Mahindra 4x4 pickup [Archive] - Expedition Portal

haven

06-26-2007, 02:44 AM

If you're looking for a diesel powered 4x4
small pickup, it will probably come from
India before it does from Tokyo or Detroit.

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

Mahindra is an Indian manufacturing company
that is one of the world's largest makers
of farm tractors. Mahindra began in the
late 1940's assembling Willys Jeeps from
knock-down kits.

Some features expected in the new truck:

good:
2.2L 4 cylinder turbo-diesel
300 lb ft torque
shift on the fly four wheel drive
6 speed auto trans
120 inch wheelbase
fully boxed frame
7.5 ft bed
4 year, 60,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty

not so good:
IFS
torsion bar front suspension

The plan is to introduce Mahindra vehicles to
USA in late 2008 or early 2009. A dealer network
is being constructed now. Somehow, the
new diesel emissions regulations are not
considered an issue.

Price for the standard cab pickup is expected to be
around $20,000. The rapidly sinking value of the
dollar may change this price, however.

Chip Haven

Scott Brady

06-26-2007, 03:56 AM

I think this is very encouraging news. I am going to try to get my hands on one as soon as they are available.

The BN Guy

06-26-2007, 03:23 PM

I've read some articles in A4WD about those Indian vehicles. Or were they Thai...don't remember. They do offer an affordable platform option.

Incusus

06-26-2007, 05:17 PM

seems familiar... http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3201 :)

I love the idea of a smaller diesel in a fullsize, and that looong bed. good stuff.

dieselcruiserhead

06-26-2007, 07:30 PM

300 ft/lbs sounds great..

haven

06-26-2007, 08:37 PM

The more I think about the torque rating, the more I'm convinced that the guys writing the news item got it wrong. It's more likely to be 300 newton-meters, or 222 lb-ft of torque.

Mahindra recently started selling the truck in Australia with a 2.5L four cylinder turbo-diesel. This model, called the "Pik-Up," has 247 N-M torque, or 182 lb-ft.

Here's a better photo of the Pik-Up

http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/pikup_i0x5526-800x600.jpg

Winky

06-26-2007, 11:46 PM

I am going to ignore your logic and interject my own..... 300ftlbs:chowtime:

Cheers
josh

Scott Brady

06-27-2007, 01:03 AM

Love the bed tie-downs... mild lift and 235/85's? :chowtime:

preacherman

07-06-2007, 02:25 PM

I bumped into one of their 4 door models in Africa back in Jan. It looked alot like a defender110 that mated with a landcruiser 70. I gave it the once over and was impressed. I will see if I can round up any pics...

Scott Brady

07-06-2007, 02:28 PM

It looked alot like a defender110 that mated with a landcruiser 70.

Sounds like a great start to me :wings:

gary in ohio

07-06-2007, 09:29 PM

And most of all its got some style that is lacking in most of the other US bound vehicles\. So much of the junk we have now has been researched, consumer approved to appeal to the masses that everything looks the same.

Saw a new ford setting next to a new Jaguar and couldnt tell the difference.

1leglance

07-06-2007, 10:27 PM

if I could get it in a 4door with a bed or big wagon I would buy it right away...I love diesel and my 16yr old would like to upgrade from his 80's MB 300D turbo...make a mini expo rig for him to follow my FJC,,,
I wonder how long before the aftermarket would start making parts...I would think for the first yr or 2 you would have to custom fab bumpers, skids, rock rails, and such...still not a bad deal if the price is +/- 20k

flyingwil

07-06-2007, 11:15 PM

I do like them! Like mentioned I wonder about the aftermarket support? May just go down to tractor supply and buy some coilovers! LOL

http://network.news.com.au/image/0,10114,5257342,00.jpg

http://www.wheels24.co.za/Images/Photos/200604181630102006ScorpioDC.jpg

http://images.eliance.co.za/MT_Images/General/106430_3.jpg

http://images.eliance.co.za/MT_Images/General/106429_2.jpg

1leglance

07-07-2007, 02:51 AM

great pics...
I am buying that 4dr diesel as soon as it hits the USA unless I hear terrible things...
I would be happy to help eval anything the aftermarket thinks of making as I am sure front bumper with winch, skids, rear bumper with swing out, rear rack with storage, and more will all be some of my first mods...
Even if it doesn't work out the best, I hope it will encourage other makers to get small diesels into this market.
Of course a Toyota diesel (other than Tundra) would be my next purchase if it ever happen...doubt it anytime soon....so I guess it will be an Indian Truck in the Southwest.
enjoy
1leglance

Sleeping Dog

07-19-2007, 02:18 AM

I've been thinking about a post bemoaning the disappearance of compact pickups in the US so this is good news. Oh for it to have a decent payload rating, say 2000#.

haven

07-20-2007, 09:48 PM

The folks at Mahindra must be closely watching to see if Ford discontinues manufacture of the Ranger pickup in USA.

The plant that makes the Ranger is due to close next year. Ford sells close to 100,000 Rangers each year, so at first glance it looks like Ford should move Ranger production to some other plant. But the Ranger sold in USA is a decade-old design, much in need of an update, and Ford has no spare cash.

In addition, the Ranger isn't that much cheaper than a stripped F150. It would be a lot easier to move the Ranger nameplate over to the bottom end of the F150 line.

Ford has an interesting option: Import pickups from the Mazda plant in Thailand. Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Toyota all produce modern, turbodiesel powered pickups in Thailand, for distribution throughout Asia and Africa. Ford sells re-badged Mazdas in these markets.

Chip Haven

DaveInDenver

07-20-2007, 09:53 PM

Ford has an interesting option: Import pickups from the Mazda plant in Thailand. Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Toyota all produce modern, turbodiesel powered pickups in Thailand, for distribution throughout Asia and Africa. Ford sells re-badged Mazdas in these markets.

So the Mazda pickup sold here is not the same as sold overseas? It looked so much like the Ranger that I assumed they were the same truck and for that reason I'd sort of written off Mazda pickups as an option. Or am I confused and the Mazda = Ford only here in the USA and the rest of the world gets a regular Mazda pickup that differs from the Ranger?

Nuclear Redneck

07-21-2007, 02:29 AM

Here the Mazda is made by Ford. Overseas, the Ford compact trucks are made by Mazda and sold by Ford.

Simple, no?

DaveInDenver

07-21-2007, 11:54 AM

Simple, no?
No, I do understand. My apologies for not following close enough, I'm not really a 'car guy' and didn't realize that a Ford Ranger in the USA is actually based on a different platform from a Ford Ranger someplace else. For example, Toyota named the USA truck the Tacoma and left the world truck as Hilux so that thick headed nincompoops like me aren't confused.

jrsteffes

07-21-2007, 01:33 PM

A link to the US site:

http://www.gv-usa.com/legal.php

Jason Steffes

Nuclear Redneck

07-21-2007, 08:51 PM

cruiser guy

07-21-2007, 11:04 PM

Jonathan Hanson

08-01-2007, 01:08 AM

I second Scott's comment on the nice, simple, exterior tie-downs. I miss those things.

I also miss nice, simple, compact pickups of nimble size, reasonable capacity, high reliability, and good economy. A new Tacoma that gets 17 mpg on premium fuel is not my idea of economical.

It would be ironic if it took an East Indian company to introduce something this sensible to the U.S. market. But good on 'em if they do. I'd drive it.

cruiser guy

08-01-2007, 01:22 AM

I also miss nice, simple, compact pickups of nimble size, reasonable capacity, high reliability, and good economy. A new Tacoma that gets 17 mpg on premium fuel is not my idea of economical.

It would be ironic if it took an East Indian company to introduce something this sensible to the U.S. market. But good on 'em if they do. I'd drive it.

The import pickups of years ago are no longer offered because folks in Canada and the states still have the retarded "bigger is better" idea. Until folks get a grip and figure out that bigger is NOT always better we won't see smaller more reasonable sized vehicles. Here in Central America there are not many folks who'd be interested in buying a full size truck, even for what we'd consider a good price, but you can sell a compact fuel efficient truck VERY easily.

btw: I haven't seen any Mahindra pickups here yet.

Martinjmpr

08-01-2007, 04:55 AM

No, I do understand. My apologies for not following close enough, I'm not really a 'car guy' and didn't realize that a Ford Ranger in the USA is actually based on a different platform from a Ford Ranger someplace else. For example, Toyota named the USA truck the Tacoma and left the world truck as Hilux so that thick headed nincompoops like me aren't confused.

It is the dreaded "chicken tax" that goes back to the late 70's or early 80's and is still on the books.

Imported trucks are subjected to a punitive 25% tax. That's why the first Japanese vehicles assembled in the US were trucks. Mazda, Isuzu and Mitsubishi all sell (or used to sell) rebadged American trucks in the US market (Ford Ranger, Chevy S10 and Dodge Dakota, respectively.) The reason the Mazda looks like a Ford Ranger is because they are the same vehicle with just a few cosmetic differences. By making the truck in the US, they avoid the tax. It's also why the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier are made in the US.

That's one reason I'm not holding my breath for the Mahindra. Unless the Chicken Tax is repealed, it will be almost impossible for anyone to break into the US truck market and still make a profit.

(I think it's called the chicken tax because it is a retaliation for some other countries taxing chicken exports from the US.)

Michael Slade

08-01-2007, 04:58 AM

Sounds like a great start to me :wings:

I'll take one engine to go please...

Sleeping Dog

08-07-2007, 12:58 PM

Saw this article (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/08/06/more-details-regarding-mahindras-upcoming-diesel-vehicles-in-am/)today suggesting importation in 2009 with prices starting in the $20Ks.

If the quality is decent it will be sweet.

Jim

haven

08-14-2007, 08:28 AM

Pickuptruck.com says 2009 is the year Mahindra will be introduced. The vehicles will be imported from India, despite the 25% import tax.
http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/news/mahindra/indiakorea.html

The Mahindra USA web site has a few more details about the trucks. Click on the images of the vehicles to download a PDF with some specs.
http://www.gv-usa.com/vehicle-info.php

taco2go

08-14-2007, 03:49 PM

Dig the 'knarly' light bar on the EX ;)

haven

08-15-2007, 12:58 AM

nice and clear, from Mahindra, via TruckTrend.com

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/mahindra1.jpg

Truck Trend says 2.2L turbodiesel with 300 lb-ft of torque,
six speed auto trans, gear driven transfer case, torsion bar
front suspension

Chip Haven

Spikepretorius

08-15-2007, 05:00 AM

The Mahindra is quite common here in SA. Been here for some time.
They come in two versions. The one in the pics here is called the Scorpio and is considered the "upmarket" one. It is also available as a station wagon.

There's a cheaper utility version which looks similar to the very old Cruiser trucks.(Bolero)

The big market for them here is with the farmers who can't afford a real Cruiser.

They are considered el cheapo workhorses.

Check http://www.mahindra.co.za/

flyingwil

08-15-2007, 05:48 AM

Dig the 'knarly' light bar on the EX ;)
:hehe: I caught that one too.

haven

09-06-2007, 03:22 AM

The pickuptruck.com web site has an interview with the president of Global Vehicles USA, the company that will import the Mahindra pickup. Highlights from the interview are below.
Chip Haven

---------------

http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/stories/mahindra/jperez.html

target is 400 dealers with units for sale in the first quarter of 2009
(that's about 18 months from now)

lineup will include 2 door and 4 door pickups, plus an SUV

prices to start in the low $20,000 range

all units will be powered by 4 cyl. diesel, 6 speed auto trans

locking differential (standard? optional?)

emissions control will include urea injection to reduce NOx

front suspension will be independent

cargo capacity will be greater than 1,000 lbs

warranty will be 4 year, 60,000 miles bumper to bumper

may offer free maintenance during warranty period

special orders possible, will take 3-4 months to deliver

elcoyote

10-04-2007, 09:18 PM

Here's the latest on the Mahindra from the President of Global

http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/stories/mahindra/jperez.html

Nullifier

10-04-2007, 10:39 PM

That all sounds good to me but 2K9! Damn hurry up already.

LaOutbackTrail

10-04-2007, 11:25 PM

gary in ohio

10-05-2007, 03:26 AM

I am just happy to see something that doesn't look like every other box on the market. I have been vehicle shopping and looking down a row of cars, you can tell the difference between a new jag or ford, Every sedan looks the same, the echono boxes look the same, the high end look the same. Pickups forget it, rounded edges or the new sharpe edge stealth look that dodge/jeep seems to be following. I am trying to hold out till 09 ti get one, I just hope they dont Americanize it to much.

Martinjmpr

10-05-2007, 05:04 PM

Remember that when mini trucks first hit the US in the mid 60's, gas was still around a quarter a gallon and people thought these weird little trucks would never sell.

If they can keep the price competitively low, they could be a real contender. My guess is that they'll start in a small market (maybe California, since so many automotive trends begin there) and move slowly outward.

Scenic WonderRunner

10-06-2007, 12:57 AM

My first mod..............

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/Mahindra.jpg

brdhntr

12-02-2007, 03:19 AM

To bad that Jeep declined to build the Gladiator. They could already be in the market grabbing share.

kellymoe

12-13-2007, 09:48 PM

The distributor John Perez was also the distrubutor of the ill fated Crosslander. Do a google on Crosslander and all th eformer dealers or many of them are now the new dealers for Mahindra. Hope this does better than Crosslander.

24HOURSOFNEVADA

12-13-2007, 10:45 PM

I'd really give one a strong consideration. Looks like it's exactly what I've been wanting. A small diesel, crewcab.

haven

12-26-2007, 06:01 AM

Mahindra is releasing a new diesel engine for their Scorpio SUV in India.. Called M-Hawk, it's a 2.2L turbodiesel rated at 120 bhp and 214 ft lbs (290 Nm). These numbers are 5% better than the old 2.6L turbodiesel, while achieving 10% better fuel mileage.

Mahindra will exhibit the new engine and vehicle at Indian auto shows this January. It's likely the new vehicle will be similar to the model Mahindra will send to USA in 2009.

Chip Haven

haven

02-24-2008, 08:31 PM

Mahindra started importing its pickup and SUV models to Australia in mid-2007. The Australian version of the Mahindra is called the "Pik-Up." The web site is http://www.mahindrapikup.com.au

The specs of the Australian model are similar to those recently available from the Global Vehicles - USA web site.

