a redesign of the failed Liberty diesel.



All the years I worked at a shop dedicated to Jeeps,I only saw one CJ10.Were those sent to other countries or just a short run for the armed services?

[Herbie]

I got the same email. Honestly, after the crap they pulled with the US Distributor they had a contract with, I'm not inclined to buy their truck no matter how good it is...


I feel it is important to note one thing: That email was FROM the US Distributor, Global Vehicles, USA, not from Mahindra & Mahindra (the actual manufacturer) directly. In essence they are trying to lay claim to the US market before they've even convinced Mahindra to sell them cars.

After all the crap GVUSA pulled the last time they tried to import those Czech SUVs, I can certainly understand that Mahindra want to be absolutely sure about who they're dealing with before agreeing to ship cars.

[Hawkz]

I am not familiar with any previous deals GVUSA may have had. I have read quite a bit on the current contract with Mahindra, and from what I have read it seems Mahindra stalled their emissions testing for the sole purpose of getting out of the GVUSA contract. I have read this several different places, so I believe it to be true. If this is not the case, feel free to post a link in Mahindra's defense.

[RubiconGeoff]

I am not familiar with any previous deals GVUSA may have had.

GVUSA was to import the Romanian ARO Crosslander (http://www.difflock.com/buyersguide/newcars/crosslander/index.shtml) SUV to the U.S., similar to their deal with Mahindra. For a variety of reasons, they eventually failed. I sure hope Mahindra doesn't face the same fate with GV.

http://www.difflock.com/buyersguide/newcars/crosslander/crosslander_main_pic.jpg

[ben2go]

GVUSA was to import the Romanian ARO Crosslander (http://www.difflock.com/buyersguide/newcars/crosslander/index.shtml) SUV to the U.S., similar to their deal with Mahindra. For a variety of reasons, they eventually failed. I sure hope Mahindra doesn't face the same fate with GV.

http://www.difflock.com/buyersguide/newcars/crosslander/crosslander_main_pic.jpg


I'd like to have that in a desert sand color. :smiley_drive:

[Herbie]

GVUSA was to import the Romanian ARO Crosslander (http://www.difflock.com/buyersguide/newcars/crosslander/index.shtml) SUV to the U.S., similar to their deal with Mahindra. For a variety of reasons, they eventually failed. I sure hope Mahindra doesn't face the same fate with GV.



The main difference between the Crosslander deal and the Mahindra deal is that I believe deposits were taken on the Crosslanders... and people got screwed out of those deposits. Leaves me feeling less-than-amiable towards GVUSA.

[Overland Hadley]

The main difference between the Crosslander deal and the Mahindra deal is that I believe deposits were taken on the Crosslanders... and people got screwed out of those deposits. Leaves me feeling less-than-amiable towards GVUSA.

x2

[AmericaOverland]

i'd like to have that in a desert sand color. :smiley_drive:

x 2!

[haven]

I read a couple of news items recently that saidnSouth Korea and USA have reached a new trade agreement. Among the points of the agreement is the phasing out of the 25% "chicken tax" tariff on pickup trucks imported from South Korea. This part of the trade package won't start taking effect for 8 years.

It turns out that Mahindra and Mahindra just purchased about 70% of Korea's bankrupt automaker, Ssangyong. M&M now has 8 years to get ready to sell Ssangyong pickups to buyers in USA.

[Storz]

Just watched "Slumdog Millionaire" again last night, anyone else notice at the end the main female lead is driving the Mahindra SUV, couple good shots of the interior etc. Anyways though it was pretty cool looking, would be an awesome rig if they make it reliable, safe and most of all available in the USA

[FreeManDan]

Did I mention in this tread that I saw a bunch of Mahindra diesel trucks in the green zone of Iraq? ....well I meant to post that, I never did take any pics, as I wasn't allowed to have a camera at my work area, but I rather preferred the Mitsubishi compact 4 door diesel, I hear they sell them in mexico... :sombrero:

[Christian P.]

Apparently EPA released the mpg numbers for the Mahindra truck : 19/21

:(

[DavidG]

Apparently EPA released the mpg numbers for the Mahindra truck : 19/21

:(

You have got to be kidding. How could they have misjudged the mpg by 10mpg? I had high hopes for this rig, even though the styling was funky. But now, sheesh, they are a joke. Can't wait to see what happens next.

