Triton brings the challenge to competitors
The bakkie war has intensified with the local launch of Mitsubishi’s next-generation Triton, an evolution in the iconic bakkie’s 46-year legacy.
- Product News
- 21 November 2024
Mahindra is celebrating two decades in the South African automotive industry. Since its entry into South Africa in 2004 with the launch of the Mahindra Bolero, the group has been a key player in the local automotive market.
Over the last 20 years, the brand steadily introduced new models and expanded its presence, while it consistently invested in its support infrastructure, dealer network and training facilities.
In 2005, the Mahindra Scorpio debuted, followed by the Pik Up in 2007. These rugged models laid the foundation for Mahindra’s growth, and in 2011 the XUV500 arrived.
In 2018, Mahindra opened its first South African assembly facility at Dube Trade Port in Durban, further solidifying its commitment to local production. With this investment, Mahindra solidified its promise to make South Africa its second home outside India.
With the roll-out of its 20 000th locally assembled vehicle in 2024, Mahindra showcased its continued strong focus on the country. At the celebration of this milestone, Mahindra announced its plans to build a much larger assembly plant nearby, giving it additional capacity to meet the local market demand.
Since opening its assembly facility, Mahindra has seen remarkable success, with sales growing at a compound annual rate of 27%. Today, the brand has 95 dedicated dealerships across South Africa and is on track to welcome its 100 000th customer soon.
Mahindra’s journey in South Africa is a story of evolution. The brand, initially known for its bakkies such as the Bolero and Pik Up, has now positioned itself as a strong contender in the SUV segment with models like the XUV700, Scorpio-N and now, the XUV 3XO.
At the heart of Mahindra’s anniversary celebration is the launch of the XUV 3XO, the latest addition to Mahindra’s next-generation of SUVs. Featuring cutting-edge technology, the XUV 3XO is powered by a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine and segment-leading dual, floating high-resolution screens—a 10.25” digital cluster and a 10.25” infotainment system.
The XUV 3XO also offers advanced safety features, including industry-first six airbags as standard across the range, segment-first electronic stability program (ESP) standard on all variants, and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with ten standard safety features.
With prices starting at R254 999, the XUV 3XO has already attracted significant attention. The first consignment for South Africa is fully booked, with deliveries in full swing. Mahindra has also ensured that the XUV 3XO reflects its signature blend of value for money, quality and performance, with features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 65W laptop charging, and a Harman Kardon Premium Audio system in the top variants.
Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, says: “The launch of the XUV 3XO marks a significant milestone for Mahindra South Africa’s 20-year journey. With advanced technology, standout design, spirited performance, superior SUV comfort and truly world class safety that define the modern Mahindra brand.
At the same time, it remains true to the core principles of quality, value and exceptional customer support that we have upheld since we first entered the market in 2004. With our upcoming assembly facility and continued investment in the local market, we are laying the foundation for even greater success in the years to come.”
To celebrate the new Mahindra XUV 3XO and the group’s third decade in sunny South Africa, Mahindra is planning a major music, art and fashion Carnival which is planned for February 2025. More information to follow soon.
The bakkie war has intensified with the local launch of Mitsubishi’s next-generation Triton, an evolution in the iconic bakkie’s 46-year legacy.
Unlike in the past, when dealerships primarily waited for customers to come to them, we now take a more proactive approach, bringing our vehicles directly to places where people gather, allowing them to experience the product first-hand, including offering test drives,” says Gerrie van der Kaay, Dealer Principal at Supergroup Dealerships Jetour Midrand.
JAC Motors added ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to its X200 2.8L TDI 1.5-tonne single-cab, enhancing safety for both the crew and cargo. This latest upgrade complements the ABS-equipped X200 1.3-tonne double-cab targeted at organisations with labour-intensive crews.
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