Classical butch styling is what one gets with the Mahindra Alturas G4, a vehicle which marks the entry of M&M into the premium 7-seater SUV segment. Also, the Alturas is being sold with the Mahindra logo instead of the erstwhile SsangYong badge in front. What remains to be seen is how it holds up in a segment that has competitors of the pedigree of Ford Endeavour and Toyota Fortuner.
Exterior design
The Alturas possesses the dimensions of a large SUV, and its wheelbase (2865 mm) is actually longer than the Fortuner. In contrast to the aggressive and mean styling at the front of the Fortuner, one sees a rather elegant, yet rugged front fascia here. Clean lines of design surround the entire SUV beautifully, and roof rails add character.
At the front, one gets the large trapezoid grille with the Mahindra logo in the centre. While the 4x2 variant gets projector headlamps, the 4x4 variant has been fitted with HID lamps. Tail lights are simple and well designed. The only anomaly one sees is the vehicle’s name being stuck below the number plate, which should ideally be on one side of the rear.
Interior features
Interiors are of premium quality in the Alturas, with Nappa leather being visible on the dashboard and on the seats. The steering wheel comes stitched with a black and red steering cover, giving a sleek appearance. Interestingly, one may have expected a steering wheel in a car of this segment to be heavy, but it is surprisingly light. Its turning radius of 5.5 m makes it easier to turn than the Toyota Fortuner (5.75 m).
Seats in the vehicle can be adjusted in 4 different ways. Visibility is really good in the Alturas, with no obstructing A-Pillar. What is nice to see that the entire length of the bonnet is actually visible from the driver’s seat, which seems to be a rarity in most cars these days.
Three rows of seats are available in the Alturas, where the front seats are ventilated. The second row has a good amount of legroom, and there is decent space for two individuals in the third row as well. Storage space is adequately available, with a large and deep armrest console.
Mahindra Alturas G4 4x4 AT comes with Dual Climate Control. What this means is that two separate temperatures can be set for the driver and the co-passenger. However, the driver’s AC settings will be the one applicable to the second and third rows.
An 8” infotainment system has been fitted in this SUV. It allows you to use GPS navigation, audio via USB, and also allows you to connect your phone. You can charge your phone via a 12V socket in this vehicle.
Drive
One of the best areas for the Mahindra Alturas has to be its transmission, which is a Mercedes 7-speed automatic gearbox. No lags are felt when the car moves upwards from a lower gear. Hit the accelerator lightly and the Alturas is more than eager to move forward. No body rolls are experienced while taking corners at all. NVH levels are excellent for a vehicle of this class, and it is only when you open the windows that you realize how quiet the cabin actually is.
The 2.2L diesel engine, sourced from Ssangyong, generates 178 bhp of power and 420 Nm of torque. All brakes are disc brakes, generating sufficient stopping power for a vehicle of this size.
Features for safety
In terms of safety, the following features have been provided in the Mahindra Alturas G4:
- 9 airbags
- ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
- Hill start assist
- Active rollover protection
- Traction control
- ISOFIX child safety seat anchor points
Verdict
A vehicle which is an absolute joy to drive, Mahindra sure has a winner on its hands with the all new Alturas G4. Though it was always considered very difficult to beat the Toyota Fortuner, this sure is a very worthy competitor. Even the Fortuner experiences greater body roll than this car. At a starting price of INR 33.26 lakhs (on-road, new Delhi), it sure is an excellent option for those who may be looking at alternatives to the Endeavour and the Fortuner.
