Mahindra’s upcoming Vision S-based SUV has been spotted testing again in India, and the latest spy shots finally reveal some of the biggest talking points for buyers: a diesel engine paired with an automatic gearbox, plus a panoramic sunroof on a test vehicle that appears to be a mid-spec variant.
What the new spy shots confirm
The clearest giveaway that this test mule is a diesel comes from the AdBlue filler cap next to the fuel port, which typically indicates a BS6 Phase-2 diesel setup. Inside, the gear lever confirms an automatic transmission on this specific test car, making it a notable combo in the sub-4m SUV space where diesel-automatic options are still relatively rare.
Cabin: Concept-like layout, but practical controls stay
Even though the vehicle looks like a mid-level trim (fabric seats, standard Mahindra steering wheel, and other cues), the overall cabin layout stays close to what Mahindra previewed in the Vision S concept. You can spot the distinctive vertical air-con vents and a large central infotainment screen, and importantly, there are physical controls for key functions instead of going fully touch-only.
Panoramic sunroof + rear-seat usability
One feature that stands out is the panoramic sunroof, which (based on what’s visible) stretches close to the rear headrests. Rear-seat practicality also looks like a priority: adjustable headrests for all three passengers and a 60:40 split rear seat have been mentioned based on the spy images.
Design direction: boxy, rugged, “compact but tough”
The Vision S test mule continues with an upright, squared-off silhouette that leans more “rugged SUV” than soft crossover. Carandbike describes the proportions as upright with prominent haunches, and the overall stance suggests Mahindra is aiming for a tough, lifestyle look while keeping it compact enough for urban use.
Platform and timeline: production expected around 2027
As per Carandbike, the Vision S-based SUV is expected to sit on a new platform designed to support multiple powertrains and drivetrains (including all-wheel drive), and it’s being engineered for both right-hand-drive and left-hand-drive markets. The same report also notes that the production model could arrive by 2027.
Expected engines (what’s being reported)
Reports suggest Mahindra could offer:
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Diesel options (the spied vehicle is diesel, and diesel-automatic is the headline)
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Petrol options, possibly including Mahindra’s 1.2L turbo petrol seen on the XUV 3XO lineup
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A 1.5L diesel has also been discussed as a likely candidate (similar family of engines used in Mahindra’s lineup)
Why this matters for buyers
If Mahindra brings a diesel-automatic with a panoramic sunroof into a compact SUV footprint, it instantly becomes a spec-sheet outlier. Add the boxy stance and practical interior approach (physical buttons + usable rear features), and it’s shaping up like a product that’s trying to blend “rugged” with “family-friendly” rather than going all-in on one theme.
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