Next-generation Mahindra ute coming in 2027

A new generation Mahindra ute is due in 2027, and the company has boldly claimed it aims to target the market dominated by the top-selling Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger pick-ups.

According to the global head of Mahindra Automobiles, Mr Veejay Nakra, the upcoming Mahindra will use the Scorpio four-wheel drive wagon as a starting point, but will be distinctly different to the brand’s current outdated, agricultural ute.

The current Mahidra PikUp – which recently picked up the option of a six-speed automatic transmission – is smaller and more rudimentary than most mainstream four-wheel-drive utes, and is aimed at agricultural users.

However, Mr Nakram told Australian motoring media Mahindra’s forthcoming ute will be “truly global”, and will get Australian input during the design and engineering process.

“The kind of local insights that we require to adapt the product, while it is a global pickup for Australia, we would work with our local channel parters, with the customers of Australia to bring all of those insights into creating the global pickup,” said Mr Nakram.

The connection between the new Mahindra Scorpio SUV and the new ute will allow for sharing common parts and components, but Mr Nakra explained that load and towing capacities could be changed to suit the needs of a workhorse.

Currently, the Mahindra Scorpio has a 2500kg braked towing capacity and 510kg payload, and uses a 129kW/400Nm 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine.

Mr Nakra said the upcoming ute would be a ‘full-scale life-size pick-up’ that aims to compete with the likes of the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger.

“I don’t think we would make a product that is not a brand fit who we are, and our brand fit is always about offering more at great value,” said Mr Nakra.

While Mr Nakra wouldn’t confirm engine details for their upcoming ute, he said Mahindra would consider multiple options.

However, the executive singled out a diesel engine as a priority for the upcoming ute, and said an electric or electrified ute "has to make economic sense".

“I don’t think the consumer chooses the (engine) to be climate conscious, versus the economics of the purchase, the rationale choice,” he said.

"I think we need to see at what point in time the cost of batteries and the cost of an (electric motor and battery pack), with the range that one gets and the load capacity. The charging infrastructure, I think there are multiple pieces of the jigsaw that need to fall into place."