2009 Mahindra Two-Door Truck -- U.S. Specifications

POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS
Engine.....4 Cylinder Common Rail Diesel
Drivetrain.....Front Engine, 4WD/2WD
Transmission.....6-speed Automatic
Wheel base.....119.7 inches
Single cab bed length.....7.5 ft
Ground Clearance.....8.3 inches
Suspension
Front.....Independent Torsion with Stabilizer Bar
Rear.....Multilink, Coil Spring
Fuel Capacity.....21.1 gallons
Wheel.....16 x 6.5J
Tires.....P245/75R16

The crew cab version of the truck uses the same wheelbase, and shorten the bed to 59 inches to make room for the back seat.

INTERIOR
Seating.....2
Stereo.....CD/MP3 Player with Aux Input
Driver Controls.....Power Windows w/Locks; Keyless Entry
Climate Controls.....Air Conditioning and Heat

SAFETY
Airbags.....Front Smart/Dual Stage System
Brakes.....4 Wheel Disc with ABS
Handling.....Electronic Stability Control

There are a few significant differences between the USA and Australian models. First, the USA model will use a newly designed 2.2L turbodiesel that can meet our emissions standards. The USA model will have a 6 speed automatic only, no manual transmission. The USA specs list 4 wheel disc brakes, while the Australian version has the typical disc/drum brake setup.

The interior of the USA truck will be different than Mahindra models elsewhere. The interior is designed by Lear, a company that has designed interiors for other USA auto manufacturers. (So expect XXL-size seats and lots of cupholders.)

Down Under, the Pik-Up has a standard limited slip rear differential, which will probably be included in the USA model.

The Australian model has a payload of 2200 lbs. That's 400 lbs less than the payload that Global Vehicles USA talks about in this article
http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/news/mahindra/dieselhybridandmore.html

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

The projected starting price for the Mahindra pickup may be a problem. The articles I've read state $22,000 for a rear wheel drive model, maybe $25,000 for a 4x4 single cab. The base Tacoma regular cab has an MSRP of less than $15,000.

Maybe a more realistic comparison: The Tacoma Double Cab 4x4 with 6 cylinder engine and automatic transmission has an MSRP of $25,000. The top of the line Mahindra, with double cab, 4x4, diesel engine and auto trans is expected to cost about $29,000.

The Toyota 6 cylinder gets 20 MPG (downhill with a tailwind). The Mahindra has a 600 lb greater payload capacity, and is supposed to return 30+ MPG.

But is that enough to justify paying an extra $4000 for the Mahindra?

Chip Haven

98sr5

02-24-2008, 09:28 PM

no stick and that price is crazy for what you get lost my interest

haven

02-26-2008, 06:15 PM

The 7.5 foot bed length and 2200 lb cargo capacity of the Mahindra would work with larger Four Wheel Camper models like the Grandby and Ranger. That would get you on the road with a 30 mpg diesel powered 4x4 with decent rough road capability and an expedition-proven low-profile camper for about $45,000.

Not bad for new equipment at today's prices.

Chip Haven

CA-RJ

03-01-2008, 10:50 PM

The pricing for a Tacoma Regular Cab 4x4 is more like $20k, which is more in line with the Mahindra. I do think a diesel regular cab 4x4 is really cool though. I'd probably wait a couple of years to see what reliability and parts availability are. I'm probably one of the few here who love regular cab trucks though. The prospective fuel mileage is pretty exciting as well. 21.1 gallons x 35 mph = 738.5 miles a tank! It would cost me $120 to fill my 4Runner twice and it would only go about 600 miles. Even if diesel gets to $4 a gallon it would only cost $84 to fill the tank. I like that kind of savings!

haven

04-11-2008, 12:21 AM

FEV, a USA engineering firm working with Mahindra and Mahindra, has confirmed that a prototype of the Mahindra 4x4 diesel hybrid will make an appearance at the SAE World Congress April 14 in Detroit. The truck, a Scorpio SUV, will be in the FEV booth.

The electric motor produces about 200 lb-ft of torque, so it's capable of propelling the truck for short distances with the diesel motor shut off.

No announcement has been made about the price of the hybrid option, but the CEO of the company that will import the Mahindra said to expect a price around $5000 extra. That will push the price of the vehicle up close to $30,000.

Chip Haven

CA-RJ

04-11-2008, 02:16 AM

Any word on what the expected fuel mileage will be?

Martinjmpr

04-11-2008, 02:44 PM

Some of these MPG estimates seem wildly optimistic.

My 1985 Toyota 4x4 could get 25mpg on a pretty regular basis. Of course it was:

- 5 speed manual tranny
- Regular cab
- Short Bed
- It did have a shell, but nothing else in the bed
- Very thin, poorly padded bench seat
- No AC
- No airbags
- No IFS (I know this is considered good by some people but not me)
- No power steering!
- Small 15" wheels and tires (not sure of the size, maybe 215/70R15?)

The sheetmetal was thin and it had the carbureted 22r engine which made something like 110hp (I think.) It was pretty slow going up the hills!

Like it or not, people have come to expect a lot more from trucks. Besides the federally mandated stuff like air bags and side impact door beams, people expect all vehicles now to have AC, power steering, comfy seats and to be big enough to haul around our fat American butts. I just don't see how you can get that and still get north of 30mpg, not with a 4wd, anyway. Even with a 2.5l TDI, I wouldn't expect better than 26-29mpg in normal use. And then you have to factor in the extra cost of diesel fuel, which has a price premium of $0.30 to $0.60 per gallon from what I've seen.

If they can do it, power to them. They could start a revolution in the American car industry. But I'm very skeptical.

haven

04-18-2008, 04:09 PM

The vehicle shown at the SAE conference was the Scorpio SUV, rather than the pickup. The hybrid is supposed to get better than 30 mpg in the city, the standard pickup around 25 mpg.

The SUV is very similar in dimensions and power to the Land Cruiser 62:

Mahindra Scorpio Toyota Land Cruiser 62

wheelbase 106 108
width 72 71
length 177 184
height 78 69

GVWR 5754 ??
curb weight 4487
turning circle 37 41

engine 2.2L diesel 4.0L I6 gas
hp 140 155
ft lb 275 220

tires P 235/70 R 16 P 225/75 R 15

CA-RJ

04-21-2008, 08:33 PM

Really, only 25 mpg for the truck? That's dissapointing! It doesn't really make it worth the extra cost does it?

madizell

04-22-2008, 04:12 AM

My Frontier, which cost $31K, gets only 16 to 17mpg. 25 starts to sound fair to me.

CA-RJ

04-22-2008, 05:42 PM

Yeah, but the regular cab 4x4 is supposed to start at $25k. I can get a Tacoma for $20k that's supposed to get 21 mpg. $5k more for a truck that only gets 4 mpg better is somewhat iffy to me. I'll still have to drive the Mahinda and see if it's worth $5k more.

Spikepretorius

04-23-2008, 06:16 AM

gary in ohio

04-23-2008, 02:03 PM

Don't bother with the Mahindra if it's expensive on your side of the pond.
We've had it for years and it's considered a cheapie alternative to other better things.
So if it's not cheap for you guys then forget it.

Its just vapor ware right now, still no "assembly plant " in Ohio yet. I had to much hope for the Crosslander and was let down, Until its on a lot and I can touch it, its doesnt exist for our market. I am still not sure how they are going to compete if they are not a budget trucks.You still have a hard sell for a diesel truck. Now most of us know the advantages but Diesel still has a negative image in the US to the masses, its running $.75 to $1 more a gallon right now plus the vehicle is an unknown from some tractor maker (again for the masses). If the MPG is not high enough to offset the fuel cost and the vehicle priced under the current market its going to die. 25mpg and $25K isnt going to sell to the masses and they cant sell enough to people on the board to make the venture worthwhile.

haven

05-08-2008, 05:48 PM

In an interview with Pickuptruck.com in February, the CEO of Global Vehicles USA, claimed that the payload of the new "Appalachian" pickup will be 2600 lbs. The standard cab model will have a 90 inch long bed, auto trans, 4x4 and limited slip differential. Price is supposed to start around $22,000 for this configuration.

Several magazine articles have reported the 2.2L MHawk diesel engine produces 300 lb-ft of torque. I think this is a mistake. The torque rating of the 2.2L MHawk in other countries is 300 newton meters, or about 225 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the VW 2.0L TDI diesel produces 236 lb-ft. So I expect a torque figure for the engine in USA trim to be below 250 lb-ft.

The Appalachian's EPA Mileage rating is unknown. The company importing the pickup to USA claims 30 to 35 mpg highway. The Scorpio SUV with the new 2.2L MHawk diesel is rated at 32 mpg highway in Europe. I expect an EPA rating closer to 25 mpg overall, maybe 28 mpg highway.

Even with these diminished expectations in the power and mileage departments, I think the Mahindra will be cheaper to buy and to operate than similar 4x4 trucks. The Mahindra will also have a longer bed, greater payload and longer warranty (save for Dodge's lifetime powertrain warranty).

Compare this to the Tacoma, which has a payload of 1485 lbs and bed length of 73.5 inches. A stripped Tacoma 4x4 standard cab with 4 cylinder engine and 5 speed costs about $20,000. A Tacoma equipped like the Mahindra, with V6, auto trans and limited slip differential costs $27,000. The V6 is rated at 266 lb-ft of torque and 20 mpg on the highway.

A stripped Tundra regular cab long bed with 4.7L V8, auto trans, 4x4 and limited slip differential costs about $28,500, but probably could be found with deep discounts today. Bed length is 97.6 inches and payload is 1780 lbs. The engine produces 313 lb-ft of torque and is rated at 16 mpg highway.

Chip Haven

kellymoe

05-10-2008, 03:22 PM

My wife and I are looking for a replacement for our 94 Discovery. I am going to wait for the Mahindra to come out before I buy a replacement. We have been looking at the CRV 2 wheel drive but if I can talk my wife into the 4 door pick up truck I would rather do that. Or even the Scorpion. I need something that gets better than 12 mpg. I'll be watching the Mahindra closely.

Redline

05-10-2008, 09:58 PM

I'm really hoping for a nice diesel in a Honda Pilot mini/Cross-Over SUV. If it can get 30+ MPG I would like it to replace my wife's Golf TDI if we like the vehicle.

I'm interested in the Mahindras too, my wife not necessarily.

My wife and I are looking for a replacement for our 94 Discovery. I am going to wait for the Mahindra to come out before I buy a replacement. We have been looking at the CRV 2 wheel drive but if I can talk my wife into the 4 door pick up truck I would rather do that. Or even the Scorpion. I need something that gets better than 12 mpg. I'll be watching the Mahindra closely.

kellymoe

05-11-2008, 05:23 AM

I'm really hoping for a nice diesel in a Honda Pilot mini/Cross-Over SUV. If it can get 30+ MPG I would like it to replace my wife's Golf TDI if we like the vehicle.

I'm interested in the Mahindras too, my wife not necessarily.

We have a Pilot now and it is a great car. The MPG sucks around town but redeems itself on the hwy. It's also great in the snow.

BiG BoB

06-08-2008, 06:54 AM

We had a company importing mahindra's back in the 90's in Aus. They were little jeep / sierra / samurai looking things

Never were very popular... The magazine reviews at the time did say that they were very capable offroad, however on road manners and comfort were lacking, as was safety.

I have a review of that model compared to a sierra (samurai) and a subaru 4wd wagon somewhere.

I'd steer well clear of these things!

For cheap (throw-a-way) dual cab 4wd's we use mitsubishi tritons.

Sean

haven

06-14-2008, 09:55 PM

Pickuptrucks.com has a couple of photos of the new Mahindra pickup available. Here's the link:
http://www.pickuptrucks.com/html/news/mahindra/mahindra-pickup-spied-looking-for-new-name.html

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

The specs reported are the same as before: 2.2L turbodiesel with close to 300 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed auto trans, 4x4 with limited slip, 2600 lb cargo capacity, 7.5 foot bed, USA delivery starting in Summer 2009.

Chip Haven

Redline

06-14-2008, 10:06 PM

I kind of like the look of that funky little pickup. It looks small and light, I can envision it getting pretty good MPG.

adrenaline503

06-14-2008, 10:22 PM

It looks like it might actually be made of metal!!

haven

06-15-2008, 01:51 AM

Looks in this case are deceiving. This isn't a 1970's Datsun pickup. The Mahindra is larger than a 2008 Tacoma in all dimensions except width.

The Mahindra is quite a bit smaller than today's behemoth "full-size" pickups.

Redline

06-15-2008, 02:12 AM

Interesting. Width is what caught my eye, looking a bit narrow like a Ford Ranger (not a bad thing).

My 4Runner and the new Tacoma are not narrow, but also quite comfortable too.

Looks in this case are deceiving. This isn't a 1970's Datsun pickup. The Mahindra is larger than a 2008 Tacoma in all dimensions except width.

The Mahindra is quite a bit smaller than today's behemoth "full-size" pickups.

upcruiser

06-15-2008, 02:49 AM

Anyone heard any recent updates as to retail? I'm loving the concept of this truck on a few different levels. I'm curious to hear some real world impressions of the US bound model.

haven

06-15-2008, 02:32 PM

I agree that the tall and narrow appearance of the truck is appealing. It's got that Land Cruiser 70 series appearance.

Here are two more photos I found online of the Mahindra pickup, this time from Australia. While the interior and engine will be different, the exterior of the North American model will look similar to these photos.

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

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

Dimensions of the Australian double cab are

overall length (inches): 200.7
overall width (inches): 69.7
overall height (inches): 76.5
ground clearance (inches): 8.3
wheelbase (inches): 119.7

curb to curb turning circle (feet): 41.3
approach angle (degrees): 39.0
departure angle (degrees): 21.0

Cargo area dimensions:
length (inches): 58.6
front width (inches): 59.8
width between arches (inches): 44.0
height (inches): 21.7

gross vehicle weight rating (lbs): 6945
curb weight (lbs): 4740
gross trailer weight braked (lbs): 5512
max payload (lbs): 2205

The Australian version of our EPA rates the Mahindra pickup fuel economy
at 9.9 L per 100 km, or 23.75 mpg. The Australian truck uses the older 2.5L
turbodiesel engine, so a rating of 25 mpg is possible with the new 2.2 L M-Hawk
engine.

This 4x4 double cab truck sells for a little more than $28,000 USD in Australia.

haven

06-15-2008, 03:08 PM

I found a news article reporting on Mahindra's entry into the automotive market in Paraguay in 2008. Mahindra now has truck sales operations in Brasil, Chile, Peru and Uruguay, and plans to start selling in Argentina.

Most of these vehicles will be imported from India. To serve the Brasilian market, Mahindra has a small scale assembly plant for the Scorpio SUV in Manaus, Brasil. This plant may expand to serve other MercoSur countries as sales increase.

