Ever since Nissan unveiled its compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) named Terrano, a lot of buzz was generated among car buyers in India. Industry experts are betting that with the launch of a new model, the rivalry shared between Nissan and its competitors will further increase. Also to mention, the Indian car market is presently flooded with a lot of utility vehicles out of which Mahindra Xylo has been doing a good business. So, the general view is that once Nissan introduces Terrano in India, it might tap in the market share of Xylo as the expected price of former shall be similar to that of latter. So to asses the extent of rivalry between Nissan Terrano and Mahindra Xylo, a comparison is made.
Talking about engine specifications first, Nissan's car will be powered by differently tuned petrol and diesel engines. In case of petrol version of Terrano, a 1.6-litre MPFI engine will be equipped, which will churn out 102 bhp of peak power while generating a maximum torque of 145 Nm. On the other hand, the powerful 1.5-litre K9K DCi engine will be provided on the diesel version of Terrano in two differently tuned outputs of 83 bhp and 102 bhp. Coming to Mahindra Xylo, the car is available in five variants namely D2, D4, H4, H8 and H9 with each of them having different specifications. The first two trim levels, D2 and D4, are powered by the same mDi CRDe engine that has a displacement of 2489 cc. The peak power and torque levels of the both these variants stand at 95 bhp and 220 Nm.
In case of H4, H8 and H9 trims, all are equipped with a 2.2-litre mHAWK engine, which has an ability to belt out a maximum power of 120 bhp while generating a peak torque of 280 Nm. It must be noted that Mahindra Xylo is only available in a diesel engine option. As far as the features are concerned, the top specification variant of Terrano will come equipped with advancements like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and airbags, among others. However, the absence of steering mounted audio controls and touchscreen audio system might pinch buyers.
In case of top-end trim Mahindra Xylo, it is fitted with security features like engine immobiliser, dual airbags, ABS with EBD and reverse parking sensors. For optimum passengers' comfort and convenience, Xylo is provided with surround dual air-conditioner and flat bed seats. Talking about price, Mahindra Xylo has been offered in a range of Rs. 7.49 lakh for the base variant while for the top-spec one, it goes till Rs. 10.86 lakh (ex-showroom). On the other hand, the Japanese auto maker has not shared any details regarding Terrano on the grounds of price, but industry experts are betting that the base variant could be offered for Rs. 9 lakh.
The petrol and diesel version of Nissan Terrano will come equipped with 5-speed manual transmission that will further transfer the power to rear wheels of the vehicle. Availability of an automatic gearbox in Terrano is highly doubted during the initial stages and a 4WD version of Terrano might be launched coupled with it. To conclude on the competition between Nissan Terrano and Mahindra Xylo, it must be said that both the cars cater to different set of audiences but the compact SUV of Nissan poses a serious challenge for its counterpart. However, taking the brand value into account, Mahindra leads Nissan as the Indian home grown company enjoys a good reputation in rural areas.
