Why Jeep Rivals Are Watching Mahindra SUVs Gain Global Attention

While the automotive world’s eyes were fixed on Monterey’s supercars, Mahindra staged a quiet revolution in India. The automaker unveiled four striking concept vehicles, providing the clearest look yet at its future SUV lineup, all riding on a revolutionary new platform designed for global markets.

These concepts—the Vision.T, Vision.SXT, Vision.S, and Vision.X—preview production models slated for a 2027 launch. They represent the bold application of Mahindra’s “Heartcore” design philosophy and, most importantly, are the first vehicles built on the brand’s new, highly flexible NU_IQ architecture. This platform is engineered to support gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains, marking a pivotal step in Mahindra’s strategy to compete on the world stage.

The NU_IQ Platform: Engineering for a Global Future

The foundation of Mahindra’s ambitious plan is the NU_IQ platform. This isn’t just another chassis; it’s a modular system designed for maximum versatility. According to Mahindra’s announcement on August 18, 2025, the architecture can accommodate front- and all-wheel-drive layouts and is engineered for both left- and right-hand drive configurations—a critical feature for export beyond India.

The platform will underpin future SUVs measuring between 3,990 and 4,320 mm (157.1 to 170.1 inches) in length, with a standardized wheelbase of 2,610 mm (102.8 inches). Mahindra claims this engineering enables a commanding driving position, a spacious cabin with best-in-class cargo space, and a flat floor even in internal combustion engine (ICE) variants. The company also emphasizes that the architecture prioritizes lightweight construction and incorporates advanced safety features to meet stringent global standards.

Vision.T and SXT: The Indian Answer to the Jeep

The most rugged of the concepts, the Vision.T SUV and Vision.SXT pickup, immediately draw comparisons to a futuristic Jeep Wrangler. These models are evolutionary descendants of the 2023 Thar.e concept but appear far more production-ready.

Both feature aggressive, boxy proportions, sharp grilles with integrated LED lighting, pronounced fenders, and serious off-road credentials thanks to all-terrain tires and high ground clearance. The key difference is the bodystyle: the Vision.T is a five-door SUV, while the Vision.SXT is a four-door pickup with a short bed that uniquely houses two full-size spare wheels. Inside, a tall, portrait-oriented touchscreen dominates the center console, complemented by a digital instrument cluster and an overhead panel of physical switches for auxiliary functions, hinting at their serious off-road intent.

Vision.S and X: Expanding the SUV Family

The other two concepts show Mahindra’s design range. The Vision.S presents a compact, rugged form reminiscent of a mini Land Rover Defender. Its utilitarian vibe is amplified by functional elements like roof-mounted LEDs, a roof rack, a side ladder, and a rear-mounted spare tire. The interior suggests a more practical approach with two digital displays separated by central air vents and a greater number of physical controls.

In contrast, the Vision.X is the athlete of the group. It features sleeker, sculpted surfaces, slim LED lights, and a sportier profile with contrasting black accents. Its interior, with a curved digital cockpit and a modern two-spoke steering wheel, points toward the future design direction for Mahindra’s XUV and XEV families of vehicles.

The Road to 2027

Mahindra’s unveiling is more than a design exercise; it’s a declaration of intent. The production versions of these NU_IQ-based vehicles are expected to begin rolling out in 2027, starting in the Indian market before expanding to international audiences. This strategic move positions Mahindra to become a significant player in the global SUV market, offering a diverse range of capable vehicles ready for any energy transition.

These four concepts are not mere fantasies; they are a calculated blueprint for Mahindra’s future. By betting on a flexible platform and bold, distinctive design, the Indian automaker is poised to challenge established global brands with a new generation of Mahindra Vision SUVs that are as versatile in their powertrains as they are in their capability. Keep an eye on this ambitious rollout starting in 2027.

Must Know

What is Mahindra’s new NU_IQ platform?
The NU_IQ is a new flexible vehicle architecture developed by Mahindra. It is designed to support a wide range of powertrains, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and fully electric systems. It also accommodates both left- and right-hand drive configurations for global markets.

When will the production Mahindra Vision SUVs be available?
Mahindra has announced that production versions of the concepts revealed in August 2025 are slated to go on sale starting in 2027. The initial launch is expected to occur in India before the vehicles are offered in other international markets.

What are the different Mahindra Vision concepts?
Mahindra unveiled four concepts: the rugged Vision.T SUV, the Vision.SXT pickup truck, the compact and utilitarian Vision.S, and the sporty Vision.X. Each previews a different type of production vehicle that will join Mahindra’s lineup.

Will the new Mahindra SUVs be electric?
The new NU_IQ platform is capable of housing fully electric powertrains. While Mahindra will likely offer traditional engine options, the architecture ensures that electric versions of these new SUVs can be produced, aligning with global trends towards electrification.

How do the new concepts compare to the current Mahindra Thar?
The Vision.T and Vision.SXT are evolutionary designs based on the earlier Thar.e concept. They are expected to be more modern, sophisticated, and technologically advanced production models that will expand the family alongside the existing Thar and Thar Roxx.