Mahindra imports trucks and SUVs to Honduras and Costa Rica from its plant in India.

Redline

06-16-2008, 12:58 AM

The one side view picture of the Australian double cab makes the truck appear as if it has a long rear overhang.

CA-RJ

06-16-2008, 01:16 AM

Looks like it does. Almost T-100 like.

Redline

06-16-2008, 01:31 AM

Yep, I don't care for it. It helps keep the wheelbase short compared to the bed length, but rear overhang and 'tailswing' are negatives.

Looks like it does. Almost T-100 like.

CA-RJ

06-16-2008, 10:07 PM

Has anyone seen any info on what the bolt pattern for the wheels will be?

isaac

07-16-2008, 07:59 PM

So, maybe a bit off-topic, but I'm thinking out loud as an American living in India for even just a few weeks:

My overwhelming first impression is that the US will soon be totally f**&ked when it comes to manufacturing cars and trucks. Maybe we already are, and just haven't realized how irrelevant and geriatric we are yet. We are going to get our clocks cleaned by these folks, who are building wonderful vehicles of all shapes and sizes at very low costs. Sure they're missing what we'd now consider standard features... but as someone who grew up driving basic cars without fancy options packages (like no power anything, no AC, no auto transmissions etc) I am 100% comfortable in every vehicle I've been in over here.

So I think this nice little truck is going to be the first in about 50 vehicles we see in the US, eventually, that will just knock the Big Three for a loop. If they knew how to market and brand like Toyota does, it would get ugly (for us) pretty fast.

Don't get me wrong, this country is insane on 10 different levels. Gangs of teenagers and middle-aged women build modern 10 story office buildings BY HAND with NO POWER TOOLS. Which is pitiful, absurd, and impressive all at the same time. (When they figure out power tools, look out world.) But they can build wheeled vehicles at least as well as we do (net of our collapsing health care system and product quality quagmire - Detroit might do better if they weren't broke and stale) and the Indian industrialists are all partnered with the Japanese and European OEMs rather than competing with them. Good businesspeople. If they hire some ad agency like Arnold to position this stuff correctly, then never mind buying the truck: I'd just go spend the money buying stock in Mahindra. Or TATA, or Bajaj or Maruti/Suzuki etc.

My two cents. Your mileage may vary. Comments and disagreements appreciated.

Redline

07-16-2008, 08:20 PM

very interesting observations

So, maybe a bit off-topic, but I'm thinking out loud as an American living in India for even just a few weeks:

My overwhelming first impression is that the US will soon be totally f**&ked when it comes to manufacturing cars and trucks. Maybe we already are, and just haven't realized how irrelevant and geriatric we are yet. We are going to get our clocks cleaned by these folks, who are building wonderful vehicles of all shapes and sizes at very low costs. Sure they're missing what we'd now consider standard features... but as someone who grew up driving basic cars without fancy options packages (like no power anything, no AC, no auto transmissions etc) I am 100% comfortable in every vehicle I've been in over here.

So I think this nice little truck is going to be the first in about 50 vehicles we see in the US, eventually, that will just knock the Big Three for a loop. If they knew how to market and brand like Toyota does, it would get ugly (for us) pretty fast.

Don't get me wrong, this country is insane on 10 different levels. Gangs of teenagers and middle-aged women build modern 10 story office buildings BY HAND with NO POWER TOOLS. Which is pitiful, absurd, and impressive all at the same time. (When they figure out power tools, look out world.) But they can build wheeled vehicles at least as well as we do (net of our collapsing health care system and product quality quagmire - Detroit might do better if they weren't broke and stale) and the Indian industrialists are all partnered with the Japanese and European OEMs rather than competing with them. Good businesspeople. If they hire some ad agency like Arnold to position this stuff correctly, then never mind buying the truck: I'd just go spend the money buying stock in Mahindra. Or TATA, or Bajaj or Maruti/Suzuki etc.

My two cents. Your mileage may vary. Comments and disagreements appreciated.

adrenaline503

07-16-2008, 08:25 PM

I pretty much totally agree with the above post. When I was truck shopping I didn't see much value in the big three, even though they cost less than the used Frontier that I bought.

Not meaning to generalize, but Asian culture, including Indian culture (not that you can really group that country under a single culture) seems to be better prepared for competing in the global marketplace. Surely that has to do with the fact that they have been in the global market well before America was created. The drive to succeed, personal honor, accountability and sheer numbers of people to pool from will be a force that Detroit may not be able to compete with. It might be my perception but American car companies, and perhpas a few other industries expect that Americans should buy American regardless of the quality or value of the product. Couple this with more difficult economic times, and you have a situation where Americans are less likely to buy American unless the quailty and value match that of other nations. Don't get me wrong, American beer is still the best. Well, I guess that really isnt from here either.

Time will tell how readily Americans accept big ticket items from what is seen as the the 3rd world. Personally I wouldnt buy the first off the boat, but after a few had been on the road, I wouldnt have any issue buying one for patriotic reasons. I really wanted to buy an "American" brand, but the Power Wagon was out of my price range. Eventually, I see all these car companies being bought by forgein investors. I wonder how much stock in American car companies is held over seas, maybe those times are closer than we think.

haven

07-24-2008, 04:01 AM

A recent Business Week article says Global Vehicles USA, the importer of the Mahindra and Mahindra pickup, will start selling vehicles in early 2010. This is later than the mid-2009 date announced earlier this year.

http://www.businessweek.com/autos/autobeat/archives/2008/06/mahindra_sudden.html

There may be some misunderstanding. Global Vehicles said they would offer a diesel-electric hybrid pickup by early 2010. Maybe this is where Business Week got the date.

Still, it's discouraging that there have been no announcements or news releases from Global Vehicles since February. They didn't respond to email I sent them, either. Not a good sign!

gary in ohio

07-24-2008, 12:32 PM

Still, it's discouraging that there have been no announcements or news releases from Global Vehicles since February. They didn't respond to email I sent them, either. Not a good sign!

slipping dates, vague information,No updates. hmmm, Sound like a Romanian import GV tried a few years ago? I am still waiting for this magic Ohio plant to be announced. so far nothing.

Nullifier

07-24-2008, 02:22 PM

We are going to get our clocks cleaned by these folks, who are building wonderful vehicles of all shapes and sizes at very low costs. Sure they're missing what we'd now consider standard features... but as someone who grew up driving basic cars without fancy options packages (like no power anything, no AC, no auto transmissions etc) I am 100% comfortable in every vehicle I've been in over here.

That is a big part of our problem to many "standard" features. over the years it has been "sorry you can't get manual locks and windows anymore", "no sory no manual transmission", etc meanwhile the base price goes up 2500.00. Now I hear ford is dropping the manual on the superduty and that auto trans is like an extra 8k to the sticker. What the heck are they thinking.

:box:

Of course prograssive plants like in brazil where auto manufacturers can have a super plant where their suppliers build and place thier parts onto fords assembly line to save everyone on shipping, handling, inventory, accounting, and 100 others cost cutting things it is no wonder U.S. auto plants are closing. It is time for these Unions to look past making todays auto workers happy for a thing like no loss in vacation benefits, retirement options that won't be there etc, and start working with these auto manufacturers to ensure jobs for the future. THere is no reason why they can not negotiate a super plant here. Make a plan where workers will be guaranteed thier current package and show up at the same plant however they will be an employee of what ever part supplier they are building and installing parts for in the super assembly plant. It will split the burden of labor and save on alot of natural resources. THere is a reason why you go to a shell, taco bell, A&W gas station these days. Wake up America!!!

OK end of rant.

Incusus

07-24-2008, 08:05 PM

Maybe we already are, and just haven't realized how irrelevant and geriatric we are yet

Ding Ding Ding!!

We still have workers here at auto plants who assume they are "entitled" to a job just because they have managed to keep it for a number of years, and who consider it a personal attack and threaten to go ( or simply go) on strike when the company has to do *something* to save money or improve quality in order to stay in business.

In addition, US automakers saw the writing on the wall years ago; that the workforce in this country is overpaid and lazy compared to the rest of the world, and moved production to up and coming countries. Of course in doing so, they gave the people of those countries the means and knoledge to begin producing competetive vehicles.

I live in Dayton, Ohio. In the last 5-10 years I've watched the General Motors company spin off its local products and factories to other companies (Delphi, ITT Automotive, etc) when they saw the writing on the wall. As of right now, ITT took its motors and actuators engineering center from here and moved it to Germany and production to Juarez Mexico. Delphi has closed at least 5 major manufacturing facilities here, only one remains. Of the massive GM presence in this town 25 years ago, we now only have 1 truck and bus plant (slated to close in 2010 now that suv demand is down) and the joint DMax plant (an Isuzu/GM jv). Of 9 major factories and engineering and development centers, we will have one left in just a year or two.

(rant)
Also, before anyone jumps on me for "generalizing" about American factory workers, let me point out that not only have I personally worked at the ITT Automotive engineering facility and former Wisconsin Blvd Delphi chassis plant and seen the behavior of our "union backed" workforce firsthand, but my wife is a former Delphi employee (10 years, 3 plants), my brother in law is a former Delphi employee (7 years, 2 plants), my father in law worked for Delphi/GM for over 30 years so I've heard all about what goes on in those plants. Intentional work slowdowns, breaking machinery intentionally, and worse. I've heard all about how people making $26/hour (plus all the overtime they can take) complain about the company making cuts to stay open... I could tell you stories that would turn you green. (/end rant)

In Short...
I'm not at all suprised to see better and more innovative vehicles being built by people in other countries who actually have PRIDE in their work and follow a simple rule of work and get paid/work harder and get paid more.

haven

08-01-2008, 09:52 PM

I finally got a reply to a message I sent to Global Vehicles USA. I asked where the assembly plant would be located, and who is the dealer for southern Nevada.

"Thank you for your inquiry. We are not yet ready to announce the dealer
locations to the public. However, we will have dealers located in all 50
states including Nevada. The 2-door and 4-door trucks will be available in
late 2009. Please keep checking back to our website for updates.
--Global Vehicles U.S.A., Inc."

So it appears the introduction of Mahindra and Mahinrda models will be pushed back from summer 2009 to "late 2009." Maybe that Business Week article that talked about early 2010 is accurate after all.

Chip Haven

jcbrandon

08-02-2008, 01:09 AM

... I really wanted to buy an "American" brand, but the Power Wagon was out of my price range. Eventually, I see all these car companies being bought by forgein investors. I wonder how much stock in American car companies is held over seas, maybe those times are closer than we think.

The Power Wagon is (was) built in Mexico.
Just a small data point to add to the global car wars conversation.

Gurkha

08-02-2008, 03:50 AM

Brian McVickers

08-02-2008, 03:58 AM

Buy the Mahindra and Tata at your own peril...........it will not be a Toyota or Honda,in fact it wont' even be a Ford or GM by miles, you will pay for it in the long run, trust me when I say that as an ex end user.

Sounds like a pretty sweeping negative reveiw Gurkha. Would you be willing to provide more information, your experiences with Mahindra, specific examples and details?

Brian

Gurkha

08-02-2008, 07:19 AM

Sounds like a pretty sweeping negative reveiw Gurkha. Would you be willing to provide more information, your experiences with Mahindra, specific examples and details?

Brian

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=250021#post250021

CA-RJ

08-02-2008, 05:06 PM

Isn't Mahindra designing a new interior and engine for the US market?

Gurkha

08-03-2008, 01:19 AM

Mahindra will be giving you the same engine, chassis and suspension it sells here in India. The engine most likely to come would be 2.2L CRDI diesel.

CA-RJ

08-03-2008, 01:33 AM

"The US-spec version of the mHawk will have a power rating of close to 150hp (112kW) with approximately 300 lb ft of torque, pickuptruck.com claims. The mHawk was designed in cooperation with diesel engineering firms Bosch and AVL specifically with the American pick-up market in mind. The portal claims a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddles will be standard."

According to this quote from automotive world.com, the engine will be made for the US market. I doubt the emission standards in India and the US are the same.

Gurkha

08-03-2008, 02:10 AM

BS-III emissions standard in India emulate Euro-IV. The M-Hawk engine is 2.2L BOSCH provides the FI and AVL the know how for the engine. The current tranny used here is the Peugot BA10 modded. Most likely the newer one would be sourced from ZF India. Mahindra uses electronic 4x4 T case made by B&W.

Scofco

08-04-2008, 12:59 AM

Gurkha

08-04-2008, 02:06 AM

http://www.jmautodeler.com/shop/images/Oldsmobile%20logo.jpg

http://www.mahindra.com/Newsletters/M&M%20Newsletter%20Issue%203%202005/diamond/spotlight/Mahindra-Logo.jpg

Shame for the bad review, it wasn't the review I was hoping to read. :(

OTOH, Force Motors India makes G Wagen clone called Gurkha and in some respects even better than the original and more capable. Earlier it would come with the OM616 turbo and all MB power train, the latest one comes with OM611 and its exported to Germany and other parts of Europe. Why not send them some serious letters and they might consider marketing to US as well.

haven

08-25-2008, 11:46 PM

PickupTrucks.com is confirming that Global Vehicles USA will delay distribution of the Mahindra 4x4 pickup until late 2009.

The pickup specs continue to be
-- 2.2L 4 cylinder diesel engine
-- 145-150 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque.
-- six-speed automatic transmission
-- part-time 4x4
-- "more than" 30 mpg
-- 7.5 ft cargo box
-- 2,600-pound payload
-- 60,000-mile, four-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

I'd love to see this vehicle outfitted with a lightweight popup like
the Four Wheel Campers "Ranger" model.

The interesting diesel-electric hybrid shown last Spring has been
postponed, perhaps forever.

Chip Haven

http://www.pickuptrucks.com/html/news/mahindra/mahindra-pickup-delayed-until-late-2009.html

gary in ohio

08-26-2008, 02:15 AM

Delays, delays, same as the crosslander.

who is getting to drive these 25 trucks?

hermanmuller

09-25-2008, 12:10 PM

Hi there from sunny South Africa.

I own one of these Mahindra 4-seater vehicles, known as the Mahindra Scorpio Pikup Double Cab 4x4 here in South Africa. I am pleased as hell with the vehicle. It is rugged. The prices is very good (R209,900-00 = $26,237-00 USD). You get aircon, electric windows, 4 wheel drive (shift from inside, no getting out), power steering, large loadbox, large interior space (by South African standards) and a front loading CD Player/Radio combo with 4 speakers.

