Mahindra is going HiLux hunting!

The new-generation Mahindra pick-up is targeting the biggest names in the dual-cab ute segment when it launches by mid-2026.

The yet-to-be-named, all-new body-on-frame model from the Indian maker has benchmark-level expectations, with executives at the brand stating the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger are among the models being cross-referenced in the development of the new double-cab 4x4 ute.

Mahindra unveiled the striking Global Pik-Up concept last August (main image). In a separate interview with Wheels, the company said it would "carry a lot of those [concept] visions into production".

The new ute will come with petrol and diesel powertrains, with the latter expected for Australia.

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2024 Mahindra PikUp rendering | WhichCar.com.au

Mahindra has stated unequivocally that the new model will be offered with the maximum braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes

That engine is expected to be a take on the existing 2.2-litre mHawk four-cylinder used in the Scorpio off-road SUV, with expected outputs of around 140kW and 450Nm. It could come with a six-speed manual option, but a six-speed auto is expected to be the mainstay of the range.

As with the Scorpio, the new ute model will be built on a sturdy ladder-frame chassis with a longer wheelbase and different overhangs for the purpose of load-lugging. Expect leaf-spring rear suspension and a multi-link double-wishbone front setup.

Mahindra has stated unequivocally that the new model will be offered with the maximum braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes (the Scorpio-N is rated at 2.5 tonnes). A number of body styles – including single-cab and dual-cab – are expected.

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The Indian maker admits it needs to get it right from a safety-rating perspective, and is promising a five-star ANCAP rating.

Joydeep Moitra, head of APAC for Mahindra Auto, said the project has multiple key considerations that the brand considers to be non-negotiables.

“The global pick-up is planned with a diesel powertrain – alternate powertrains will be seen in future,” said Mr Moitra. “There will be a petrol for some of the petrol markets. But primarily for a ute, you're expecting 3.5-tonne towing. You won't get that with a petrol,” he said.

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2023 Mahindra Pik-Up

But expect the diesel models to be a bit pricier than the current Pik-Up. Moitra reckons diesels are about to take a step up in price due to new technologies needed for emissions offset targets.

Mr Moitra said the upcoming Euro 6d requirements (and Euro 7 thereafter) mean it will be more costly for powertrain development, leading to a flow-on effect in the showroom.

He said “the value proposition may be at risk at some stage” for diesel powertrains, but he sees diesel being vital for the brand’s success in markets like Australia.

“Intrinsically diesels are good as towing vehicles, and Australian consumers love to tow, they have these lovely boats and horse carriages and RVs that they need to tow. I can't see them sacrificing their lifestyle, just because diesels became more expensive,” he said.

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2023 Mahindra Scorpio

While the new model is “at least two years of solid work” from reality, Mr Moitra said the company will work closely with its Australian arm, and its local dealer network, to make sure the business case makes the best sense.

“Clearly there's a huge amount of work that's required in the design phase. And then the validation - it takes us about six to eight months of validation in Australia for each of the products,” he said of the recently-launched XUV700 seven-seater and Scorpio 4x4 SUV.

“They have gone through almost 100,000 kilometres of testing in Australia prior to the launch, and they were tested out by our dealer partners,” said Mr Moitra. “That takes time. So we will not short-circuit the timeframe that is required for doing all of this testing.

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Mahindra VUV700

“We make sure that everything is done, tested, we are thorough and we are very clear about this, and then bring the product into the market,” he said.

“Yes, the global pick-up will be five-star, so whatever is required, whatever number of airbags is required to get it into five-star, will be there. It's as simple as that,” he said. “Now, yes, we got into Australia [with XUV700 and Scorpio], we got these products in the market, but whatever new things are coming up [including the new ute and EV range] they are all built to that [five-star ANCAP] level.”

More news on the Mahindra new-generation pick-up is expected in 2024.