Mahindra has announced that it will hike prices of its new Marazzo MPV by about Rs 30,000-40,000 (depending on the variant) from January 1, 2019. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga competitor had launched back in September, with prices starting at Rs 9.99 lakh and going up to Rs 13.90 lakh (ex-showroom, India).

The much-awaited new Marazzo had been introduced with seven- and eight-seat options and in four trims – M2 (Rs 9.99 lakh), M4 (Rs 10.95 lakh), M6 (Rs 12.40 lakh) and M8 (Rs 13.90 lakh). All trims are equipped with a significant amount of safety features in the form of dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, and Isofix child seat mounts. Even the base M2 trim gets features such as roof-mounted rear AC vents, power windows, central locking and a USB charging port for the rear passengers. The top-spec M8 is very well kitted with features like a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay (which was introduced later) and navigation, steering mounted controls for audio and other functions, automatic climate control, dual USB sockets for front and rear passengers, cruise control, power folding and adjustable wing mirrors, LED headlamps and 17-inch machined alloy wheels.

The Marazzo also debuted Mahindra’s new 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which is also expected to be used on the upcoming S201 compact SUV. In the MPV, this motor makes 123hp and 300Nm of peak torque and is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The brand has plans to launch a petrol engine model and a model equipped with a 6-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) around 2020. The diesel engine will also be updated to meet BS-VI emission norms by then.

Based on its size, features and pricing, Mahindra was looking to find a niche between the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and the Toyota Innova Crysta. With the launch of Maruti Suzuki’s next-gen Ertiga imminent, the new price point may affect sales of Mahindra’s MPV. Only time will tell.