Engine is a 2.5 litre intercooled turbo diesel. It develops 74kW@3800rpm and 245Nm@1800rpm. It has a 5 speed Borg-Warner gearbox with 2H, 4H and 4L settings. Tyre size is 245/75R16 but 235/80R16 (Land Rover Defender) size will also fit easily. Fuel tank size is 80 litres. Ground Clearance is 210mm.

I tow an off-road trailer with the vehicle and it handles it quite well.

Some real world usage statistics of my particular vehicle (I bought mine new):

Average fuel consumption: 10.27 km/l or 9.8 l/100km
Consumption on last tank: 11.33 km/l or 8.83 l/100km
Average cost per litre of fuel: R8.00 or $1.00 per litre
Total distance covered: 57942 km
Total of fuel used: 5582.38 litres
Total fuel costs: R45,678-88 or $5,709.86 USD
Total costs (including services): R56,341.67 of $7,042.71 USD
Total running costs per km: 97c/km or R97.24 per 100km (12c per km or $12.15 per 100km USD)

I used a basic exchange rate of R8-00 to the USD for my calculations, so this may vary.

I don't know whether this is good or bad compared to other vehicles in the US, but it is pretty good for a vehicle in this category in South Africa.

Regards

Herman Muller

hermanmuller

09-25-2008, 12:28 PM

By the way.

You can download the brochure for the vehicle in South Africa from here http://www.mahindra.co.za/Modules_FE/layout1/downloads/PikUp.pdf. From what I understand, the engines might be different for the American market as your requirements are a bit different to the South African and Australian markets. South Africa and Australia seems to share specs on many vehicles that are sold in both countries.

Enjoy.

haven

09-25-2008, 01:38 PM

Welcome to ExPo, hermanmuller!

Here's a web site that converts liters per 100 km to miles per gallon.
Remember to specify which gallon you're interested in. The imperial
gallon is bigger than USA gallon.

http://www.sciencemadesimple.net/fuel_economy.php

9.8 liters per 100 km is about 24 miles per USA gallon.

I don't think there is a diesel truck sold in USA with 2500 lb capacity
that averages 24 mpg. The Dodge with Cummins diesel probably
comes closest, but I doubt that you can average better than 20mpg
using one for work. Driving the Dodge unloaded on the highway
with careful attention to the throttle might approach 24 mpg.

Chip Haven

gary in ohio

12-11-2008, 01:10 PM

With the current economic condition will we every see the Mahindra truck in the US. Financial plus diesel at 2x gas going to make for a hard sell to the masses.

CA-RJ

12-11-2008, 01:42 PM

The Mahindra USA website has been updated so it looks like they're still planing on releasing trucks here. The site says 2009.

Mahindra USA (http://www.mahindrana.com/)

mauricio_28

12-11-2008, 02:42 PM

The Mahindra competes in the Australian market against the Big Dogs: the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi Triton. But the Big Dogs handily and easily best it.

I posted this query earlier and it went unaddressed: What happens to the Mahindra when Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi sells their venerable trucks in the U.S. with diesel powerplants?

India is still India, and Japan remains Japan. If you could buy a diesel Tacoma or a diesel Frontier, would you rather buy a Mahindra in the U.S.? Once the Big Dogs enter the fray, the Mahindra will become the Yugo of the pickup trucks.

astn

12-12-2008, 02:36 AM

I don't think there is a diesel truck sold in USA with 2500 lb capacity that averages 24 mpg. The Dodge with Cummins diesel probably comes closest, but I doubt that you can average better than 20mpg using one for work. Driving the Dodge unloaded on the highway with careful attention to the throttle might approach 24 mpg.

I'm no scientist, but I think it's hard to compare U.S. diesel to "other places" diesel. We've been slowly robbing diesel fuel of most of it's advantages as we've transitioned to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD). Anecdotally, I know of few people who claim they lost 2-4 mpg now that they're running ULSD.

Austin

L8 APEKS

12-12-2008, 04:45 PM

Interesting...at this point, a 14mpg gas engine would be cheaper to drive than a 25mpg diesel.

However, it's hard to accurately predict and forecast fuel cost. In the long run, though, fuel will only get more expensive. So which one will climb at the faster rate? Gasoline or diesel? Figure that out, then buy the opposite one!

Gurkha

12-16-2008, 03:10 AM

Beowulf

12-16-2008, 04:59 PM

For me the cost per mile for Diesel vs Gasoline is not about the money. I just want to be able to drive farther per tank full.

4Rescue

12-16-2008, 09:11 PM

With the current economic condition will we every see the Mahindra truck in the US. Financial plus diesel at 2x gas going to make for a hard sell to the masses.
Maybe if there was a solid factual reson for why Diesel (which is simply an UNREFINED version of Gasoline) is selling for 2x the oprice of a more costly-to-produce Fuel??? Were getting hosed and I honestly feel like the oil co.'s are trying to make damn sure we don't all start getting good milage and low service intervals out of our vehicles. Diesel is the way of the future. Bio-Diesel is the miracle fuel we are all looking for but were going to play a game of scare the consumer so that we all keep looking at E85 (garbage if it distracts from Diesel's ok if it's developed right along with it I guess) and Electrics (the battereies cause more polution to make than a diesel truck causes in it's life span)

Cheers

Dave

For me the cost per mile for Diesel vs Gasoline is not about the money. I just want to be able to drive farther per tank full.Add to tha the added bonus of simplicity, Waterproof running, vastly extended service intervals, and the ability to run on a myriad of fuels and you have the best internal combustion cycle ever invented... Thank You Dr. Rudolph Diesel.

98roamer

12-16-2008, 09:25 PM

Exxon Mobil Corp. will spend more than $1 billion to boost output of “clean diesel” fuel at three oil refineries,

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/6166616.html

4Rescue

12-16-2008, 09:30 PM

Exxon Mobil Corp. will spend more than $1 billion to boost output of “clean diesel” fuel at three oil refineries,

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/6166616.html Well, that's good news. but in reality what I'm refering to is localized mainly to N. America. The rest of the world has embraced Diesel and realizes that it need's Diesel cars and trucks to survive... N. America is a playground with alot of SLOW children on it ;) and you can convince most Americans of ANYTHING, like the fact that Diesel fuel is a horibly poluting, noisy, loud, smoky, slow costly alternative to all those fine gasoline engines that the big 3offer...

Cheers

Dave

mauricio_28

12-16-2008, 11:44 PM

I suspect the high price of diesel in the U.S. can be attributed in part to high distribution costs. The fewer the gallons sold, the more it takes per gallon sold to distribute it.

Here in Indonesia I currently pay US$1.66 for a gallon of bio-diesel, and I get 24mpg on my Nissan Frontier Navara.

Gurkha

12-17-2008, 04:40 AM

For off roading, low maintenance, long life and good frugal engine with the right power curve for off road and on, nothing beats a diesel.

4Rescue

12-17-2008, 05:59 AM

On topic: I'd love to see Mahindra brig their trucks here so we'll at least have a small truck with a Diesel option. Maybe when people buy them Totota and Nissan see what's hapening they'll give us they're amazing "other continents" trucks... God I would kill for a D4D Hilux...

Unfortunately with the economy the way it is and the fact that they keep putting the date of release off, I kind of get the feeling that maybe this will go the way of the "crosslander" read; not gonna hapen. I will be happy if it does though. Dad needs to replace his Jeep with something and he REALLY wants a Diesel but's he not buying another Jeep to get it...

Cheers

Dave

I suspect the high price of diesel in the U.S. can be attributed in part to high distribution costs. The fewer the gallons sold, the more it takes per gallon sold to distribute it.

Here in Indonesia I currently pay US$1.66 for a gallon of bio-diesel, and I get 24mpg on my Nissan Frontier Navara.I would wager that the US alone (excluding Canada) uses more Diesel fuel in trucking and shipping than anyother country or continent for that matter... Just a thought, but we're REAL big users of fossil fuels here in the states, private vehicles are a smaller part of it than comercial rigs are. I suspe3ct that the reason Diesel fuel is so expensive is the same as why regular petrol is... Taxes: heating fuel (or Diesel without Red-dye) can be had for less than a dollar a gallon and our tractors run just fine on it... put it in your fuel tank, hit the road get pulled over, statey dips your tank and you've got trouble... Is it because there's any difference in heating oil and diesel??? No it's because that red dye says you've paid your road tax and that guy's salary... Follow the dollar and you'll find the reason for nearly anything that just doesn't seem right ;)

mauricio_28

12-17-2008, 06:25 AM

"You bought a Mah...Mahira, a what? You bought a lawmower or a car?!" will be the common response to your purchase. A year thereafter, Toyota brings out Tacoma, Nissan a diesel Frontier and Mitsubishi a diesel Triton, all with modern TDI engines. How happy are you gonna be with your Mahindra truck? What will its resale value be?

UK4X4

12-17-2008, 06:36 AM

"the Mahindra will become the Yugo of the pickup trucks."

they used to sell the mahindra in the UK, untill they disolved in the UK climate

resell value......the value of the engine...as it had a peugeut diesel

I really don't any of you, once you'd compared it to toyo build quality would even think about it seriously

- aftermarket.....ha.....you'll be lucky to get standard parts

roscoFJ73

12-17-2008, 08:16 AM

I would be wary about buying a Mahindra or Tata until its been well and truly looked over.

Ive had some close ups with these and the Ssangyong variation and they are no where near a Toyota in terms of development

The interiors squeaks,the sound pooofing is garbage and within a 100000 klms you will feel like you re in an unrestored 72 landcruiser.

People are going all ga ga because it has a diesel :bowdown:

For the cost of a Mahindra you could do a top notch diesel turbo conversion to a Landcruiser gasser

Martinjmpr

12-17-2008, 04:12 PM

The words of caution are appropriate, but consider this: All of the things that are said about Mahindra (cheap quality, will fall apart, can't find support, what is that thing?) were once said about Toyota and Nissan trucks.

The only way a company can break into the US market is to offer something that the existing manufacturers don't. Typically the way they do that is by undercutting the price of the existing market vehicles.

Could Mahindra be the Yugo of pickups? Possibly, yes.

But you know, at the time that the Yugo was introduced, there was another low-priced brand that broke into the US market at the same time. Anyone want to guess which brand that was?

Hyundai. ;)

So, while it's certainly conceivable that Mahindra could be Yugo, it's also conceivable that it could be Hyundai, a company that started off in the US market as a bottom-feeder and through hard work and improving quality, worked its way up to the point where it's at least the equal of, if not superior to, the domestic brands, a kind of budget Toyota. Suzuki has undergone a similar transformation from budget-car maker to second-tier import.

What's needed now is a distribution network, and with the big 3 in crisis, I wonder if there could be an opportunity there. Many big 3 dealers will have to close down, and you have to wonder if some of them might not want to take a chance on this upstart Indian brand that could be the next Hyundai.

mauricio_28

12-17-2008, 04:38 PM

4Rescue

12-17-2008, 05:22 PM

For the cost of a Mahindra you could do a top notch diesel turbo conversion to a Landcruiser gasser
Good point... And you'd probably have a far better built truck to boot.

Fair enough, but the choice at present is not between purchasing a Toyota/Nissan of three decades ago vs. a Mahindra of today. The choice at present is between a Toyota/Nissan of today vs. a Mahindra of today.
Actualy for us here in N.America if you want a Diesel toyota or Nissan you ARE looking at a several decade old (at least) vehicle... Or you're choping and swaping on a brand new truck (or the old one for that matter)

But you know, at the time that the Yugo was introduced, there was another low-priced brand that broke into the US market at the same time. Anyone want to guess which brand that was?
Hyundai. ;)

That's ALSO a very good point, Hyundai with their new Genesis platform has really turned their market share around, and quite frankly they've been making decent cars and small SUV's for quite a while now. They haven't been to up-scale, but that's changing and if you look around, there are still lots of early 90's Hyundai's running around on the streets. Something you can't say for alot of the Big 3's cars of the same era.

Good point Martin. All we can do is wait and see eh... But I do agree that if toyota and Nissan see the light and bring in a competeitor Mahindra might just have trouble on their hands.

Cheers

Dave

Martinjmpr

12-17-2008, 07:15 PM

Fair enough, but the choice at present is not between purchasing a Toyota/Nissan of three decades ago vs. a Mahindra of today. The choice at present is between a Toyota/Nissan of today vs. a Mahindra of today.

Which is why, if Mahindra wants to break into the US market, they'll either have to offer something nobody else does (i.e. small diesel) or they'll have to offer a truck that is significantly lower priced than the Toyota/Nissans of today.

A brand new 4x4 truck with an extended or double cab for under $20k could be very competitive in the market and may well tempt people to take the risk the same way they took a risk with those Isuzu [Chevy LUV] and Toyota 4x4 trucks back in 1980 and 81. Add a better-than-average warranty to the mix and you'd have a vehicle that was a serious challenge to the top-tier imports.

Gurkha

12-18-2008, 07:45 PM

Whats fascinating is Toyota sells the small 2.2L D4D in India on its Innova MUV, its a gem of a engine and they have weeded out some early fuel issues when bad fuel would permanently ruin the pump. This engine is very durable and in the land where Mahindra is made, the taxi companies give Toyota the preference so that speaks volume. The interesting part is that Toyota rates its engine at a conservative 103bhp whereas Mahindra and Tata rate their 2.1L at 120 and 140bhp repsectively. Now tell me who do you think will last, I am sure not the Tata or Mahindra.

haven

02-13-2009, 03:06 PM

Global Vehicles USA announced recently that the first examples of the Mahindra and Mahindra diesel pickup for USA customers will be built in India. The original plan had been to buy a plant in Ohio and assemble the pickup from kits delivered from India. There's a 25% import tariff on trucks imported from outside North America, but Global Vehicles USA says the trucks will be sold for the same amount as the units they planned to build in USA.

My reading of this is that the dealers who signed up to sell the new truck are not willing to wait any longer. Also, it's likely that, in today's financial climate, Global Vehicles USA is having difficulty securing financing for a new auto venture. It will be cheaper to start up using trucks built in India.

Production of the pickup for North America will start in India in September 2009. The MSRP will be announced at that time.

The company wants to sell the truck for 10% to 15% less than a comparable Tacoma. A 2009 Tacoma 4x4 double cab V6 automatic has an MSRP of about $28,000, so the similar Mahindra model would cost under $25,000.

The Global Vehicles USA people continue to say they expect an EPA rating of 30 mpg for combined city/highway driving. That Tacoma V6 4x4 is rated at 18 mpg combined. So fuel costs for the Mahindra would be lower, even though diesel is more expensive than regular unleaded.

