We already know that people nowadays prefer crossovers and SUVs to sedans. So, what do automakers do? Create SUVs in different shapes and sizes. Indian automaker Mahindra is known for building Jeep-like vehicles, and it recently unveiled a Willys Jeep's doppelgänger called the Roxor, which looks like a sure-shot. The best part - It's for sale in the U.S., and it's built in Detroit, Michigan! Read on to know more.

It carries the genes of its forefathers...

The Roxor looks exactly like the CJ-7 - the rounded fenders, the 90-degree cut at the rear, filleted corners, shape of the hood, outlined grille, etc. This is due to Mahindra's history; their first offering back in 1940's was essentially a Willys CJ-2A shipped to India as a CKD and sold under the 'Thar' moniker.

The specifications are spot-on for an off-roader: a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission with a low-speed transfer case. However, it produces a mere 62 horses to carry the 3,035 pounds of curb weight. Towing capacity is about 3,490 pounds, and rear payload capacity is only 349 pounds. Top speed is limited to 45 MPH. According to Anand Mahindra, the Chairman, the Roxor will come with 900 color options! Nope, that's not a typo. Starting prices for the two trim levels, according to Mahindra, will range from $15,549 to $18,999.

 

Our Take

Off-roaders are generally perceived to be the big, macho, ladder-on-frame vehicles that can conquer the highest peaks and tread the toughest paths; but here we have a tiny vehicle with off-roading powers available for less than $20,000. So, would it be right to say that Mahindra has created a niche segment here? This is not the car one can take out for long road trips, or for someone who is a mile-muncher. Roxor is that mini-truck one would buy for the pleasure, and not for utility. Let us know what you feel about the Roxor in the comments section below.

References

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