The Mahindra Imperio is based on the Xylo platform and gets a more upmarket profile with additional features while power continues from the same 2.5-litre diesel engine.
Adding some upmarket appeal to the commercial segment, Mahindra has officially launched the new Imperio pickup in the market with prices starting at Rs. 6.25 lakhs (ex-showroom, Thane) for the BS-III version. Based on the Xylo platform, the new pickup goes upmarket in terms of design while the cabin has been tweaked in favour of improved occupant comfort. The automaker is targeting the small and medium business sector as the Imperio will be locking horns with the Isuzu D-Max, Tata Xenon and the likes in the segment.
Design – On the outset, the Mahindra Imperio has gone premium with the muscular hood and the bold new toothed grille taking centre stage. The front fascia is further spruced up by the new headlight cluster while the massive circular enclosures for the fog lamps and large air intakes help the bumper stand out. Given its similarities with the Genio, things don’t change much post the A-pillar with the same door and loading bay doing duty on the Imperio as well. The pickup rides on 16-inch wheels.
Interiors – Inside the cabin, the overall layout remains largely the same as the Genio but Mahindra has gone a step further to provide improved comfort with front bucket seats while the second row gets fixed bench seat with nap rest. The pickup comes with the essentials including an audio system, power windows, follow-me-home lights, keyless entry, central locking, power steering and telematics compatibility on the VX trim. The payload capacity stands at 1240 kgs. There are no safety features save for seatbelts and head restraints on the model.
Engine – Power on the Mahindra Imperio comes from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel motor tuned to churn out 75 HP and 220 Nm of torque, paired to a 5-speed gearbox, sending power to the rear wheels. The top speed is rated at 120 km/hr. This is the same motor that does duty on the Genio as well and gets the fuel smart technology to reduce fuel consumption. As a result, there are two modes on offer – Eco (7% more frugal) and Power with the latter to be used when the vehicle is loaded.
Fuel Efficiency – The fuel economy on the Mahindra Imperio is rated at 13.55 km/l.
The Imperio was designed and developed at the Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai while production takes place at the Chakan based facility. The automaker has already commenced deliveries of the Imperio across the country and is offering a warranty period of 3 years/1 lakh kms, whichever is earlier. The new Imperio will help Mahindra further consolidate its 53 percent market share in the LCV segment.
Mahindra Imperio BS-III Prices (ex-showroom, Thane) –
* Imperio Single Cab Base – Rs. 6.25 lakhs
* Imperio Single Cab VX – Rs. 6.60 lakhs
* Imperio Double Cab Base – Rs. 6.60 lakhs
* Imperio Double Cab VX – Rs. 7.12 lakhs
Mahindra Imperio BS-IV Prices (ex-showroom, Mumbai) –
* Imperio Single Cab Base – Rs. 6.40 lakhs
* Imperio Single Cab VX – Rs. 6.75 lakhs
* Imperio Double Cab Base – Rs. 6.75 lakhs
* Imperio Double Cab VX – Rs. 7.27 lakhs