Cargo capacity of the Mahindra is 2600 lbs. That's close to the rating of an F250 or Silverado 2500. In comparison, the Tacoma V6 4x4 cargo capacity is about 1400 lbs.

The problem for Global Vehicles USA is that domestic pickups are available at giveaway prices as GM, Ford and Dodge struggle to stay in business. And there will be a strong "Buy American" bias among potential fleet customers like electric or water utility companies. So the future is far from assured for Global Vehicles USA.

DavidG

02-14-2009, 02:10 AM

Thanks for the update!

roscoFJ73

02-14-2009, 02:51 AM

In Australia the Mahindra base single cab is $22000AUD or $14500USD.
The Hilux base model with turbo diesel $39000AUD or 25700USD.(made in Thailand)
I think australian prices include a 5-10% tariff and the vehicles in oz are usually sold as cab chassis,so you have to allow some extra for a tray

So even with 25% US tariff they should be well under Toyota by $7-8k

Totenkopf

02-14-2009, 04:54 AM

Mahindra model would cost under $25,000.
That's crazy. I will take a Ranger, stripped F-150, or any of the GM or Dodge trucks instead. If that will be the price, the importer should cut his losses now. Indian cars are only second to chinese when you look at how crappy and unsafe they are.

762X39

02-14-2009, 10:17 AM

You can buy a base model ranger now for $13k and my F150 Supercab which cost $30k in 2004 now sells for $23k. Yes it will be a hard go for imports from China and India and yes they may have poor fit and finish (I wouldn't go so far as to say crappy and unsafe without crash testing etc) but then the Koreans only took a decade or so to improve quality control and offer a product that rivals the Japanese.

Gurkha

02-14-2009, 10:31 AM

The Koreans are still not close to Japanese no matter what. For Mahindra Scorpio truck it will take way longer, its all looks but in terms of safety its a joke as it flips easily with slightest provocation due to its design constraints.

gary in ohio

02-14-2009, 12:12 PM

Global Vehicles USA announced recently that the first examples of the Mahindra and Mahindra diesel pickup for USA customers will be built in India. The original plan had been to buy a plant in Ohio and assemble the pickup from kits delivered from India.

I wonder if they EVER even had any talks. I have heard nothing in the OHIO press that anyone was looking to build. Usually when any business is looking to do something in ohio there is press that at lest there were looking.

I put my name on the list to give them a try whenever they get here.

If they can deliver on the MPG and dont make it just another cup holder count driven vehicle it still could be good.

mikeincg

02-14-2009, 01:43 PM

Mahindra has long history of making durable farm tractors, they are a wealthy corporation I believe that this is a very well thought out venture by Mahindra in India.
Our Mahindra 135 farm tractor was a tough little SOB in Florida, I would by another in heartbeat.
They have a very large farm tractor dealor network as well.

This little truck is intriguing to me.

taco2go

02-14-2009, 02:32 PM

OK , this is probably more of an emotion vs cerebral driven conjecture, and having grown up in India, I'm eager to see how this plays out....because I think that for staying power- they need to design a vehicle for the American market from the ground up. (I initially thought the common rail diesel would offer a foot in the door.) Simply transplanting a Scorpio or Bolero into metro Atlanta feels to me like a weird George Costanza “planets are colliding” episode… These vehicles are so ingrained into the Indian landscape- especially the vast rural stretches, that it’s hard for me to picture a Mahindra on US highways, just as I cannot envision an India WITHOUT the ubiquitous jeeps and Ambassador sedans. They are, as someone succinctly observed, crappy and unsafe, but they also have been plying those little dusty roads for over half a century, often held together with little more than strategically sprinkled tumeric and Ganesha’s good will……and somehow fit in better than a kitted out Land Cruiser or Tdi Defender.
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm264/joashr/jeeps/MahindraPassing320.jpg http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm264/joashr/jeeps/mahindra_scorpio.jpg

pics courtesy Derek Redmond

Gurkha

02-14-2009, 03:31 PM

http://www.theworld.org/files/images/800px-HIghway_Chennai_Bangalore.preview.jpg

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/2854/delhiroadnoidamirmax1un.jpg

http://www.patelinfra.com/others/mnabdvad.jpg

Maybe you need to visit India again.

Problem with Scorpio apart from its powertrain is that its suspension is like a horse cart, the rear is atrocious to say the last, it hops even on good roads and one of the reasons it has a tendency to flip over.

Maddmatt

02-14-2009, 03:48 PM

The Koreans are still not close to Japanese no matter what.

I don't know about that, I worked with a guy who had a 50 mile each way commute, bought a Kia something or other as a cheap commuter. High 20's to low 30's mpg had one transmission replaced (under warranty) at just under 100k - as far as I know he's still driving it. I rode many miles in that thing, it was comfortable, quiet and all together a well built little car.

Also, the new Hyundai Genesis is sure getting a lot of great press.... I think the Japanese can no more afford to rest on their laurels than the US firms could in the 80's. The only difference is the time range has become compressed, if it only took the Koreans 10-15 years to do what the Japanese did in 20, can the Indians do it in 5-10? I bet they can. Put me down for a test drive in a Mahindra (of course I'm still on the waiting list for a Crosslander too, so I guess I never learn :) )
-Matt

Gurkha

02-14-2009, 03:53 PM

Yup - no doubt the cities and "townships" are much more modern. Nice photos.
I go every year- medical missions in Uttaranchal, Uttrakhand, Himachal and Nepal. Leave end of April...

Pity, till last year I was living in Himachal, we could have hooked up, any chance you are coming by West Bengal or nearabouts, would be a pleasure to meet you.

taco2go

02-14-2009, 03:55 PM

Maybe you need to visit India again.

Yup - no doubt the cities and "townships" are much more modern. Nice photos.
I go every year- medical missions in Uttaranchal, Uttrakhand, Himachal and Nepal. Leave end of April...

SAS

02-17-2009, 01:19 AM

Put me down for a test drive in a Mahindra (of course I'm still on the waiting list for a Crosslander too, so I guess I never learn :) )
-Matt

Me too, Matt!

Tracy

haven

03-04-2009, 10:03 PM

Here's a wild notion: Sell Mahindra & Mahindra products at Saturn dealerships.

Automotive News is reporting that GM approached Global Vehicles USA, the importer for the M&M diesel pickup and SUV, and asked them to consider re-branding the trucks as Saturns.

GVUSA declined, but this got them thinking. GM has announced that they will not provide Saturn dealers with cars after 2011. The dealers will need someone else's cars to sell. So GVUSA approached a number of Saturn dealerships directly with the idea of becoming joint Saturn/Mahindra dealers. Reportedly, a few dealers signed up.

GVUSA continues to say the M&M diesel pickup, with two and four door cabs and with 2WD or 4WD, will be available this Fall at more than 300 dealers across the USA.

Here's where I saw the report:
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/03/04/mahindra-trucks-coming-to-a-saturn-dealer-near-you/

Incidentally, GVUSA has updated its web site. Check it out at
http://www.mahindrana.com

ZooJunkie

03-04-2009, 10:18 PM

Wonder if their diesel is clean enough for CA. That would be a compelling option!!

DavidG

03-04-2009, 10:27 PM

The website has improved quite a bit. It is much more professional in appearance. Now they need to work on the accessories and options. The base model is the only one that looks remotely rugged. Their taste in wheels, light bars, etc on the upmarket versions is terrible and will only turn off potential buyers. Get me in there, I'll show them :)

ZooJunkie

03-04-2009, 10:34 PM

Yah, I was turned off by their wheels and grill.

4Rescue

03-05-2009, 03:28 AM

... Their taste in wheels, light bars, etc on the upmarket versions is terrible and will only turn off potential buyers...

Or we could see a "re-birth" of 80's style North American wheeling... It's a toss up (but yeah, I REALLY dislike the upscale'rs cosmeticaly)

I'll be very dissapointed if we ONLY get the up scale full time 4wd gasser's like we do from nearly every other company... Oh why can't some of just order the truck we WANT instead of just puting up with what they offer stateside... Now I'm dreaming of TD V8 78's

Cheers

Dave

CA-RJ

05-12-2009, 05:38 AM

If you look here (http://nakedpikup.com.au/), Mahindra is selling regular cab, 2wd trucks without the bed for $16,990 AU which is $12,916.21 US. I'm still waiting to see if we actually see them this year (or ever). I could still go for a regular cab 4wd if the price and quality is right.

FreeManDan

06-05-2009, 12:39 AM

Diesel ram 1500 v6 AND v8, KILLED! Diesel Silverado 1500, KILLED! Diesel f-150 on hold for a year or more! Liquid propane F-150, $9,000 on top of it...other than a used full sized big three for mid 20 grand, does and one have a choice? I’m not even that enthusiastic about anything from India, I’ve been on the phone with India more than any other country :mixed-smiley-030:

spencyg

06-05-2009, 12:12 PM

[QUOTE=haven;355162]So GVUSA approached a number of Saturn dealerships directly with the idea of becoming joint Saturn/Mahindra dealers. Reportedly, a few dealers signed up.QUOTE]

I wonder what the new status is of this whole venture stands with Saturn now chopped and GM bankrupt? I'm waiting for SOMEBODY to explain to me why small diesels are so hard to get into this country???????? I constantly revert back to the big oil influences and the efficiency associated with diesels but keep hoping it is something less sinister....

Spence

Capt Sport

06-05-2009, 01:54 PM

I'm waiting for SOMEBODY to explain to me why small diesels are so hard to get into this country???????? I constantly revert back to the big oil influences and the efficiency associated with diesels but keep hoping it is something less sinister....

Nope, you pretty much hit the nail right on the head. :mad:

But now that Roger Penske auto group is buying Saturn maybe we'll see these trucks on our shores yet.

chet

06-05-2009, 02:33 PM

That would be cool. With a detroit diesel in them! (seeing as Penske owns them as well)

gary in ohio

06-05-2009, 03:29 PM

Martinjmpr

06-05-2009, 04:44 PM

I am on the list for a test drive, but with the Economy they way it is it will be interesting to see if GV can deliver a product this fall. The ONLY way they are going to compete is to be cheaper. They need to be the kia/Hyundai of the truck world. Diesel or mileage isnt going to lure people alone. Will the masses risk toyota or nissan class dollars on an unknown vehicle from a no-name company? I think not.

Well, it depends.

Because automobiles and trucks are so expensive, people tend to be very "risk averse" in making their choices (that's why brand reputation is so critical.)

The only ways to "break in" to the existing market are (1) undercut their price, or (2) offer something that nobody else does.

The Hyundai/Kia strategy is #1 (but also note that the automotive graveyards are littered with the bodies of those who tried the same thing and failed: Yugo, Renault, Daihatsu and others come to mind.)

However, offering a decent small diesel could be the #2 strategy. Small diesels were introduced briefly in the early 80's in quite a few cars and trucks but most of them were such poor performers that the manufacturers quickly pulled them from the market and diesel left a bad taste in their mouths ever since.

If Mahindra can do it right this time, by offering a diesel that has decent power, reliability and is "friendly" (i.e. not excessively noisy/dirty/smoky) then they could get their foothold in the market that way.

gary in ohio

06-05-2009, 05:17 PM

The key will be vehicle price. While I would love a diesel I am not sure many folks are ready for it. Heck just getting fuel can be difficult in some areas. I am lucky and live in a more rural area where diesel pickups and farm equipment abound, diesel if pretty much available at most stations.

In the big city finding diesel is a lot harder.

While I am sure the tree huggers will love the green 30mpg, in reality the actual dollar savings is not all that great jumping by 10mpg.

Figuring 15k/miles year and today's fuel price of 2.85 gas and 2.49 diesel.
GAS DIESEL
20mpg is 750 gallons $2137.50 $1867.50
30mpg is 500 gallons. $1425.00 $1245.00
Yearly Difference $ 712.50 $ 622.50
Monthly Difference $ 59.38 $ 51.88

Even cranking the numbers up to $5/gal the monthly difference is around $100/monthNow you need to figure maintenance and reliability into the mix, but MPG isnt a big deal.

esh

06-05-2009, 11:18 PM

I look at diesels not for mpg but range. If I have a little pickup to bop around in the woods I am much more relaxed going 400 miles on a tank than 250. Don't have to add an extra tank or carry cans and I can explore worry-free. Even better, torquey little truck motors do not seem to fluctuate with speed so you can putter around gravel roads or cruise down the freeway with some consistency.

Somewhat related, I was in Germany this spring and rented an Alfa Romeo GT. It had a zippy little turbo that did well on the autobahn and got something like 35-40mpg I worked out. 700 miles per tank. Was nice to be able to explore the country and not think about refueling.

To me the range is worth the engine premium price.

CA-RJ

06-06-2009, 12:38 AM

I feel the same way. The Mahindra has the possability to go 700 miles on a tank of fuel. I really like that. I don't think I've ever need range like that, but it is a huge selling point for me. It makes my 300 miles per 19 gallon tank on my 4Runner look silly.

Jigidy

06-08-2009, 01:25 AM

I am excited about the Mahindra...I worked in Chile and Argentina and fell in love with the Toyota Hi Lux that I got to drive for work. I wish I could have driven one back to the US! I anticipate that the Mahindra will not be of the overall quality of the Toyota but if it is anywhere close then sign me up for one! The prospect of having a nice efficient/ strong diesel gets me excited.

At 30 MPG I would trade my Chevrolet Silverado in for one for sure.

SGV

06-09-2009, 12:55 AM

I am on the list for a test drive...

Hmm, according to http://www.mahindrana.com/index.html there are 5626 total sign-ups for a test drive. How many people are Expo members? 7776. I am guessing that not a few of us have signed up for these test drives. :wavey:I'm on the list too. It just could be that the Mahindra test-drives may be impromptu meet-n-greets in our respective areas.

Gurkha

06-09-2009, 01:36 AM

gary in ohio

06-09-2009, 02:11 AM

I look at diesels not for mpg but range. If I have a little pickup to bop around in the woods I am much more relaxed going 400 miles on a tank than 250.

But how big is the market where that really matters? Granted a number of the expo folks might like that, including myself, but as your urban cruiser it doesnt matter.

haven

06-09-2009, 04:37 AM

I'll be interested to see how well Mahindra is accepted by
businesses that run a fleet of pickups for duties like meter
reading and simple utility maintenance. A diesel vehicle that
averages 22-24 mpg in stop and go driving (that's a guess on
my part) would result in decent savings to a company that
runs a fleet of pickups, particularly if diesel fuel continues to
be cheaper than unleaded regular.

