Mahindra Alturas G4

Expert Review by Maxabout

Overview

The New Mahindra Alturas G4 is essentially a rebadged version of the second generation SsangYong Rexton, which debuted in the worldwide market in 2017. Replacing the nearly two-decade-old vehicle, rebranding SsangYong with Mahindra appears to be a wise option, as it bears a significantly more known business name and has a strong SUV brand image in our country.

When it comes to Mahindra's relationship with SsangYong, the Indian automaker began with the debut of the Rexton in the Indian market. SsangYong's first product, designed from scratch after being acquired by Mahindra, was the Tivoli, which also serves as the foundation for the Mahindra XUV300. The all-new Rexton was introduced to the Indian market as the Mahindra Alturas G4.

Mahindra Alturas G4 Design and Style

Imposing is the first thing that comes to mind when gazing at Mahindra's new range-topper. The huge family grille and Mahindra badge distinguish this SUV from the 2018 Ssangyong Rexton available in other countries. Prominent accent lines define the side profile, while this is more noticeable in the lighter colour selections and less so in this black one. The panel gaps are also consistent, tight, and even. The doors that close with a satisfying 'thunk' round off the picture. The only thing that stands out in terms of design is the unique badging on the rear tailgate. We believe a more subtle appearance would have looked more classy, the Alturas G4 has a strong road presence nonetheless.

HID projector headlamps, daytime running lamps, and LED fog lamps to add a little bling. The tail lamp cluster is also outfitted with LEDs. These specifications are the same as the global-spec SsangYong Rexton. The biggest gap is that the Indian model rides on 18-inch alloy wheels rather than the 20-inch wheels found in other regions. According to Mahindra, this has the best ride quality for Indian circumstances. Another advantage is that the Alturas comes with a full-sized spare tyre and a matching alloy wheel. It also rides much higher off the ground because of greater ground clearance and suspension tuning tailored specifically for India.

Mahindra Alturas G4 Engine and Gearbox

A 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine powers the Mahindra Alturas G4 that produces 178.4 HP @ 3800 rpm and 420 Nm @ 1600-2600 rpm. All of that power and torque is routed to the wheels via a Mercedes-Benz 7-speed automatic transmission. It also has a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system with a low range, so you can be confident that it will claw its way out of tight spots. On paper, this combination appears to be more than capable of towing any weight you intend to pile upon this enormous SUV.

There's no getting away from the diesel engine's drone. The engine may be heard almost constantly, but it does not approach uncomfortable levels at city speeds. Vibrations and roughness levels, on the other hand, are nicely under control. When you start driving, you can feel the torque wave kicking in smoothly and evenly as early as 1800 rpm. The engine has just enough power to tackle city commutes if you keep your foot lightly on the throttle. There is no sudden increase in power anywhere, which you will appreciate when driving in busy urban areas. The 7-speed automatic remains quite subtle in operation in this context.

Mahindra Alturas G4 Suspension, Brakes and Tyres

2023 Mahindra Alturas G4 performs well at low speeds, where the front Double Wishbone with Coil Spring and the rear 5 Link Suspension with Coil Spring absorb small to medium-sized bumps. However, as is inherent with ladder-frame SUVs, there is a shake every time this SUV passes over sharp-edged potholes. Even at high speeds, this Mahindra feels rough on the uneven tarmac, with noticeable up and down motion. It is manageable and, more importantly, safe and predictable when driven steadily. The 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels wrapped with 255/60-R18 tubeless tyres provide plenty of grips, while the vented disc brakes on all four corners provide adequate bite and stopping force. Straight-line stability is also very good, and it is rarely impacted by crosswinds or road defects.

Interior and Instrument Console of Mahindra Alturas G4

To begin, you must lift your foot high and climb inside the cabin of the Alturas. Once inside, you're greeted by a cabin that exudes quality and contains a plethora of amenities. The dual-tone upholstery in quilted tan Nappa leather is exquisitely elegant. Everything is well-organised, and each and every control is simply accessible. Speaking of which, the buttons and controls have a satisfying, positive click to them and appear to be well made and it makes a good first impression.

The centre console houses a huge 8-inch infotainment system. It feels mostly current, with standard technologies like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The physical buttons for scrolling through frequently used menus are a significant bonus in this case because you don't have to take your eyes off the road to use them.

Key Features of Mahindra Alturas G4

Some of the key features of new Mahindra Alturas G4 include 9 Airbags (Dual Full Length Curtain, Rear 1st Seat, Driver Knee Airbags), 3D Around View Camera, 20.32cm Touchscreen Infotainment with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 17.78cm Colour Futuristic Digital Cluster with TFT-LCD Trip with 3 Modes Computer, Smart Powered Tailgate, Illuminated Front Door Scuff Plate, 8 Way Adjustable Powered Driver Seat with Memory Profile, Easy Access Mode, HID Headlamps, 6 Speakers, Speed-Sensing Power Steering, Steering Mounted Audio Controls, Windshield De-icer Function, Dual Smart Key System with Start/Stop Button, Dual Zone Fully Automatic Temperature Control, Ventilated Seats, Rear Spoiler with LED Lamp, All Power Windows with Auto Up-Down & Anti Pinch, Sunroof with Anti-Pinch, Front Rain Sensing Wiper, Electronic Stability Program, ISOFIX Mounts for Child Seat, Traction Control System, Hill Start Assist, Central Locking, Brake Assist System, Active Rollover Protection, ABS with EBD, Front Crumple Zones, Hill Descent Control.

Top Speed and Mileage of Mahindra Alturas G4

The ARAI claimed mileage of the new Mahindra Alturas is 12.35 km/l but the real-world figures might be a bit different as the recorded city mileage of the Alturas G4 is 8.0 km/l and on the highway, it is 13.0 km/l. The top speed of Mahindra Alturas G4 is 182 km/h and takes Alturas G4 around 11 seconds to complete the 0 to 100 km/h run.

Mahindra Alturas G4 Colour Options

Mahindra offers the new Alturas G4 in 4 different colour options - New Pearl White, Dsat Silver, Regal Blue, and Napoli Black.

Mahindra Alturas G4 Competitors

MG Gloster, Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu MU-X, Jeep Meridian and Volkswagen Tiguan are some of the rivals of the new Mahindra Alturas G4.

Conclusion

As a product, 2023 Mahindra Alturas G4 is on a level with, if not better than, the competition. The engine is powerful and refined, the masculine appearance exudes confidence, the interior quality is excellent, and the cabin is spacious with comfy seating. The biggest challenge for Mahindra is the brand image that competitors like Toyota and Ford have in spades. To build a name for itself in the Rs 30 lakh SUV space, Mahindra must undercut competitors like Fortuner and Endeavour.