India’s Mahindra has unveiled a new midsize pickup that aims to challenge the Toyota Hilux with a much lower price and Ford Ranger-inspired interior.
This pickup is a direct continuation of the Global Pik Up concept shown three years ago. The production version retains the recognizable silhouette of its predecessor, with a double cab and a dynamic body line that rises toward the rear. However, engineers went further with the details. LED lighting with a sharp graphic and a huge Mahindra badge on the tailgate give the truck a modern, recognizable look. Judging by the teasers, the dashboard is inspired by the Ford Ranger. A large infotainment screen dominates the cabin, positioned vertically between the air vents, while the center console and steering wheel retain familiar physical buttons and a transmission dial. The pickup is expected to inherit the 540-degree surround-view camera system and modern Level 2 driver-assistance suite from the recently updated Scorpio-N SUV.
The truck is built on a reinforced body-on-frame chassis. According to unofficial information, it is a modified and lengthened version of the Scorpio-N platform, adapted for heavier loads. Under the hood, the pickup will most likely get a proven 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine paired with either a manual or automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
But Mahindra’s main, and perhaps only, trump card is the price. In India, the new pickup is expected to cost between 1.8 million and 2.3 million rupees, which converts to roughly $20,500-$26,200. For comparison, the Toyota Hilux starts at 3.2 million rupees in the same market, or about $36,500. The Indian automaker does not intend to limit the truck to the domestic market. The new model is being prepared for an international expansion, including countries with harsh climates and poor roads where reliable, affordable body-on-frame trucks are in demand. All technical details and official specifications will be revealed this Friday.