New Mahindra Pik-Up Gas Mileage No Threat To Tacoma

Last week, Mahindra-Planet reported disappointing fuel economy estimates for the new Mahindra TR40, a potential competitor to the Tacoma. While the fuel economy numbers really weren’t that bad – 19 mpg city, 21 mpg highway for a 4 door truck – they fell far short of the 30 mpg numbers often promised in Mahindra promotional literature.

Compare the Mahindra TR40’s probable specs to a new 2011 Tacoma DoubleCab 4×4 V6:

At first glance, there’s a lot to like about the Mahindra’s specs. The 2,765 lbs payload rating is incredible, as are the low MSRP and the warranty. However, one has to wonder if Mahindra’s specs are to be trusted…the Mahindra website promises 30mpg fuel economy, but we all know how that turned out.

Is There A Mahindra Cost Advantage?

One of the most compelling aspects of the new Mahindra pickup is the lower cost yet similar performance to trucks like the Tacoma. However, consider the following:

1. Diesel fuel cost vs. gasoline. As of today, the EPA’s cost estimate for diesel is 10% higher ($3.43 per gallon of diesel vs. $3.11 per gallon of gas). Historically, we’ve seen diesel fuel costs rise faster than gasoline when demand grows…will the Mahindra’s slightly better fuel economy make up for the higher cost of diesel?
2. Diesel maintenance costs. Diesels typically need more oil, more expensive air and oil filters, not to mention newer diesels that may need exhaust fluid.
3. Lower Mahindra resale value. It’s a near certainty that a used Mahindra will be worth less than a used Tacoma as a percentage of MSRP – at least initially. If Mahindra can demonstrate excellent reliability and quality, resale value will grow…but that will take years.
4. Longer diesel engine life. Diesels are generally longer-lasting than gas engines, all things being equal. But who knows if a Mahindra made engine will be as high quality as a Toyota engine?
5. Is a full-size a better comparison? The Mahindra’s incredible payload rating is more comparable to a full-size truck in terms of capability – will it compete with work versions of the F150 and Toyota Tundra rather than compact trucks like the Tacoma?

There are a lot of unknowns when comparing the Mahindra to the Tacoma, not the least of which is whether or not the Mahindra will even be sold here. For now, it’s interesting to think about, but until Mahindra announces a firm plan to sell their truck in the USA, these types of comparisons are only academic.