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Mahindra launches Genio pick-ups

Shirajiv Sirimane in Mumbai

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., one of India’s leading automotive brands, announced the global roll-out of the Mahindra Genio range of pick-ups. Developed to cater to the evolved needs of the small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) and businessmen alike, the Genio is a versatile, next generation pick up.

“This is a proud moment for all of us at Mahindra as it marks our very first global launch in India. Manufactured at our world class plant in Chakan, the Genio incorporates a high level of technological excellence, both in terms of power and styling. This next generation pick up launched to much critical acclaim in India and is now all set to be marketed worldwide,” said Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd Automotive and Farm Equipment Sectors President Pawan Goenka.

“Powered by the state-of-the-art mHawk engine, the Mahindra Genio is ideal for both efficient cargo movement as well as luxurious cabin comfort for self travel. It offers a unique blend of international styling, luxurious interiors, business class comfort, safety and class leading convenience features. This world class product is in sync with our philosophy of rise as it has been designed keeping the needs of the customer in mind. To begin with, the Genio will roll out in South Africa, Sri Lanka and shortly thereafter in Latin America and Australia where Mahindra already has a considerable presence in the pick up segment,” said Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd International Operations (Automotive & Farm Equipment Sectors) Chief Executive Pravin Shah.

Incredible power

The Genio is powered by the state-of-the-art m-Hawk engine which displaces 2.2 litres and pumps out 120 BHP @ 4000 RPM. This is complemented by a torque of 290 Nm @ 1600-2800 RPM to ensure an effortless drive.

The powerful engine can be precisely controlled by cruise control buttons on the steering wheel, while on-board computers maintain the set speed. This menacing beast is, however, gentle on the environment. It complies with stringent Euro 3 & 4 norms and will soon meet the even tougher Euro 5 norms as well.

Luxurious style

The Genio’s sleek contours coupled with structured edges and the signature Mahindra front grille give this stylish pickup a touch of elegance while retaining the aggressive stance of a utility vehicle. Chunky alloy wheels and strong curves on the bonnet and fenders reinforce this look. The integrated roll-over bar adds to the Genio’s sporty look, while the superbly finished tub gives it a dynamic, modern look. An elegant dashboard in rich granite finish with an array of convenient charging points, compliments the vehicle’s stylish interiors

Pick up or lounge

The Genio’s car-like feel extends to its interiors which have been designed keeping in mind passenger comfort. Luxurious seats which have been ergonomically designed with lumbar support ensure a smooth ride, while tilt steering and height adjustable seats enables you to zero in on the perfect driving position.

In a segment first, the Genio incorporates foldable flight trays to help one enjoy one’s meal in comfort. The Genio DC is also the widest pickup in its category and coupled with the maximum height, ensures it is the most spacious cabin in its category.

A tech freak’s delight

The Genio also incorporates a high level of technology including the DDAS (Digital Drive Assist System) which displays vital stats like current mileage and fuel level. This helps to optimise the driving and keeps the driver tension free. At the press of a button, you can read the speed and the current gear, again helping you optimise the mileage from your Genio. The DDAS also offers information like date, time, inside and outside temperature and relative humidity.

The 2 DIN audio system plays not only MP3s from CDs, but even SD cards and USB sticks. The Genio comes with steering mounted controls for the audio system, ensuring that the driver’s hands are firmly on the steering wheel while shuffling tracks or adjusting the volume.

Work in style

The Genio comes with a stylish cargo box which extends the stylishness of the pickup all the way. It?s a case of style-meets-functionality as the SC pickup has a category leading payload of 1.25 tons. With a one touch release button for the cargo tub and low loading height, the pickup makes loading a breeze.

The double cab has one of the largest tubs in its category, which aptly complements the spacious cabin, making the Genio a luxurious pickup, inside and out.

The Genio also has a 4WD technology option which significantly improves performance in extreme conditions and ensures better control in gruelling situations.

Safety

The Genio comes with ABS - Anti Lock Braking system which provides maximum grip on the most slippery surfaces.It also offers an Airbag option for both the driver and co-driver to protect them from serious injury in the event of a collision. The Genio is designed with crumple zones to minimize impact from the sides and also boasts of an immobiliser to prevent vehicle theft.

The Mahindra Group

The Mahindra Group focuses on enabling people to rise. Mahindra operates in the key industries that drive economic growth, enjoying a leadership position in tractors, utility vehicles, information technology and vacation ownership. Mahindra has a presence in the automotive industry, agribusiness, aerospace, components, consulting services, defence, energy, financial services, industrial equipment, logistics, real estate, retail, steel and two wheelers.

A US $12.5 billion multinational group based in Mumbai, India, Mahindra employs 1,37,000 people in over 100 countries. In 2011, Mahindra featured on the Forbes Global 2000 list, a listing of the biggest and most powerful listed companies in the world. Dun & Bradstreet also ranked Mahindra at No. 1 in the automobile sector in its list of India’s Top 500 Companies. In 2010, Mahindra featured in the Credit Suisse Great Brands of Tomorrow. Its flagship company Mahindra & Mahindra Limited is the only Indian automobile manufacturer to feature in the top 10 list of the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index in India - 2010, created by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). In 2011, Mahindra acquired a majority stake in Korea’s SsangYong Motor Company.