Mahindra preps next-gen Pik-Up

Mahindra has revealed its plans to launch an all-new generation of the Pik-Up, with a focus on bringing a competitive product Down Under.

Codenamed Project Z121, the next-gen dual-cab one-tonner is built off the Global Pik Up concept first shown in 2023. It’s expected to debut in production form in India later this year, with a launch in export markets like Australia and New Zealand targeted for 2026.

This new Pik-Up promises to be a clean-slate redesign, underpinned by a heavily modified version of the ladder-frame chassis used in the new Thar Roxx SUV.

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Mahindra President of Automotive Technology and Product Development, Velusamy R, was reported as saying the new Pik-Up “Is the number one dream program for us right now. We are putting a big focus on the pick-up truck… it has the most advanced ladder-frame… it is based on the Thar Roxx and that platform is the latest-generation – generation four,” when speaking with Australian media in India earlier in the month. 

Expect multiple bodystyles, including single and double cab variants, all engineered to meet European and Australian crash safety standards. That means the new Pik-Up will include features like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, trailer-sway control, driver-attention alert and multiple airbags.

Power will likely come from a version of Mahindra’s 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel, mated to six-speed auto. Rear-drive and switchable 4×4 drivelines will be offered. 

Hybrid variants may follow further down the line, with Mahindra already exploring electrified options. One likely option includes a 1.5-litre petrol engine acting as a range extender for an electric drivetrain which is a setup being developed for future Mahindra SUVs.

Mahindra’s Head of International Operations, Sachin Arolkar, confirmed that the vehicle has been developed with extensive input from Australian stakeholders.

“Our product planning team was in Australia to get the right inputs… that’s the change,” he said. “Now, starting with Z121, we are developing vehicles purely for international markets.”

Arolkar noted that while some components may be sourced externally, the engineering and development remain in-house and tailored for real-world reliability.