[ben2go]

That is just $h!tty!Every where I read about this truck stated 30+ mpg.H3!!,I get 19/21 in my crappy 2001 Ranger with a 2.5L four banger.

[Storz]

Apparently EPA released the mpg numbers for the Mahindra truck : 19/21

:(

Wow what a disappointment. Does this mean that its actually going to be available here through? I know my TDI Jetta gets better MPG than the EPA estimates so there may still be hope!

[cwsqbm]

Apparently EPA released the mpg numbers for the Mahindra truck : 19/21

:(

It'd have to be a really crappy small diesel to get that kind of mileage. I'd wait for real world tests, if it ever makes it to market. Actually, I'd like to see a link to the source of this mileage - I can't find any news anywhere backing up that statement.

[Christian P.]

It'd have to be a really crappy small diesel to get that kind of mileage. I'd wait for real world tests, if it ever makes it to market. Actually, I'd like to see a link to the source of this mileage - I can't find any news anywhere backing up that statement.

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/2008selemodel1f.jsp?year=2011&make=Mahindra

http://mahindraplanet.blogspot.com/

http://jalopnik.com/#!5752247/bad-fuel-economy-news-for-mahindra

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2011/02/mahindra-tr40-rated-at-a-disappointing-1921-mpg.html

[haven]

The 19/21 mpg is for the 4x4 version. The rear wheel drive version will be a few mpg higher.

That said, this is a big disappointment. Diesel fuel is at least 10% more expensive than unleaded regular, so the cost per mile driven would be the same if you have a 4x4 truck with gas engine that gets 19 mpg. That includes all other mid-size 4x4s (except Nissan), and the Ford F150 4x4 with 3.7L V6.

The advantage the Mahindra has over these vehicles is greater payload capacity.

[vanroth]

Doesn't really surprise me since GV stated their intention was to go after the "upscale" market by only offering a slush box and no bare-bones model. I seriously thought of getting one until I read that.

I realize there is more $$ markup on luxury trucks, but who in their right mind would buy a Mahindra thinking they will get an upscale vehicle? I think their marketing folks missed the whole appeal of utilitarian BRIC vehicles.

I also wonder how much the EPA mandated emissions controls reduced the MPG.

[Navman]

Yeah, huge disappointment. I almost get that in the LR3. I had already crossed it off the list due to all of the drama but now this confirms it.

This vehicle will now "prove" that Americans don't want diesel when it doesn't sell very well.

[PirateMcGee]

20mpg is pathetic for a modern diesel vehicle that size........full size diesels can get better than that. Heck my 86 gas 4runner on 31's gets 24mpg (granted it has very little power).

[cwsqbm]

aside from the not so great mpg, there is no direct competitor, escpecially if it does sell for around $25K.

What is the cheapest diesel anything you can buy new? I doubt it is less than $30K

Like the VW TDI owner mentioned, diesels (for cars) often get an under estimated MPG spec while gassers often get an overestimated MPG specification.

I bet once they added the OBD system the MPG dropped. That is my guess.

If we were not required to have those systems in our vehicles, ALL vehicles on the road would be able to yeild higher MPG's.

With the crappy mileage, gas-motored trucks are direct competitors.

As for diesel anything, ignoring the $23k VW diesel cars, for that kind of money I'd buy a used full size diesel pickup. It may not be "new" but its also not built in India and supported by a group with a less than perfect record. I see this truck having the same problems that Yugo did - used is a better option.

[Rbertalotto]

My Dodge 2500 4X4 Cummins with a "Juice With Attitude" module has over 400HP and over 600 ft pounds of torque and gets 19mpg at 70mph.........And when you step on the "diesel"....Things happen real fast!

[huntsonora]

I personally talked with one of the guys test driving the truck around Denver and he said he was getting better than 30mpg. He had put a pile of miles on that truck and spoke favorably of it

[CA-RJ]

Anyone notice that mahindrana.com (http://www.mahindrana.com) is no longer working?

[ben2go]

Worked for me.

[dragogt]

since the epa or whoever has the mpg rating down 33% (or more) since originally reported, I wonder if the (assumed) added emissions equipment cuts down on pollution 33% with the added factor of having to consume that much more fuel? plus everything that goes along with making the extra fuel.

who knows what to believe these days?


on my recent dmv statement, I now supposedly have to smog my 2003 vw TDI.