I suspect that most fleet operators will continue to "buy American,"
but a few will give the diesel pickup a try.

Chip Haven

CA-RJ

06-09-2009, 05:40 AM

I got news for you, Mahindra is not even one fourth in terms of the Hi Lux when it comes to reliability and refinement or the overall design.

Your negativity in this thread has been noted (again and again). How about we wait and see what the US version of the truck is like before we write it off completely. I have a feeling that it is well known that American's are pretty picky when it comes to the vehicles they buy and Mahindra is not going to waste their time and money bringing a poorly built vehicle here. Both the engine and interior are going to be completely different than what's offered on other countries so maybe, just maybe it might be a decent truck.

Martinjmpr

06-09-2009, 01:51 PM

Your negativity in this thread has been noted (again and again). How about we wait and see what the US version of the truck is like before we write it off completely. I have a feeling that it is well known that American's are pretty picky when it comes to the vehicles they buy and Mahindra is not going to waste their time and money bringing a poorly built vehicle here. Both the engine and interior are going to be completely different than what's offered on other countries so maybe, just maybe it might be a decent truck.

Heh heh. Low quality? Unrefined?

People said that about Japanese cars/trucks when they first came out, too.

DavidG

06-09-2009, 02:57 PM

Hmm, according to http://www.mahindrana.com/index.html there are 5626 total sign-ups for a test drive. How many people are Expo members? 7776. I am guessing that not a few of us have signed up for these test drives. :wavey:I'm on the list too. It just could be that the Mahindra test-drives may be impromptu meet-n-greets in our respective areas.

Ha, I think you are right! I'm on the list too. If we don't like the trucks we could gather in the parking lot and talk about ours :victory:

Desert Dan

06-09-2009, 04:07 PM

I hope they offer it with a 5-speed stick.

That front skid plate looks like it would get hung up on stuff when backing up and would hurt if you hit your head in it while under the vehicle.

Gurkha

06-10-2009, 07:00 AM

Heh heh. Low quality? Unrefined?

People said that about Japanese cars/trucks when they first came out, too.

Can't be compared, even the early initial Japanese offerings were quite good, people have poor knowledge of history, Japanese auto industry goes back to the 30s and during WW-II, Japanese made all their vehicles as well as engines for their ships. This is not the case with India and it has a long way to go. About Mahindra, I speak from personal experience and experience of others being an unfortunate first hand owner.

Gurkha

06-10-2009, 07:02 AM

I hope they offer it with a 5-speed stick.

That front skid plate looks like it would get hung up on stuff when backing up and would hurt if you hit your head in it while under the vehicle.

It comes with 5 speed standard, the shifting is nowhere close to Japanese or German offering, its a modified Peugeot BA-10 tranny.

oka boy

06-10-2009, 09:48 AM

Hi All,I was a very unfortunate owner of a Mahindra 4x4 a few years ago,never since then I have experienced a lower quality in any vehicle,my word of advice is look at it very very very very carefully,what appears to be cheap at the beginning can turn into a expensive nightmare,this is their second launch to the Australian market and there isn't much of a dealer network

Gurkha

06-10-2009, 04:39 PM

FreeManDan

06-12-2009, 09:09 PM

He doesn’t speak latten, he only speaks Australian:sombrero:
The quality of Mahindra tractors isn’t bad, their selection can’t hold a candle to John Deere of course. I do recall when they hit the US market, the amount of advertising for TRACTORS was ridiculous! But I really want to ask, if the big 3 offered a ½ or ¼ ton diesel pickup for 28-34,999.99 well equipped, wouldn’t you rather push it then drive a Mahindra? Really, what did India ever do for us? Japan may have bombed us, but I’m over it, they never kept me on the phone for hours and never got anything done :mad:

roscoFJ73

06-13-2009, 11:57 AM

I have a feeling that it is well known that American's are pretty picky when it comes to the vehicles they buy and Mahindra is not going to waste their time and money bringing a poorly built vehicle here..

If they are so picky why have they been buying their own brands for so long?:elkgrin:

I think many in the US will be surpised how small it is compared to their own pick ups.
These are about the same size as a Hilux from the late 70s with a bit more headroom.

SGV

06-13-2009, 03:17 PM

I think many in the US will be surprised how small it is compared to their own pick ups.
These are about the same size as a Hilux from the late 70s with a bit more headroom.

Hopefully this will spur the current companies to develop or release small diesel pick-ups to the US market. Maybe Ford will keep the Ranger and Toyota will introduce a pick-up that is the size of the early trucks or at least the 1st gen Tacoma. One can always hope.

Gurkha

06-13-2009, 05:06 PM

Your negativity in this thread has been noted (again and again). How about we wait and see what the US version of the truck is like before we write it off completely. I have a feeling that it is well known that American's are pretty picky when it comes to the vehicles they buy and Mahindra is not going to waste their time and money bringing a poorly built vehicle here. Both the engine and interior are going to be completely different than what's offered on other countries so maybe, just maybe it might be a decent truck.

My negativity stems from my own personal experience and that of others who have had the misfortune of dealing with Mahindra, also I am well aware of their technical prowess and tie ups, its good to be hopeful but not when its on the verge of overtly optimistic or edging toward disillusionment.

Crikeymike

06-14-2009, 04:19 AM

They could have some very nice color choices - Yellow curry, green curry, and red curry. The white could be called Yoghurt.

I used to eat Indian food on a regular basis back in Australia, but haven't had it for a long time now...

I've been watching the news on this release, and it will be interesting to see what they come up with and what possible changes/features they'll work out for the US market. They might just bring the truck to attack the "work truck" or "farming" market and stay away from the average joe who would want to commute with it.

CA-RJ

06-14-2009, 08:49 PM

There is a new flash video on the Mahindra website. They are claiming an estimated 30mpg now.

haven

06-15-2009, 04:29 AM

I noticed that, too. In the early days, they were promising mid-30s highway, and now its simply 30 mpg highway. That will put the city rating around 20 mpg, and combined rating near 23 mpg (I'm guessing).

That's still pretty impressive. A Ford Ranger 4x4 4.0L V6 with automatic is rated 14 city, 18 highway and 15 mpg combined. A Tacoma 4x4 with 2.7L I4 and 5 speed is rated at 17 city, 22 highway, 19 mpg combined. Neither truck has a carrying capacity close to the 2600 lbs of the Mahindra.

Gurkha

06-15-2009, 05:13 AM

Life_in_4Lo

06-15-2009, 05:25 AM

The American free market is littered with good examples of cheap junk that tickled consumer fancy for a brief period.
It's great that Americans are open to giving things a chance but usually they soon fall by the wayside because established brands are worth the extra $ and/or the quality is so piss-poor it isn't worth the bottom dollar asking price.

It's a cool concept- one that is sadly neglected in the US market- simple, solid axle diesel consumer work trucks. However, are you telling me you would still buy a Mahinra 4x4 if Toyota decided to bring a d-4d Hilux 4x4 here?

All I'm saying is if the market begins to get tapped, Mahindra is going to have a tough time of it because they build cheap stuff, have no dealer base or consumer recognition or loyalty. All it takes is one major US player to pick up the ball and it's game over.

Maybe with the aquisition of Land Rover, India's build standards will come up in general from osmosis and Tata's global reach but that's not a 1-5year goal. That's a 10-20 year goal at the earliest.

The most incredible ramp up is Hyundai and the Korean auto industry that only took 15-20 years in the US market to build world competitive products. I don't see India's auto industry in the same position.

mauricio_28

06-15-2009, 05:38 AM

Life_in_4Lo

06-15-2009, 05:49 AM

CA-RJ

06-15-2009, 09:29 AM

gary in ohio

06-15-2009, 10:42 AM

India's fuel economy rating is very different than the US. I wonder if Mahindra's is US EPA mpg's or India's mpg rating. If so, actual US mpg rating will be lower.

MPG ratings for older cars is also different than new cars in the USA. They are no longer directly comparable

Not an issue if you compare same model year cars. Ratings when the vehicle is offered forsale will be US standard so MPG comparison would be easy.

Gurkha

06-15-2009, 06:57 PM

I will counter with the fact that Mahindra has been selling their tractors in the US for quite some time. If they can compete with John Deer and still remain in business, they must be doing something right.

If Mahindra's truck is $20k and a diesel Tacoma was starting at $25k, yes, I would look at a Mahindra as a possible alternative.

For $5k you are willing to trade off the reliability of the Toyota as well as the performance for an unknown vehicle from a questionable background. Suggest you come down to India and see their products in action. Maybe then you will have some idea. I am not saying that they die right after you take em out of showroom, they certainly are nowhere near the Toyota. Even the Toyota Innova MUV based on Hi Lux D4D sold in India platform outlasts any Mahindra products with ease and their reputation is bulletproof among fleet users who have now abandoned Mahindra Scorpio for Toyota.

joecallimachus@hotmail.co

06-15-2009, 08:17 PM

For $5k you are willing to trade off the reliability of the Toyota

What toyota? I just went to the Toyota site. I tried to look at a two door long bed. Guess what. To get a "long bet" (which hapens to be the same size as their "standard bed") you have to get a 4 door.

If I want a small engine, (it's just me and my 60 pound kayak) I have to "
Change Long Bed to Standard Bed, Double Cab to Regular Cab, and 5-Speed Automatic to 5-Speed Manual,"

My point is THERE IS NO TOYATA, FORD, GM, NISSAN for those of us who just want to haul our bicycles and yaks around and don't need the capacity to haul a couple of tons of bricks with a 10 liter engine.

Offtrack

06-17-2009, 02:55 AM

Been watching this truck also.

Got a email back from Mahindra USA today. They told me the first ones will start selling in the South East USA in Nov/Dec this year 2009. Then in the North West USA next year Feb/Mar 2010.

roscoFJ73

06-17-2009, 01:23 PM

Hopefully this will spur the current companies to develop or release small diesel pick-ups to the US market. Maybe Ford will keep the Ranger and Toyota will introduce a pick-up that is the size of the early trucks or at least the 1st gen Tacoma. One can always hope.

You really think there is a market for small slow pick ups?
In most parts of the world they only drive them because they cant afford the cost of running more thirsty petrol versions.
You can drive a large pick up in the US and have the same fuel bill you would get in Europe for driving a small diesel truck.

I dont think Americans will put up with these unless the cost of fuel soars and stays there for the forseeable future.

SGV

06-17-2009, 02:33 PM

You really think there is a market for small slow pick ups?
In most parts of the world they only drive them because they cant afford the cost of running more thirsty petrol versions.
You can drive a large pick up in the US and have the same fuel bill you would get in Europe for driving a small diesel truck.

I dont think Americans will put up with these unless the cost of fuel soars and stays there for the foreseeable future.

No, actually I don't. But it would be nice to have the option of a high mpg small truck. A quick check at edmunds the best I can find for a 4wd is 20mpg for the 4cylinder GMC Canyon, and I am sure it makes much less power than a diesel would. Also, the other day while bored I "built your own" a diesel Ford truck. $40K seems like a lot to spend on a truck. Anyway, I was merely speculating. I agree that Americans won't buy small or slow unless they absolutely are forced to.

Come to think of it, aren't the current 4-cyl gas trucks slow?

Crikeymike

06-17-2009, 03:17 PM

I got news for you..........Indians don't eat curry, you won't find curry in India. That thing was invented by a Britisher in the late 1800s to make ease cooking Indian food for westerners.

Well it's a good thing that I have no plans to go to India, cause now I know that I won't have to try and find curry there.

Don't forget, everyone, that the US-spec of a vehicle is almost always different than what is offered overseas. I'm sure Mahindra makes some cheap, low-cost trucks over there, but those aren't necessarily what will end up over here.

If the D4D Hilux was sold here, or at least if that running gear was optioned into a Tacoma here, then the sales would be pretty strong.

Gurkha

06-17-2009, 04:41 PM

Well it's a good thing that I have no plans to go to India, cause now I know that I won't have to try and find curry there.

Don't forget, everyone, that the US-spec of a vehicle is almost always different than what is offered overseas. I'm sure Mahindra makes some cheap, low-cost trucks over there, but those aren't necessarily what will end up over here.

If the D4D Hilux was sold here, or at least if that running gear was optioned into a Tacoma here, then the sales would be pretty strong.

Mahindra has no technology tie ups on anvil, the engine offered in US is the same 2.2L that does duty here.

D4D would be an excellent option indeed, thats one frugal, efficient and reliable engine there.

zimm

06-18-2009, 01:20 PM

Heh heh. Low quality? Unrefined?

People said that about Japanese cars/trucks when they first came out, too.

the guy apparently knows what hes talking about..

..so what are you recommending here?...

are you saying in 20 years this company will be making high quality vehicles, so someone should run out and buy hunk of poo now?

they guy lives with these trucks every day, hes giving a friendly warning...

im heeding it.

zimm

06-18-2009, 01:24 PM

Your negativity in this thread has been noted (again and again). How about we wait and see what the US version of the truck is like before we write it off completely. I have a feeling that it is well known that American's are pretty picky when it comes to the vehicles they buy and Mahindra is not going to waste their time and money bringing a poorly built vehicle here. Both the engine and interior are going to be completely different than what's offered on other countries so maybe, just maybe it might be a decent truck.

tell that to peugeut and fiat and hugo and land rover and triumph and dihatsu.... etc.... etc.... etc....

all had issues from the get go.

haven

06-18-2009, 04:49 PM

The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Mahindra is planning to release an SUV in USA in about 18 months. The price will start in the $13,000 to $15,000 range! The SUV will use the truck's diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission. No word on how much extra you'd pay for 4x4.

That's less than any other SUV sold in USA today, I believe. Goodbye, Jeep Liberty, Hello Mahindra!

http://www.freep.com/article/20090616/BUSINESS01/906160340/1014/BUSINESS01/Chrysler++Ford+dealers+join+Mahindra+group

In other news, Mahindra is is recruiting dealers who recently lost their franchise with Chrysler or GM to join the 300 or so dealers who already have signed on to sell the pickups.

Offtrack

06-19-2009, 02:04 AM

I would just bet they are going to make sure that most the bugs are worked out of the trucks. Very Excited to see how they are received here.

This is not a brand new company or product, its well aged and tested. The USA truck will have some changes but the base unit is still the same truck.

After reading some reviews in Australia and South Africa on them it looks like the folks that had the truck that were real about their posting were overall happy with them.

