2026 Mahindra Vision S SUV: The Indian SUV giant is back at it. Following the massive success of the Scorpio-N and the Thar Roxx, Mahindra is shifting gears to dominate the compact lifestyle segment.
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Fresh off the concept unveil in August 2025, the Mahindra Vision S widely dubbed the “Baby Scorpio” has been spotted testing in its production-ready avatar. Based on the brand-new NU IQ platform, this SUV promises to bring the rugged DNA of its bigger siblings into a more city-friendly package.
Here is an exclusive look at what the spy shots reveal and why this could be Mahindra’s next blockbuster.
The “Baby Scorpio” Identity: What is the Vision S?
The 2026 Mahindra Vision S SUV is one of four concepts (alongside the Vision T, X, and SXT) that Mahindra unveiled earlier this year. However, it is the Mahindra Vision S that has generated the most buzz.
Why? Because it fills a massive gap in the market. Enthusiasts have long clamored for a vehicle that offers the tough-as-nails attitude of a Scorpio but with the agility and footprint of a sub-4 meter compact SUV.
Expert Insight: The Vision S isn’t just a shrunken Scorpio. By utilizing the NU IQ modular platform, Mahindra is moving away from heavy ladder-frame chassis for this specific model, opting for a monocoque setup that prioritizes ride quality and handling without sacrificing the “bad road” capability Mahindra is famous for.
Must Read :- Mahindra Vision X Concept: A First Look at the Future XUV 3XO – Design, Features & Expected Launch
Design Breakdown: A Mini Defender in the Making?
The latest spy shots from December 2025 confirm that Mahindra is staying true to the concept’s boxy, aggressive silhouette. The camouflage can’t hide the distinct design language that screams “lifestyle off-roader.”
1. The Front Profile
The test mule features a flat, upright bonnet and a high nose, giving it a commanding road presence. The most striking elements are the round headlamps flanked by a vertically slatted grille.
- The “Thar” Influence: The lighting setup, likely integrating LED DRLs into the round clusters, mirrors the styling cues seen on the Thar Roxx.
- Tech-Ready: A radar module is clearly visible on the lower air dam, all but confirming that the Vision S will launch with Level 2 ADAS capabilities.
2. Side and Rear Profile
This is where the “Baby Scorpio” nickname really sticks.
- Stance: High ground clearance is a standout feature, aided by large wheels and flared, polygonal wheel arches.
- Rugged Details: Flush door handles (a premium touch borrowed from the XUV700) and a flat roofline maximize interior headroom.
- The Rear: It sports a flat tailgate with a spare wheel mounted on the back—a non-negotiable feature for any serious lifestyle SUV. The tail lamps are vertically stacked rectangular units, keeping the design clean and functional.
Performance: The NU IQ Advantage
Unlike previous rumors, the Vision S is not just an aesthetic package. It is built on the NU IQ Multi-Energy Platform. This architecture is a game-changer for Mahindra because it is “fuel agnostic,” meaning it can support Petrol, Diesel, and Electric powertrains.
Expected Powertrain Specifications
| Feature | Specification (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Platform | NU IQ (Modular Monocoque) |
| Engine Options | 1.2L mStallion Turbo Petrol / 1.5L Diesel |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD options likely for top trims |
| Suspension | 5-Link Rear Independent Suspension |
| Ground Clearance | Est. 200mm+ |
Why the Suspension Matters:
The spy reports mention a 5-link rear independent suspension. This is rare in the compact segment. It suggests that the 2026 Mahindra Vision S will offer a sophisticated ride quality that absorbs potholes and undulations far better than the stiff suspension usually found in off-road focused vehicles.
Must Read :- Mahindra Vision S SUV 2025 – Launch Date, Price, Design, Features and All Details!
Interior Expectations: Luxury & Practical
While the exterior screams rugged, the interior is expected to be thoroughly modern. Mahindra knows that family buyers demand tech.
- Dual Digital Screens: Expect a setup similar to the XUV 3XO, with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and digital instrument cluster.
- Panoramic Sunroof: A feature that has become a standard requirement for Indian buyers.
- Comfort Focus: With the flat floor advantage of the NU IQ platform, the Vision S should offer superior legroom compared to the cramped rear seats of the 3-door Thar.
Verdict: Why This Matters Right Now
The 2026 Mahindra Vision S is positioning itself as the perfect middle ground. It targets the buyer who wants the image of a Thar but the comfort of a Creta.
With the Tata Sierra also on the horizon for 2026, the “Lifestyle Compact SUV” segment is about to explode. If Mahindra can price the Vision S aggressively—likely starting around the ₹10-12 Lakh mark—they won’t just compete; they will create an entirely new category of urban off-roaders.
What’s Next? The Mahindra Vision S is currently in advanced road testing. We expect a global production debut in mid-2026. Stay tuned to this space for more spy shots and interior leaks as they surface.
