Truth be told, when the Mahindra cars first hit the road where not a pretty sight. They also had a myriad of technical problems, giving the owner one headache after another. But all that is in the past as Mahindra went back to the drawing board to bring out some of the most attraction vehicles, with comforts of modern day motoring.
Born out of this restrategising is the Mahindra KUV100, which offers everything one needs in a car: up-to-date technology, comfort, safety and the body to die for. KUV100 arouses curiosity as it cruises by, making people wonder if they had seen a biggish hatchback or a Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) or a crossover of the two.
The KUV100 is strongly built, albeit with fine touches. It therefore qualifies for the category of compact SUVs, more so with its tall and wide appearance. The KUV100 however is not very keen to be boxed like that, boasting features which give it now wow thing about it. These include striking colours, wraparound headlamps, trendy daytime running lamps and chrome-accented front and rear fog lamps.
The KUV100s good looks are further enhanced with the distinctive high-line rear door handles, sporty spider-design alloy wheels, rear spoiler and stylish roof rails, whilst protective cladding on the sides of the body and on the wheel arches complete the authentic SUV look.
Technology
The KUV100 is all about comfort and convenience designed with you in mind, and backed up by accessible technology at every level. The infotainment centre with integrated driver information system and crystal-clear TFT display provides for Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, hands-free calling and steering-mounted controls for audio and phone. There are 12V power outlets in both front and second row.
Safety
The KUV100 is all about safety too, with dual front airbags, child safety locks on the rear doors, and automatic hazard lights on emergency braking. The robust monocoque construction envelops the driver and their passengers in a protective frame whilst ensuring superior ride and handling. Anti-lock braking (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Corner Braking Control (CBC) is standard across all variants. Dual rear fog lamps will ensure you are visible in low-visibility conditions. For personal safety, all the doors feature puddle lamps to illuminate your getting in-and-out of the vehicle in the dark, whilst the time-delayed follow-me-home headlamps will remain on long enough to show you the way to your door. Speed-sensing door locks will keep you and your passengers safe, and the factory fitted engine immobiliser and security alarm will help to deter the criminal element.
Engines
The KUV100 is powered by the all-new mFalcon engines developed by Mahindra in both petrol and diesel options, and built to deliver high low-end torque to ensure responsive performance and great fuel economy.
KUV 100 PerformanceThe KUV100 is offered with a choice of petrol and turbo diesel engines. Petrol models are equipped with the three-cylinder mFalcon G80, featuring multipoint fuel injection and dual variable valve timing. Micro-hybrid technology (engine start/stop) ensures higher fuel efficiency, whilst Power/ECO mode available in the diesel K8 allows you to choose how you’d like to drive. The power package is complemented with Cayman Dynamics tuned suspension to provide superior ride and handling wherever you go.
Comfort
The sporty front seats with integrated headrests provide wrap around comfort, whilst adjustable headrests are provided for the three passengers in the rear (K6+ and K8). The driver’s seat is height adjustable and the steering wheel is also tiltable to ensure driving comfort. Electric power steering comes as standard on all variants.
Detailing abounds for a vehicle in this class, with illuminated key ring and remote keyless entry, coin holder and driver’s footrest, cupholders in the armrests, one-litre bottle holders in all doors and even a cooled glove box. The KUV 100 also provides innovative under floor storage space. And when there’s a lot to cart about, the rear seat folds flat to create additional carrying space.
Prices
K4+ Petrol R 149,995
K6+ Petrol R 169,995
K6+ Diesel R 187,995
K8 Petrol R 179,995
K8 Diesel R 197,995
Pricing includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty on all models, and a three-year/50 000 km service plan on the K6+ and K8 derivatives (optional for K4+).
Mahindra hits all the high notes with KUV100
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