If it turns out to not be a mistake, there is one less little reason to buy a diesel.

I'm guessing your in CA..

Any diesel there newer than (IIRC '97/ 8) has to smog'd...

[Bennyhana]

Anyone notice that mahindrana.com (http://www.mahindrana.com) is no longer working?

What is a mahindrana? :elkgrin:

this one works. http://www.mahindraautoworld.com/

[Navman]

The Mahindra drama continues. Or, does this mean it's dead for good?

[JamesDowning]

Sadly it appears to be continuing. Per the article, there will be a British arbitration hearing that will decide whether Mahindra will be forced to honor it's US deal.

However despite the issues with GV, Mahindra states it still plans to bring SUVs and trucks into the US as part of their global expansion plans.

http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110307/GENEVA/110309930


Until last summer, Mahindra was planning to enter the United States through an independent distributor, Global Vehicles U.S.A. Inc. of Atlanta. Global Vehicles CEO John Perez had spent four years assembling the U.S. dealer network to sell diesel-engine compact pickups from India.

But after years of waiting for the trucks, that partnership collapsed just days before the EPA certified Mahindra's pickup as meeting U.S. emissions standards.

The 350-dealer network is in limbo, waiting to hear a British arbitration panel's ruling on Global's request that Mahindra be forced to honor its U.S. deal with Global Vehicles and give the pickups to Global Vehicles' dealer network.

Dealers in the dark

The dealers say they remain in the dark about what will happen to their Mahindra franchises.

"I don't know whether this Ssangyong news changes anything for us because none of us know where we stand," said one would-be Mahindra dealer, Bud Robke, owner of Robke Automotive in Florence, Ky.

"One thing it does do is lend more credence to Global Vehicles' complaint that it has been jerked around by Mahindra on its contract."

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110307/GENEVA/110309930#ixzz1Hd6D56wk

[FreeManDan]

The "Bolero PikUp" gets a solid front axle (leaf springs with shackle in front), if this tin can ever gets here, do you think it might leave a little to be desired?

[SWITAWI]

Global Vehicles USA has already dropped their suit and has agreed to abide by the ruling of the abitration in an effort to move forward with this whole mess...

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2011/02/report-global-vehicles-usa-drops-us-lawsuit-against-mahindra.html

...and in the meantime Mahindra has purchased a controlling stake in a large Chinese manufacturer in an effort to further its own global road vehicle plans...

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-11-23/mahindra-buys-ssangyong-stake-for-377-million-adding-sales-outside-india.html

"Mahindra may use Ssangyong engines in pickups it plans to sell in the U.S. as the company works to pare its reliance on the Indian market. The automaker in August won approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to introduce vehicles in the country. A legal dispute with a distributor has disrupted the start of sales."

[haven]

Ssangyong Motor Co. is a Korean company, rather than Chinese.

[CA-RJ]

MahindraNA.com=Mahindra North America.


What is a mahindrana?
:elkgrin:

this one works. http://www.mahindraautoworld.com/

[FreeManDan]

This article from February claims the fuel economy in EPA tests was epic fail...
http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/daily-news/110207-Diesel-Powered-Compact-Pickup-May-Not-Come-to-U-S-/

[SWITAWI]

Wow... This whole thing has just gone from from bad to worse to worse-er.

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/angry-dealers-sue-mahindra/

"The dust-up between Indian automaker Mahindra and its jilted would-be American dealers is set to get a little nastier. According to Automotive News, several dealers have joined a lawsuit against their former partner that seeks both a refund for any fees paid to the truckmaker as well as punitive damages. One Jerry Ackerman is at the center of the suit. He paid $450,000 for three Mahindra franchises and now alleges that both Mahindra & Mahindra and Global Vehicles U.S.A. are in breach of contract. Ackerman's lawsuit is now seeking class action status.

Automotive News reports that the lawsuit could eventually represent as many as 350 dealers who signed up for franchises in the States. So far, around 45 dealers have shown interest in joining Ackerman's effort. Meanwhile, another 70 dealers recently met in Atlanta to discuss potential legal action against Mahindra. That lot has decided to file grievances against Mahindra with individual state motor vehicle agencies.

As you may recall, Mahindra originally contracted with Atlanta-based Global Vehicles U.S.A. to distribute its pickups in America, but later backed out of the deal. That left Global Vehicles U.S.A. and its dealers in a lurch. Global Vehicles U.S.A. initially filed suit against Mahindra but later dropped the effort.

