Mahindra’s Bold Leap With Its New India Design Studio
Mahindra has always been a name that resonates with rugged reliability and innovation, but now the brand is stepping up its game in a way that’s set to leave an indelible mark on global automotive design.
The unveiling of the all-new Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai is a pivotal moment, not only for the company but for fans and future drivers here in South Africa. This is not just an upgrade; it’s an evolution that speaks volumes about Mahindra’s commitment to shaping vehicles that are as forward-thinking as they are functional.
A Creative Space Like No Other
First established in 2015, the Mahindra India Design Studio quickly became the heartbeat of the brand’s design philosophy. Fast-forward to 2025, and this creative powerhouse has doubled in size, transforming into a state-of-the-art facility equipped to handle Mahindra’s ambitious global plans.
What makes this new space so remarkable? For starters, it combines advanced digital tools with good old-fashioned craftsmanship, ensuring that every curve, line, and feature is meticulously refined. From concept sketches to full-scale production models, everything happens under one roof.
Designed For The Future
MIDS isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating vehicles that connect with drivers on a human level. The expanded studio now includes dedicated functions for human-machine interface (HMI) design, design quality, and realisation. In simple terms, Mahindra is focusing on how you experience the vehicle, from the moment you touch the steering wheel to the way technology integrates seamlessly into your journey.
And this isn’t happening in isolation. MIDS works closely with Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in the UK. This collaboration means the vehicles rolling out in the near future will blend international appeal with an unmistakable Mahindra identity that is rugged, bold, and proudly global with an Indian soul.
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Why It Matters To South African Drivers
You might be wondering what a design studio in Mumbai has to do with us here in sunny Mzansi. A lot, actually! South Africa has become an important market for Mahindra, and the vehicles designed at MIDS will set the tone for what we’ll see on our roads in the coming years.
Think about the popularity of models like the XUV700 and XUV 3XO. These SUVs already combine style and performance at an unbeatable value. Now, with MIDS leading the creative charge, future models are expected to deliver next-level innovation thanks to smart tech features, cutting-edge safety, and designs that feel as at home in Sandton traffic as they do exploring the Karoo.
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Attracting The Best Minds
Pratap Bose, Mahindra’s Chief Design and Creative Officer, summed it up perfectly when he called the studio a “future-ready” facility. This isn’t just about technology; it’s also about talent. The studio is positioned as a magnet for the best design professionals, creating a melting pot of creativity and engineering brilliance.
This investment signals Mahindra’s commitment to long-term growth and global leadership. And for South African customers, that translates to more exciting model launches, better design quality, and vehicles that truly understand what drivers want.
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A Glimpse Into Tomorrow
While the new MIDS will influence Mahindra’s design DNA for years to come, the ripple effect is already being felt. Expect upcoming models that strike the perfect balance between rugged capability and modern sophistication. Whether you’re a loyal Mahindra owner or someone considering the switch, the future looks seriously bright.
At Group1 Mahindra, we’re buzzing about what this means for our customers. More choice. More innovation. And vehicles that reflect the lifestyle and expectations of South Africans who want reliability without compromising on design flair.
