The refreshed 2016 Mahindra Genio ute has arrived in Australia with unchanged pricing from it predecessor, starting at $19,990 drive-away, and is available in both 4×4 and 4×4 variants.

MAHINDRA HAS kicked off the New Year by launching a refreshed Genio onto the Australian market. The 2016 Mahindra Genio sticks with its predecessors drive-away pricing for the 4×2 single-cab variant at $19,990, with the single-cab 4×4 a $3500 premium. The 4×4 dual-cab jumps to $24,990 drive-away with the 4×4 dual-cab a $3500 premium.

In terms of load carrying, the Genio offers 1260kg for the single cab in 4×2 form and 1100kg for the dual cab; subtract 100kg from each model if the 4×4 drivetrain is selected. All variants are limited to a maximum braked towing capacity of 1800kg. 

The cab/chassis versions come with an alloy tray from Queensland manufacturer Triple MMM, with tray dimensions of 2700 x 1777mm for the single cab and 1950mm length x 1777mm in width for the double cab. The removable drop-sides and tailgate are 250mm in height. The Genio weighs in with a kerb weight of 1720kg (4×2 single cab), adds a further 100kg for 4×4 and then moves up to 1880 kg for the dual cab 4×2, (plus a further 100kg for 4×4). GVM is 2980kg.

The Genio is unlikely to challenge the established and mainstream dual-cab 4×4 utes, but for those who need something that won’t break the budget with a modicum of rough-road ability then the thing might suit. That said, it falls a long way short of the pack with only 195mm of ground clearance. It’s key dimensions are, approach: 24-degrees; rampover: 20.5-degrees; and departure: 21-degrees. The 4×4 system is part-time with low-range transfer case.

Under the snub-nosed bonnet is Mahindra’s latest-generation 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel mHAWK engine which makes 88kW at 4000rpm and 280Nm of torque from 1800-2800rpm, a substantial power hike on its predecessor. This is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox only. The fuel tank is 75 litres.

Genio runs a double wishbone, front independent design with coil springs, while at the rear it runs semi-elliptical multi-leaf springs. Brakes are disc front and drum rear. As far as the rest of the safety kit is concerned, the Genio gets driver and passenger front airbags, side impact intrusion bars (wow), collapsible steering column and ABS braking. We’ve asked Mahindra what other safety features the Genio has, because these are about as basic as it gets in this day and age.

Other features include, air conditioning, power steering, central locking, cruise control, power windows and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel are standard and the optional Bluetooth phone accessory operates through a push button control on the dashboard.

The “on-board Digital Drive Assist System (DDAS), trip meter and data indicator (Dual Cab Only), covers a wide range of information displayed in a central binnacle on the dashboard. Information highlighted includes interior and exterior ambient temperature, date and time, speed, fuel consumption and gear ratio selected,” Mahindra said.

Interior stowage includes a slide-out tray under the driver’s seat, and storage space under the rear seat squab on dual cab variants.

“The 2016 Genio really holds its own against competitors by setting out to provide functionality and practicality in a cost affordable overall package. With the best in class interior space and high-level of standard equipment the Genio looks set to become a firm favourite with Aussie Tradies.” said Russell Thiele, National Sales Manager – Auto at Mahindra Automotive Australia Pty Ltd.