The future prospects of Mahindra's diesel TR20 and TR40 pickups in North America remains uncertain."

[The Adam Blaster]

I'm very curious about something...

A guy that owns a dealership pays what appears to be $150,000 to Global USA to have the rights to sell Mahindra trucks in a certain market area. On the business side of things, wouldn't you think those dealers would sign some sort of contract with provisions to get their money back if this deal between Global and Mahindra & Mahindra falls through?
And where did all that money from all those dealers go? I'm sure some if not most went to Mahindra & Mahindra from Global, but wouldn't Global still have some of it?
Why aren't the dealers getting at least part of their money back from Global?

Seems pretty stinky all the way around...

[haven]

A couple of dealers are taking Mahindra and Global Vehicles to court.
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/angry-dealers-sue-mahindra/

[ben2go]

I gave up on these vehicles making it to the US soon after I posted this thread.

[dox]

Yeah, stick a fork in these things... they are done. I have been holding out hope for a few years on these.

Didn't happen.

Did see where Cummins built a Nissan Titan mule with a Turbo I4 diesel. :drool:

[gary in ohio]

Global Vehicle website is now into coming soon and USA mahindra site is now gone and forsale.... GVA screws up another 4x4 coming into the US

[Martinjmpr]

Anybody remember the Romanian ARO from about 1997-99? Same basic story.

Breaking into the US auto market is not an easy thing to do. Sooner or later one of the current companies will figure out a way to bring a small diesel into the US market, I think the hard part is going to be making a vehicle that is (a) powerful enough to please US consumers, (b) economical enough to justify the additional cost of a diesel and (c) able to pass US emissions (particularly in California.)

I think it's one of those "pick any two" type of situations: Make a vehicle that is powerful and passes emissions, and its fuel economy will be just as bad (or worse) than a gas vehicle (that of course burns cheaper fuel since diesel is anywhere from $0.20 - $0.80 more expensive in most US markets); Make it economical and emissions-compliant and it's slower than a VW bus, which makes it a non-starter with most US consumers; Make it powerful and economical and it won't pass emissions which means it can't be sold in the US.

As for who will bring a small diesel to the US, my money's on Nissan. Nissan seems to be 'hungry' in a way that Toyota and Honda are not. I guess it's like the old Avis rent-a-car "we're no. 2 so we try harder" mentality or something but Nissan does seem to be willing to take risks that other automakers won't.

[greg mgm]

If VW brought the Amarok to the US there would be an excellent chance of getting a diesel pick up...considering they already have diesels in the us. But I'm dreaming....

[Flagster]

More news...manufacture to begin in 2012 in USA for planned sale in 2013...put those pre-orders in soon...

http://mahindraplanet.blogspot.com/2011/12/revealed-us-mahindra-pickups-to-be-made.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

[98roamer]

78448

[Toyotero]

They might want to take care of this while they are at it.

Mahindra's US emission certificate to expire in Dec
http://business-standard.com/india/news/mahindras-us-emission-certificate-to-expire-in-dec/458697/

[JamesDowning]

More news...manufacture to begin in 2012 in USA for planned sale in 2013...put those pre-orders in soon...

http://mahindraplanet.blogspot.com/2011/12/revealed-us-mahindra-pickups-to-be-made.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

I find it hard to believe they could ramp up that fast. But we can hope.

Looks like their pickup has changed looks a bit, per that article.

[haven]

Until MahindraPlanet can tell us more about the source of their rumor, I'd say a deal between Navistar and Mahindra in USA is unlikely. Yes, I read that the two companies have a partnership to build engines and heavy trucks in India. But why would they need a mile-long plant to assemble Mahindra's pickups and tractors? The facility was formerly used to build railroad cars.

[timmy!!!!!!!]

It would make sense to build the plant in North Alabama though. There are several foreign auto makers with plants in the state and the fact that TVA is able provide cheap power for the plant makes it even more lucrative.

[ben2go]

In my mind it ain't gonna happen,until I see them at dealers or rolling down the highway.I have given up the hopes for that truck coming to the US.

[haven]

Mahindra & Mahindra just released a categorical denial that they will be building trucks in Alabama, with or without Navistar.

