Mahindra Vision S test mule spotted on Indian roads with a diesel automatic engine and panoramic sunroof, hinting at sub-4m SUV launch by 2027 on NU_IQ platform.
Mahindra Vision S test mule spotted on Indian roads with a diesel automatic engine [Photo: X]
A near-production version of the Mahindra Vision S has been spotted testing on Indian roads, giving the first glimpse of the upcoming compact SUV that’s set to debut by 2027.
The heavily camouflaged test mule closely mirrors the bold design of the Vision S concept showcased by Mahindra last year, but with several practical updates pointing toward its production form. These sightings underline Mahindra’s push to bring its next-generation SUV closer to reality.
Recent spy shots show a boxy, rugged silhouette with squared wheel arches and an upright stance, traits that defined the Vision S concept revealed at Mahindra’s Freedom NU event in August 2025. The test vehicle’s profile suggests a sub-4-metre SUV size, making it competitive in India’s popular compact SUV segment.
The test mule also displays a tailgate-mounted spare wheel and rugged body cladding, reinforcing its adventure-ready look. Front design cues, such as circular LED headlamps and a vertically slatted grille, give it a modern yet bold character while retaining the concept’s overall presence.
One of the most significant updates from recent spy shots is the confirmation of a diesel automatic powertrain. The presence of an AdBlue filler cap and an automatic gear lever inside the cabin clearly indicates a BS6 Phase-2 diesel engine paired with an automatic gearbox, a combination that remains rare in the sub-4m SUV segment and could give Vision S a notable edge.
This powertrain option aligns with Mahindra’s strategy to offer robust performance alongside practical everyday usability. The SUV is expected to share powertrain options with other Mahindra models on the NU_IQ platform, including modern petrol and potentially hybrid variants in the future.
Spy shots of the interior show that even this mid-spec variant comes with a panoramic sunroof, a premium feature uncommon in its segment and likely to attract buyers looking for more value.
Inside, the Vision S mule features fabric upholstery and a conventional steering wheel, indicating this isn’t the top-end trim. However, the dashboard layout retains key elements from the concept, including well-positioned air vents and an upright instrument panel — giving the cabin a fresh, practical feel.
The test car also appears to have physical buttons for climate and infotainment controls, which help with everyday usability. Rear seating looks comfortable with adjustable headrests and a 60:40 split bench, suggesting good passenger space ahead of the official launch.
The Vision S test mule retains many of the concept’s distinctive design cues, including its boxy stance, muscular lines, and strong proportions, hinting that Mahindra plans to stay true to its original Vision S identity.
The transition from concept to production seems to be progressing steadily, with each new sighting revealing more production-ready details like conventional ORVMs and practical design touches.
Despite camouflage, the SUV’s strong shoulder line, prominent grille and squared wheel arches all signal a rugged yet modern look that could appeal to Indian SUV buyers seeking both style and substance.
Mahindra has confirmed that the Vision S will be built on its new NU_IQ modular platform, which supports multiple powertrains, including petrol, diesel, electric and possibly hybrid options. This flexible architecture will underpin several upcoming SUVs, enabling front- and all-wheel-drive configurations and offering a sizeable cabin space thanks to its flat-floor design.
The NU_IQ platform marks a strategic shift for Mahindra, bringing a modern, modular base to a range of future SUVs while helping reduce development time and costs.
Production of Vision S is widely expected to begin ahead of a 2027 launch, making it one of the earliest models from Mahindra’s new-generation SUV portfolio. While official pricing hasn’t been announced, industry observers predict aggressive positioning to compete with rivals like the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet in the compact SUV segment.
Mahindra may also offer a wide range of variants and powertrains, which could help broaden its appeal to both urban and rugged SUV buyers.
The Vision S is shaping up to be a strong contender in India’s sub-4m SUV space, thanks to its combination of rugged design, versatile powertrain options, premium features like a panoramic sunroof, and the flexibility offered by the NU_IQ platform.
If Mahindra can balance pricing with performance and equipment, the Vision S could become a hot favourite among buyers looking for a capable and modern SUV.
With ongoing testing and increasing spy sightings on public roads, the countdown to the Vision S’s official rollout is well underway — and SUV fans have plenty to look forward to in the coming months.