A farmer/rancher any where in the world to me is more of a better reviewer/tester of a truck like this any day over someone that is a car reviewer.

roscoFJ73

06-19-2009, 05:30 AM

Come to think of it, aren't the current 4-cyl gas trucks slow?

The 4cyl gas engines are always faster than a non turbo diesel.
The Toyotas, Rodeos and other Japanese utes we get in oz have quite good power.
These days most of them are V6 gassers or 4cyl turbo diesel.
Toyota also has a 2.7 litre 4 cyl gas engine option.
My cousin has one of these for his business and is quite happy with the power.
Mazda no longer have a gas option at all,just 2 turbo diesels

We also have some smaller utes ,like the Proton from Malaysia.
http://www.hardtopsdirect.co.uk/Jumbuck/gallery.jpg

Rallyroo

06-19-2009, 05:42 AM

Look what I found...

Be the first to test drive a Mahindra in your area.
In 2009, we'll be driving across America, rolling out the country's first all-diesel line of pickups.
Sign up now for your exclusive invitation to be one of the first Americans to drive a Mahindra.

http://www.mahindrana.com/test-drive-mahindra.html

haven

06-19-2009, 02:03 PM

I signed up months ago, but have not heard a single word about when the tour will start. Let's just hope the tour will be held sometime in 2009!

Offtrack

06-19-2009, 03:48 PM

Check this rig out Mahindra also makes, its not on the list to be sold in the USA (darn). Looking at it reminds me of a G500 for some reason. :drool:
http://www.mahindrabolero.com/images/gallery/bolero11.jpg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9gQDJXUgb0

theMec

06-19-2009, 04:03 PM

You really think there is a market for small slow pick ups?
In most parts of the world they only drive them because they cant afford the cost of running more thirsty petrol versions.

Have you ever driven a turbo diesel? They do just fine with respect to speed. I'd take a small turbo diesel over the petrol variety anyday. Travel somewhere that both models are made for the same truck. You will see very few gas models on the street. Turbo diesel performance is well recognized .. and oh yeah, the fuel mileage is better too. :)

SGV

06-19-2009, 09:31 PM

Mec, I think you are quoting me quoting someone else. I expect the turbo diesels to have decent acceleration. At least better than the 4cyl trucks offered now. The ones I have driven have a decent off the line acceleration, but get a little wheezy in the top gears. I don't have a problem with it, just what I have noticed. I am looking forward to test driving this little truck.

FreeManDan

06-19-2009, 10:25 PM

Comparison: 2006 2.8L turbo common rail diesel jeep liberty does 0-60 in 9.5 seconds 1/4 mile. 17.1 seconds @ 79 mph (information courtesy of motor week’s web site)

2004 2.8L Chevy Colorado (Isuzu designed) inline 4 does 0-60 in 8.7 seconds 1/4 mile 16.5 seconds @ 85 mph (courtesy of Coloradofans.com)

The liberty can tow 1,312 lbs more and gets no less then 4 MPG better mileages.:coffeedrink:
Ive been in a liberty with 600lbs of people and gear and no noticeable difference was noted it performance, my Nissan frontier however is sluggish with 600lbs in the bed.

roscoFJ73

06-20-2009, 09:45 AM

Have you ever driven a turbo diesel? They do just fine with respect to speed. I'd take a small turbo diesel over the petrol variety anyday. Travel somewhere that both models are made for the same truck. You will see very few gas models on the street. Turbo diesel performance is well recognized .. and oh yeah, the fuel mileage is better too. :)

It was me in the original quote;)
Yes I have driven many turbo 4 and 6 cyl diesels from Japan.
I was generalising about small 4 cyl non turbo and the older style turbo diesels.

The new top of the range diesels are great but I doubt whether the Mahindra will be anything like a Prado,Navara or Isuzu turbo diesel.
They are still not as powerful as the petrol equivalents in most cases especially in the higher rpms.

I suspect the Mahindra will be adequate for those who have had a long association with old diesels and dont have unrealistic expectations.

SGV

06-25-2009, 12:09 PM

Article on CNN: http://money.cnn.com/2009/06/24/autos/Indian_cars_mahindra/index.htm?postversion=2009062418

taco2go

06-25-2009, 03:08 PM

This made me chuckle: Mahindra is already one of the biggest-selling tractor manufacturers in the American market and even sponsors a Nascar team

FreeManDan

06-30-2009, 10:22 PM

I can’t get over how ugly the front end is...

Offtrack

06-30-2009, 11:38 PM

Agreed the front end is hard to look at.
Looks good with a new bumper and bull bar, witch any rig needs where I am at....Deer can mess up things a bit.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJdLYLKP4eI

78Bronco

07-21-2009, 09:04 PM

It was me in the original quote;)
Yes I have driven many turbo 4 and 6 cyl diesels from Japan.
I was generalising about small 4 cyl non turbo and the older style turbo diesels.

The new top of the range diesels are great but I doubt whether the Mahindra will be anything like a Prado,Navara or Isuzu turbo diesel.
They are still not as powerful as the petrol equivalents in most cases especially in the higher rpms.

I suspect the Mahindra will be adequate for those who have had a long association with old diesels and dont have unrealistic expectations.

A gas motor of equal displacement will not make anywhere near the torque that a turbo diesel does. A diesel is not made for top end power. Top end power isn't going to do much for you when you are offroad with a vehicle burdened with weight. Unless you like revving the piss out of your petrol motor in first gear going up a hill when carrying max payload. :barf

go4aryd

07-22-2009, 02:15 PM

Having visited them in India years ago, I also suspect that the Mahindra will not be a turbo.

Gurkha

07-22-2009, 07:24 PM

Having visited them in India years ago, I also suspect that the Mahindra will not be a turbo.

Its a turbo CRDI engine. Most of diesels have been turbo in India since the 90s, even my OM616 in Gurkha is turbo and not N/A

haven

07-24-2009, 08:45 PM

Mahindra & Mahindra has launched a new version of its utility vehicle, the "Pik-Up," in Australia. Pickuptrucks.com has more information

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/07/australian-mahindra-pickup-looks-very-close-to-us-truck.html

The interior of the new Pik-Up is reported to be very similar to the USA version (we'll get left hand drive, of course). The USA launch of the new brand is less than 5 months away.

There's no sign of updated photos on the USA Mahindra web site http://www.mahindrana.com

The web site does list the vehicle's advantages, including
2.2L diesel, 6 speed automatic, 4x4
30 mpg in highway driving
4 wheel ABS
electronic stability control
traction control
7 foot cargo bed (standard cab model)
payload 2,765 pounds
towing capacity 5,000
4-year 60,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper warranty

Ryanmb21

07-24-2009, 09:21 PM

I dig it.

cruiseroutfit

07-29-2009, 01:54 PM

Mahindra & Mahindra has launched a new version of its utility vehicle, the "Pik-Up," in Australia. Pickuptrucks.com has more information...

Ironic. I ran into one in the Blue Mountains above Sydney Australia this afternoon. We arrived to the parking lot for a overlook hike and I notice this truck in the parking lot that looked 'different' (all relative when everything is different here vehicle-wise). It was a new Mahindra Pickup.

From our afternoon adventures...

haven

08-03-2009, 06:00 PM

Mahindra and Mahindra announced that the start of production of the USA
version of the diesel "Pik-Up" has been pushed back to December 2009.
Initially, M&M will build the "Pik-Up" in India. Add the time to ship the
vehicles from India to USA, and it's likely that vehicles won't be available for
sale here until February 2010. That's more than a year later than originally
planned.

This news will not make dealers who signed up to sell the vehicle happy.
Here's hoping that they air-ship a couple of demonstrator models to USA
in late December.

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/08/mahindra-pickup-delayed-until-february-2010.html

haven

08-07-2009, 04:47 PM

Autoblog has a good collection of images of the recent
versions of the Mahindra pickup. The interior of the vehicle
we receive will be updated, but the exterior will look a lot
like these photos. I like the standard cab's appearance more
than the crew cab.

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

The bed is 7 feet long, and the cargo capacity is 2600 lbs.
The drivetrain of a 2.2L diesel engine, 5 speed automatic
and 4x4 is reported to get 30 mpg on the highway. Sounds
like a good adventure travel platform to me. Too bad the
emissions system will require ultra-low sulfur diesel.

Here's the link to the photos
http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/mahindra-pik-up/#2

Redline

08-07-2009, 05:49 PM

Agreed, the regular cab has better lines than the crew cab.

haven

08-07-2009, 10:11 PM

"most current diesels can be modified to delete the DPF..."

I think this is necessary only when you're traveling to Mexico and
points south, where ULSD is not readily available. Certainly, a modified
emissions system will be flagged by the annual smog test required
in many states before you can renew your registration.

haven

08-26-2009, 03:29 PM

Mike Levine of Pickuptrucks.com recently interviewed John Perez, the CEO of GV-USA. GV-USA is the company importing the Mahindra & Mahindra pickup. Read the report here
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/08/us-importer-says-mahindra-pickup-has-come-a-long-way.html

Also included is a photo of the pickup with USA bumpers.
http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/mahindra-usatrim.jpg

In response to reader comments, Mike says he expects the pickup to be priced between $22K (for a rear wheel drive standard cab) to $28K (for a 4x4 double cab). GV-USA has signed up dealers for all states except Alaska and Hawaii.

I think the entry level Mahindra should be priced below $20K. There are lots of new full size V6 and even V8 pickups offered by USA manufacturers for less than $20K, less than $18K in some cases.

Mahindra's decision to build the pickups in India for the time being reduces GV-USA's startup costs and improves quality control. But there's a 25% tax when importing utility vehicles built outside North America. So GV-USA will pay $5000 in taxes on each Mahindra truck they import.

The 25% tax is the primary reason all those great pickups built in Thailand are not imported to USA. The Mercedes Sprinter is built in Germany, disassembled, shipped to USA, and reassembled in South Carolina before delivery to Dodge dealers -- all to avoid the 25% tax. At some point, Mahindra will have to do the same.

kellymoe

08-26-2009, 04:37 PM

Is anyone else getting the feeling it's not going to happen? The company that is importing the Mahindra also tried to import a Romanian SUV a few years back but I cant think of the name of the vehicle, something like the Arro? Anyway they had a whole dealer network signed up and money was paid to the importer. Then the whole thing went away only to reappear now with the the Mahindra. I sure hope I am wrong because a truck like this would be a welcome addition to the competition.

Ah, it was the Crosslander from Romania, this would have been great to have in the US.
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=106327

norshor

08-26-2009, 05:36 PM

CA-RJ

08-26-2009, 05:59 PM

$22k for a standard cab, 2wd, is not going to get people into the dealerships to buy one of these. The base Tacoma 2wd is just over $15k and is rated at 26 mpg highway, so really, why would you spend $7k more for a Mahindra? I was all over the idea of this truck, but the more I see it and now reading about the pricing, I'm not so interested.

UK4X4

08-26-2009, 07:36 PM

Once you actually see it in person----its a complete non starter

it does not compete in anyway with a Toy-Nissan-US manufactured truck

I saw lots in Sri lanka- unless it was 1/2 the price I don't see it making an impact in the US- diesel or not

haven

08-27-2009, 05:14 PM

Pickuptrucks.com got to drive two Mahindra & Mahindra models in Atlanta recently. The report is here
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/08/taj-mahauler-we-drive-the-mahindra-diesel-pik-up.html

Neither of the trucks is configured the same as the USA version will be, but they provided a positive impression. The author writes, "What we found was that parts of the trucks managed to only live up to our low expectations, but we also came away impressed -- no, stunned really -- by how well the trucks are setup in certain areas."

The author roundly criticizes the pickup's interior fit and finish. (The interior is not the same as the one planned for USA.) He liked the road manners and the diesel performance with the 5 speed manual transmission. "Overall, ride quality and noise, vibration and harshness is very competitive with current U.S. midsize pickups, if not superior to some."

Next up, the Scorpio SUV. Here the interior was much more harmonious and better screwed together. But the handling of the SUV was too sloppy, and the engine occasionally had too much turbo lag. Again, this vehicle is not the same as the model that will be imported next year.

All Mahindra models will have a 6 speed automatic when the showrooms open for business next February. But there's a chance the 5 speed manual will be an option later.

The author concludes that if the new Mahindra models for USA can live up to the advertised 30 mpg highway, 2600 lb carrying capacity and 5000 lb towing, then they will find buyers looking for a work truck.

haven

08-27-2009, 05:33 PM

"The base Tacoma 2wd is just over $15k and is rated at 26 mpg highway, so really, why would you spend $7k more for a Mahindra?"

The base Tacoma can only carry 1350 lbs of cargo, vs 2600 lbs in the Mahindra. It just depends on what you're looking for the truck to do for you. If you're delivering pizzas, the Tacoma would be fine.

I think the real competition for the Mahindra will be the full size American trucks with V6 or small V8. These are the stripper vehicles sold to fleet buyers looking for an economical, durable work truck. Fuel mileage, around 20 mpg highway, is not as good as the Mahindra. They've got similar payload to the Mahindra, they're roomier inside, and they are less expensive to buy.

Chip Haven

haven

08-28-2009, 04:37 PM

http://in.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idINIndia-42041620090828

Reuters is reporting that Mahindra & Mahindra is considering the purchase of an auto plant in USA to manufacture their diesel pickup and SUV. Chrysler, GM and now Toyota have announced plant closings in USA, so M&M should be able to buy a plant for a bargain price.

The original business model for M&M vehicles in USA had been to import them as knocked-down kits, and reassemble them somewhere in North America. This is how Mercedes Sprinters are imported, for example.

That plan was scrapped. The current plan is to build the vehicles in India and import them fully assembled. However, fully assembled trucks face a 25% import tariff. In the long run, Mahindra & Mahindra needs to build the trucks here.

Herbie

08-28-2009, 09:49 PM

The base Tacoma 2wd is just over $15k and is rated at 26 mpg highway, so really, why would you spend $7k more for a Mahindra?

Well, two points:

1) Toyota just announced that its shutting down the NUMMI plant where the Tacoma is produced, which means that the 25% chicken tax will apply to future Tacomas.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iQBEwXHC6U1bXKTzzQiTXZbJnsVQD9ABBBSG0

2) The Ranger is dead after 2009, so that is no longer a competitor.
http://www.leftlanenews.com/ford-rangers-fate-up-in-air.html

Factor those into the math and suddenly the Mahindra doesn't look as bad.

hinoranger

08-28-2009, 10:20 PM

1) Toyota just announced that its shutting down the NUMMI plant where the Tacoma is produced, which means that the 25% chicken tax will apply to future Tacomas.