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/mahindras-u-s-plans-on-indefinite-hold-alabama-plant-denied/

[AmericaOverland]

This is posting #450 with nothing fruitful in the way of a truck being built for the US Market, kind of like the blown up Scout thread on another forum. Can we just lock this thread and forget about it?

[ben2go]

This is posting #450 with nothing fruitful in the way of a truck being built for the US Market, kind of like the blown up Scout thread on another forum. Can we just lock this thread and forget about it?

Lock?Hell,delete it totally.

[AmericaOverland]

Lock?Hell,delete it totally.

THAT is even better!

[haven]

But it hurts so good to talk about the chances to get a midsize diesel pickup with a 2500 lb carrying capacity.

[ben2go]

I wouldn't consider it a mid size.From my understanding,it's a little smaller all around that a ford ranger.Maybe a compact pick up.

[haven]

The Mahindra pickup sold elsewhere is longer than a Tacoma, with close to double the cargo capacity. That's quite a bit larger than the old USA Ranger. The Mahindra's width is about the same as the Ranger, and narrower than the Tacoma.

2009 Mahindra Appalachian Regular cab 4x4
Wheel base.....119.7 in
overall length.....200.7 in
width.....69.7 in
bed length.....89 in
payload.....2200? 2600? lbs

2008 Toyota Tacoma Regular cab 4x4
Wheel base.....110.0 inches
overall length.....190.4 in
width.....74.6 in
bed length.....73.5 in
payload.....1485 lbs

[Mukiwa]

I saw a few of these in South Africa last year.. They look awsome in 4 door!

[ben2go]

The Mahindra pickup sold elsewhere is longer than a Tacoma, with close to double the cargo capacity. That's quite a bit larger than the old USA Ranger. The Mahindra's width is about the same as the Ranger, and narrower than the Tacoma.

2009 Mahindra Appalachian Regular cab 4x4
Wheel base.....119.7 in
overall length.....200.7 in
width.....69.7 in
bed length.....89 in
payload.....2200? 2600? lbs

2008 Toyota Tacoma Regular cab 4x4
Wheel base.....110.0 inches
overall length.....190.4 in
width.....74.6 in
bed length.....73.5 in
payload.....1485 lbs

But the crew cab is about the same as the Ranger's.I don't see many regular cabs selling well except as fleet vehicles.

[haven]

I guess i misunderstood. You're talking about the global Ford Ranger, not the truck sold in USA. I don't think Ford ever sold a four door Ranger in USA. In that case, yes, the Mahindra is similar in size to the made-in-Thailand Ranger, and all the other global models like the Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi Triton, and Nissan Navara. All are available with "metric ton" carrying capacity, 2200 lbs or more.

[ben2go]

I guess i misunderstood. You're talking about the global Ford Ranger, not the truck sold in USA. I don't think Ford ever sold a four door Ranger in USA. In that case, yes, the Mahindra is similar in size to the made-in-Thailand Ranger, and all the other global models like the Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi Triton, and Nissan Navara. All are available with "metric ton" carrying capacity, 2200 lbs or more.


Well yes and no.I was speaking of the USA 4 door ranger, but it's not a true crew/quad cab.

[Flagster]

I can't imagine having that payload in a "small, compact, midsize, little..." whatever you want to call it truck...2200lbs is >50% better than my Tacoma double cab 4x4... I thought I read somewhere that the global ranger has a 2500lb payload:Wow1:

[haven]

That's right. The global "midsize" pickups like Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navarra, and Mitsubishi Triton are available with payloads that exceed 1000 kg, aka a "metric ton." That's 2200 lbs. In many countries, there are no "full size" American style pickups sold. These "midsize" trucks do the job that an F150 might do in USA. I think this explains why Ford doesn't want to import the new Ranger to USA. It wouldn't make sense to sell two trucks with similar specs.

With new fuel economy and emissions standards comjng to trucks soon, we'll see more changes to trucks than have happened jn the last 100 years. Manufacturers are considering smaller, lighter trucks based on car chassis as the entry level models. Trucks with larger payload will see electric-diesel hybrid drivetrains and other high tech gadgets to deliver performance with reduced fuel consumption.

[SnowDozerCJ5]

lighter and based on car chassis like the Chevy El Camino, Ford Ranchero, Dodge Rampage, Subaru Baja, and Jeep Comanche?
ford transit pickup?

[Christian P.]

Latest video from Brazil. Don't think we are missing much.


http://youtu.be/DmSLwAuZddE