Mahindra is redefining how beautiful a commercial vehicle - a rough and tough vehicle meant to carry goods - can get. Designed by Pininfarina, it has the same grace as sport and luxury cars sculpted by the Italian design firm owned by Mahindra. Hence, Furio doesn't have the rough face of a truck but instead sports the majestic look of an SUV.
Though Mahindra had considerable presence in the small truck and big truck segments, it had none in the intermediate range. The Furio fills this gap in the Mahindra range of trucks in a segment that sees maximum sales in the country. Positioned among the range of trucks that carry seven to 14 tonnes, Furio comes with a whole lot of new features.
Rs 600 crore investment
Furio was not a stop-gap plan for Mahindra; the company has pumped in Rs 600 with a far-sighted plan for the future. The project that started in 2014 went through several phases before reaching its conclusion now.
Tough
Furio drives into the showrooms after going through tough tests. The truck was built after collecting feedback regarding the requirements and complaints from about 500 truck drivers in India. Mahindra claims that it has rigorously tested Furio for over 17 lakh kilometres across various terrains in India over more than 1,000 trials.
Grace
Standout features on Furio include chrome-finished grille similar to those seen in Mahindra SUVs, beautiful headlights, muscular bumper, and a sporty scoop, among others. The body has been fully built in the factory.
Cabin
The Pininfarina touch can be seen not only outside but inside of the vehicle too. The smallest and simplest of things are of global standards. Drivers too have nothing to complain; it's easy to get in and out. The door pads and locks are like that of a car. Three people can be comfortably seated. The seats have good cushioning and support. The wind shield is large, and the dashboard is attractive. The glove box is large. The eight air vents help a lot in reducing the heat inside the cabin. Air conditioner is optional.
Strong
The engine is equipped with Mahindra's MDI FuelSmart technology and produces 140 bhp of peak power and 500 Nm of peak torque, while providing better mileage. The engine will be light weight and low friction to further enhance its efficiency. Mahindra is offering to take back the truck if the mileage is low.
Smart
One of the highlights of Furio is its FuelSmart technology. It features modes like 'turbo', 'heavy' and 'light'. If the truck is without any load, the driver can choose the 'light' mode, where the engine will provide less power thus providing better mileage. A fully-loaded vehicle should be put in the 'heavy' mode. When negotiating an incline, the 'turbo' mode should be chosen. The multi-mode drives that depend on load conditions help optimise fuel consumption.
Control
Though it is a big truck, Furio listens to driver inputs like a small car. The steering wheel can be adjusted. The low turning radius helps in dealing with turns. The chassis has been built using strong alloy materials that provide durability and strength.
Models
Furio is available in 12 and 14-tonne models. Besides, they are available in two variants - one with only the backdoor, and the other with cabin and chassis. The superb service network of Mahindra is another added advantage. Warranty is provided for three years or three lakh kilometres.