I think production is moving to Mexico, which is protected by NAFTA; there are several Big 3 truck models that have been produced in Canada and Mexico.

haven

08-29-2009, 01:05 AM

NUMMI will continue to operate until Spring 2010. Toyota announced
today that production of the Tacoma will move to the San Antonio, TX
factory, with production starting in Summer 2010. San Antonio is the
factory where the Tundra is made today.

The Tacoma is due for a redesign for the 2012 model year. I wonder
if they will follow the lead of Nissan, and design the next Tacoma to
use the same frame as the Tundra. That means there would be
no need for an assembly line dedicated solely to Tacoma. Nissan
uses the F-Alpha frame for the Titan, Frontier, Armada, Pathfinder
and XTerra.

Offtrack

08-31-2009, 03:14 PM

This kind of fits here. Looks like Mahindra is looking at making even bigger trucks for India and other parts of the world with Navistar.

http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/mahindra-nevistar-to-launch-1st-commercial-vehicle-in-jan%5C10/72023/on

http://www.mahindra.com/OurBusinesses/truck-bus-manufacturers.html

jkam

09-10-2009, 04:44 PM

Visiting family in Vegas and the business behind my brothers does testing for a lot of manufacturers.

This morning I saw a truck unloading some Mahindra pickups. Talked to an Indian guy who will be testing and he offered to let me test drive one once they get it sorted out. It's a diesel 4 door automatic so it should be interesting. I'll let y'all know my thoughts.

Took a few pictures of the the truck.

winkosmosis

09-10-2009, 05:30 PM

upcruiser

09-10-2009, 05:52 PM

I got to drive a crew cab manual a few days ago here in Chile. I liked the power and ride, stiffer riding then say a stock Tacoma. It had a relatively hefty feel to it. At idle there is definatley some vibration and harshness but the ergonomics seemed pretty good for the short drive I had on it. Rear seat leg room was pretty good, better than I expected I think the bed is too short with the crew cab for real hauling duty though. Just my take on it. Overall I really like it, the styling doesn't look so bad to me any more either.

DavidG

09-10-2009, 05:55 PM

I want to see a 4-door sans decals, with a decent size mud tire on steel wheels. I really want to like this truck, but visually it's failing to grow on me. Crooked (and ugly) decals, crooked door handle, typical boring alloys, large and funky black (plastic?) cab vent? Paint the vent body color, offset the intercooler and hood scoop. The styling is peculiar, very much a combination of modern front clip with 1980's pickup. Spec-wise, it appears to scratch all the right itches, but I wish Mahindra would get their act together and start offering drives...the US importer is practically in my backyard!

winkosmosis

09-10-2009, 06:11 PM

Wait.. $22-28k? I have to say it looks too much like a Rhino rebodied with 90s organic styling to be sold for that much.

I Leak Oil

09-10-2009, 10:18 PM

Would there be any interest in this if it was a gas powered 4 cylinder? Probably not much. I think it's going to be a tough sell here.

theMec

09-10-2009, 11:13 PM

Specs don't matter. American work truck buyers will take one look at it and walk away. Size matters here unfortunately.

This may be true but I'd guess most of the trucks in the US are "play" trucks and not used daily in work situations. Driving to work, yes - but not used for work.

Also when fleet work truck buyers see they can get an extra 10+ miles gallon, they might well consider the Mahindra. Sure the work truck driver might moan but they don't own the company.

The above is pure speculation on my part. Time will tell. I have to say I really like the tie downs on the outside of the bed. Very functional.

scooby074

09-12-2009, 03:52 AM

Personally i really like this truck. I think its going to fill a needed niche thats being overlooked by the majors.

I like the bed design. I could have been lifted right off a first gen toyota. Tie downs are great.

I hope people will give it a chance. Theres been several delays bringing it to market here. I wonder if they're trying to smooth out some of the issues ive read about (fit and finish and ride)

I want this to be a success, and i really think that Toyota and Ford (and maybe the others) will begin selling compact diesels if this things a hit. (hello diesel hilux:victory:) As a owner of a compact Tacoma (1995.5) i think that Toyota has lost their way, and maybe the success of a vehicle like the mahindra will bring them back to what made the successful.

About the only shortfalls i see are that mahindra is only bringing the full load models over, complete with flappy paddle gearbox which negates any price advantage they'll have over the likes of established brands like Toyota. Plus these models are more complicated which could result in some durability issues.

I say they should have brought over the stripped down models, established a market presence for price and durability, then brought over the Deluxe models.

Oh... and they need bring it to Canada too :mad:

upcruiser

09-15-2009, 04:04 PM

I was in downtown Santiago a couple of days ago and passed a Mahindra dealer. They had an ambulance version of the Mahindra pickup for sale on the lot. Looked like a factory offering, VERY impressive looking potential overland rig right off the showroom floor. Wish I could have snapped some shots of it.

upcruiser

09-15-2009, 04:08 PM

Found a shot of it online....

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m118/rodrally2/autos%20varios/salon%202008/ambulancia.jpg

Bogo

09-15-2009, 05:07 PM

The author concludes that if the new Mahindra models for USA can live up to the advertised 30 mpg highway, 2600 lb carrying capacity and 5000 lb towing, then they will find buyers looking for a work truck.

Yep. It would be a good match for many farms. You could buy a pallet of steel fence t posts, and 5 to 7 bails of barbwire and drive directly to the field. My Toyota 4x4 mini truck is about 1000lbs shy of being able to do that.

Bogo

09-15-2009, 05:24 PM

Specs don't matter. American work truck buyers will take one look at it and walk away. Size matters here unfortunately.

Yep, size matters. For years and years I've been wanting a small truck that can carry a full ton plus fuel, driver and passengers. It seams that whenever I go get supplies it is usually close to a ton. A bed that can hold 7' t-posts with the tailgate closed would be nice. No worrying about them sliding out the back on steep inclines like I have on the farm.

Herbie

09-15-2009, 08:59 PM

Yep, size matters. For years and years I've been wanting a small truck that can carry a full ton plus fuel, driver and passengers. It seams that whenever I go get supplies it is usually close to a ton. A bed that can hold 7' t-posts with the tailgate closed would be nice. No worrying about them sliding out the back on steep inclines like I have on the farm.

1.38 Ton capacity and a 7.5' bed on the 2-door, sounds like a perfect fit.

Personally, I just wish they had the "long bed" on the 4-door...

Gurkha

09-16-2009, 08:26 AM

http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/technical-stuff/41064-mahindra-scorpio-issues-solutions.html

Folks, please take a look at this thread, as I mentioned before, I and many of my friends are ex Mahindra owners, I owned Armada and Scorpio, most of my friends owned Scorpios.

http://www.consumercomplaints.in/complaints/engine-malfunction-and-service-centre-said-no-problem-c71923.html

This is a very common complaint, one thats faced by many, sad part is the engine cuts off during a high speed highway run and you are left with a dead engine in the middle of nowhere.

alosix

09-16-2009, 06:42 PM

Wow, reading over that. It sounds like their service places suck pretty bad. Granted, that's not much different from many american cars we have now.

The second link, while unfortunate, actually looks like the vehicle was behaving appropriately. A log of US spec long haul trucks will do the same thing if they decide the engine is going to hurt it self, they just turn it off and refuse to let it start until the issue is taken care of. My mom (yes a truck driving mom) has had this happen at least 2x. Wresting a truck + 50ft trailer to the side of the road with a dead engine is not fun.

I still hope they bring it over. If someone doesn't prove out that there is a market for little diesel trucks we'll never get the hilux and whatnot. Heck, we still don't even get the Diesel JKs that are made in Ohio!

Jason

Gurkha

09-16-2009, 07:16 PM

The check engine light issue at high speed affects many, the sad part is the company gives that same old tired bull crap excuse to all and sends them away only for it to occur again at some given point when you are least expecting it. Being poorly sprung, the drive train is also prone to some real shocks leading to premature drive train failure if you intend to do some driving on rough roads. Let me reassert, it will never be in the same league or class of a Toyota Hi Lux in terms of finesse, performance, driveability, quality or reliability. The Hi Lux with D4D engine is a pleasure to drive. Not so with the Scorpio.

dzzz

09-20-2009, 04:04 PM

It seems the attraction is diesel. If they have good sales, wouldn't Toyota and Nissan begin selling diesels? I know I would pay $5K more for a diesel Toyota compared to Mahindra.
The 3/4 ton and up U.S. pickups have a diesel option. These aren't Tacoma competitors, but they are a good base for a bigger EV. Too bad GM cancelled their mid size diesel plan. Hopefully Ford will build a midsize diesel similar to the big diesel they are releasing in the spring.

theMec

09-21-2009, 02:21 AM

It seems the attraction is diesel.

Umm, yes, the attraction is better fuel mileage, engine longevity and torque - everyone's order is different.

Too bad GM cancelled their mid size diesel plan. Hopefully Ford will build a midsize diesel similar to the big diesel they are releasing in the spring.

Too bad all three (GM, Dodge & Ford) cancelled their midsize engines. I think all three engines were fully developed, or very close, also.

journey

10-04-2009, 12:49 AM

RMP&O

10-04-2009, 06:55 PM

Yep, size matters. For years and years I've been wanting a small truck that can carry a full ton plus fuel, driver and passengers. It seams that whenever I go get supplies it is usually close to a ton. A bed that can hold 7' t-posts with the tailgate closed would be nice. No worrying about them sliding out the back on steep inclines like I have on the farm.

Hey I am just cutting in here, I have not read all the previous pages or posts. But....

Have you thought about a PInzgauer? The 712 or 6x6 sounds exactly like what you need/want. They are 2-door, can carry a 7ft timber in the back, will climb any hill even in mud and they are small enough to fit on ATV trails.

scooby074

10-05-2009, 01:25 AM

I saw a Mahindra in person today. It was ugly, which made it charming. I was in the northern suburbs of Atlanta. It looked to be the same one pictured in the article from post #213. I am really hoping the American version has all the kinks worked out. The first year could make or break the mahindra's reputation in America and I really want a four door diesel.

Did the one you see have a "Push bar" on the front? Ive seen several pictures of the US spec models with a add on push bar i guess to meet crash specs, looks aweful IMHO. Pics here http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/09/spied-usspec-mahindra-tr40-diesel-pickup.html

journey

10-05-2009, 02:16 AM

The one I saw did not have a push bar. It looks better without it.

MDH33

10-05-2009, 02:27 AM

I saw a white 4 door in Breckenridge last week. I almost ran a stop light to chase it. I think they look great. Unique from other rigs on the road. I would, of course rather see Toyota bring the 70 series trucks over here, but I hope Mahindra does well.

78Bronco

10-05-2009, 06:33 AM

This truck would look so much better with a winch bumper to improve approach angle, etc. Designers and engineers still don't get it:Wow1: that current bumper is ugly and does nothing for function.

http://blogs.cars.com/.a/6a00d83451b3c669e20120a586033c970b-800wi

MDH33

10-05-2009, 06:27 PM

This truck would look so much better with a winch bumper to improve approach angle, etc. Designers and engineers still don't get it:Wow1: that current bumper is ugly and does nothing for function.

photo-chop for comparison. :)

http://mdhuber.smugmug.com/photos/671188026_BmPHN-O.jpg

Titanpat57

10-05-2009, 07:13 PM

photo-chop for comparison. :)

http://mdhuber.smugmug.com/photos/671188026_BmPHN-O.jpg

Damn that looks sweet!!

78Bronco

10-05-2009, 07:56 PM

before http://blogs.cars.com/.a/6a00d83451b3c669e20120a586033c970b-800wi

after

photo-chop for comparison. :)

http://mdhuber.smugmug.com/photos/671188026_BmPHN-O.jpg

Wicked... see what I mean? Looks a kazillion times better:smiley_drive: and I'm no fickin engineer making cake! These guys go to school for how long to design crap!...lol. Rant done.

journey

10-06-2009, 01:30 PM

With that bumber it looks like a side by side atv but a little bit bigger. I think the bumper and some bigger tires would makes a huge difference. It becomes burly instead of being simply "different."

scooby074

10-08-2009, 01:35 AM

+1 on the P'Chop.... MUCH better.:victory:

Storz

10-13-2009, 11:22 PM

Any more word on the SUV that might be heading state side?

the1jzahn

10-22-2009, 01:47 AM

...this posting on carrerbuilder.com (http://www.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobDetails.aspx?IPath=JRKV&ff=21&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=J8B3P46FXD9HDX65RPC). Can anyone with more knowledge of vehicle development over-analyze this job posting so we can have fun deciding if this vehicle will ever make it over here? :coffeedrink:

Some things I noticed.

Under the requirements section they state, "Knowledge of vehicle crash regulations in USA, Europe & India." Why would you need a knowledge of the USA regs if it were not the 4x4 pickup we have been speaking about for these last 25 pages? Is this a common requirement, or is this for sure working on the pickup destined for our shores?

I am not qualified for this job.

The pay is in INDIA currency. This is is why I will not apply.

If this is for the US destined pickup, does this mean they are just a little behind schedule?

How far off base am I in my thinking so far?

haven

10-22-2009, 05:30 AM

The Mahindra USA web site now has a sales brochure with specs.
The web site is here http://www.mahindrana.com
Download the PDF here: http://www.mahindrana.com/pdf/specsheet.pdf

2010 Mahindra TR20 4x4 2 Door Pickup, standard trim

MSRP $24,000 ? (my guess)
Engine 2.2L turbo diesel
Power 140 hp, 236 lb-ft
EPA mpg 30 mpg highway

Automatic transmission 6 speeds
Manual transmission n/a
4WD system part time
locking center diff N
Locking diff (f/r) N?
Tire 245/75 R 16
Full size spare Y

Electronic Stability Control Y
Traction Control Y
4-wheel ABS Y
Tire Pressure Monitor System Y

Overall height 71.8 inches
Overall width 69.7
Overall length 206.7
Wheelbase 119.7
Track ?
Turning Circle (ft) ?

Head room 42
Shoulder room 57
Hip room 53.5
Leg room 41

Seating capacity 2

Skid Plates ?
Clearance angles (degrees) 36/18/21
Ground clearance (in.) 8.3
Rear axle ratio ?
Transfer case ratios ?

Curb weight (lb.) 4400
GVWR (lb.) 6945
Cargo Capacity 2545
Towing capacity ?
Pickup box 7.5 ft
Fuel tank capacity (US gal) 19

Warranty 4 years, 60,000 miles bumper to bumper

Air Conditioning, power locks standard
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player w/ USB input