Ssangyong Tivoli to XUV300

INTRODUCTION-Mahindra by the start of 2019 has aimed at grabbing Indian compact SUV market by the launch of XUV300. The design is derived from Ssangyong Tivoli platform, self-owned by Mahindra. The unknown fact i.e., design test is specially performed by PININFARINA, the company that is associated with FERRARI in the 1960s currently owned by Mahindra. Price is maintained within 7.9-11.44 lakhs comprising of the base variant to top variant on a monocoque chassis being the rivalry to Maruti Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon and Ford Ecosport. The company has focused on giving at-most features with at least price possible capable of taking the Indian market defeating its rivals serving its purpose to the fullest.

ENGINE SPECS - XUV300 comes with automatic XUV300 comes with a 1.5-litre diesel engine with 123 bhp and 300Nm of torque. Mahindra and Ssangyong co-developed with some sort of alteration, the brand all-new 1.2-litre TGDI petrol engine with 100bhp and 150Nm.

EXTERIOR-It features automatic LED headlamps with DRLs, fog lamp cluster, sunroof, roof mounted spoiler, outer edges of headlights flow down the fog lights resembling the cheetah's face with aggression and dynamic appeal from the front. According to me, the front look is derived from its parent version XUV500. Wheelbase remains unaltered to Tivoli with 17-inch alloy with sharp cuts, chrome and black finish. The contrast roof design, roof rails at the front and uniquely fly off to the trailing edge similar to that of Vitara Brezza. It is provided with keyless entry & electrically adjustable ORVMs.

INTERIOR-This model will be known for its loaded feature starting from the modern infotainment system with 7.0-inch touchscreen, with audio supporting android auto, Apple Carplay. It has a multi-functioning steering wheel, with cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, push button start, rear AC vents, adjustable head restraints, leather upholstery, & plenty of storage spaces, USB ports. The furnishing dashboard enhanced look with black dominated top, centre console & inside door handles. The lower section is finished with a light cream colour, leather faux seats with front centre armrest. Its boot space is upto 384litre with rear foldable seats, giving a average mileage upto 19Kmpl.

SAFETY- Although its a Tivoli concept, to hold the market of its segment XUV300 must focus on the safety features which is up to the mark & must be updated. It features 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child mounts, Electronically Stability Control(ESC), hill-hold function, front and reverse parking sensors.

Mahindra will be launching by 2020, its electric model powered by a 380-volt system from a 150Kw battery having a 250Km driving range.

PREMIUM SUV BY TATA (HARRIER)

INTRODUCTION-H5X the concept showcased by TATA at the Autoexpo in February 2018, launched within a year as HARRIER in the Indian market as one of the cheapest premium C-segment SUV based on Land Rover D8 platform. Instead of using this platform, the cost is maintained within 12.69-16.25 lakhs as compared to its competition such as Creta and Jeep Compass. The investment in research and development on the platform is reduced as Land Rover which is self-owned by Tata. They have discontinued multilink setup due to its huge cost rather used own twist blade setup and body also used high strength steel instead of aluminium. The engine powered by 2.0 litre Kryotec has been bought from fiat shared by Jeep Compass. Harrier has 16V four cylinder Turbo Diesel with CRDI, VGT, produces 140HP of maximum power & 350Nm of torque between 1750 - 2500 rpm.

EXTERIOR- Reviewing from the exterior, our vision remains struck within the front razor sharp LED DRLs with edgy front considered as mimic eyebrows giving it a dynamic appeal. The projector lamp and cluster fog lamp finds its position on the lower part of the bumper. The aggression and sporty look is suited by the glossy black grille ahead instead of chrome grille.

Now going down with 17-inch alloy wheels with 235 section rubber fill up the wheel arches making it simple and cheaper inducing a muscular appeal to the highly loaded modern facility vehicle making a beast within this range beating Creta in certain featuristic aspects. The much-appreciated concept from which it is derived from copied its edgy design approach & tail light seems to run across the body.

   The captivating look with mind-boggling design by its creators is going to give a new life to Tata in the SUV market & will attract the consumers giving a tough competition not only in its segment but also in the segment above. 

INTERIOR -Stepping inside the cabin lacks the premium features as compared to the exterior but the dashboard with a soft touch material at the top and faux wood finish along with an aluminium- brush finish may give a semi-premium touch. The infotainment system by Harman with 8.8-inch touch-screen, supporting android auto & Apple CarPlay with 10 JBL speakers giving it a lively experience ever. Then comes the multi-info display featuring analogue speedometer and a tachometer. The sleek drive modes provided by harrier i.e., Eco, City & Sport along with traction control in addition to that the Terrain Response System with a choice of Normal, Rough & Wet modes. Audio, Phone & Cruise controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel. The rear and front seats have generous legroom and headroom even for tall occupants along with comfortable thigh support. Long distance journey would be viable with loads of baggage in 425-l boot space, 810 litres of volume with the rear seat folded down.

SAFETY- TATA holds the top position in terms of safety in the Indian market as well as the global market in its vehicle. Harrier is equipped with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold and descent control and rollover mitigation. After Nexon being the first Indian car to score 5 stars in global NCAP safety tests, the expectation from consumers has increased due to which proper care is taken for harrier.

FLAWS- Despite being loaded with features, certain expectations may be in demand as compared to others in its segment as that of compass and creta, there are certain cons of harrier such as- 

1. Absence of sunroof

2. absence of rear disc brakes

3. dual zone climate control

4. automatic gearbox

5. four-wheel drive system

6. The electric power steering system instead of the hydraulic steering system

Some issues related to the features, since the launch of the vehicle, are the notchy gear shifts and engine refinement as well as issues with the response of touch screen, etc.

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