It’s always fun to uncover silent developments. And the latest to join that bandwagon is the launch of the updated Mahindra Marazzo. The carmaker has not only made it BS6-compliant (Bharat Stage 6) but also given it a revised portfolio. Just three trim levels – M2, M4+ and M6+ – are now on offer. Their prices with a seven-seat configuration are Rs 11.25 lakh, Rs 12.37 lakh and Rs 13.51 lakh, respectively. Mahindra’s offering the optional 8-seat layout for an extra Rs 8,000.

Although updated to meet the stricter emission norms, the propulsion system has the same basic specifications as before. The 1.5-litre, turbo-diesel engine pumps out 121bhp/300Nm, whereas a 6-speed manual transmission transfers all that oomph to the front wheels only. Mahindra hasn’t mentioned the mileage figure. That said, the updated model will probably be a bit less fuel-efficient.

Features? As standard, the Marazzo comes with dual airbags, rear parking sensors, front-row armrests, power windows, ISOFIX anchorages for child booster seats and Eco mode. The mid-range variants rope in extra gizmos such as Bluetooth-enabled music system, rear defogger, 16-inch alloy wheels, multifunction steering and remote keyless entry. Choose the M6+ trim, and the package expands with stuff like a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation, Mahindra’s Ecosense, front and rear fog lamps, a rear-view camera, automatic climate control and a theft alarm.

One of the main highlights of the Marazzo is its 5 years/1,00,000km standard warranty. Another advantage is that the Marazzo doesn’t really have a direct competitor. It isn’t a rival for the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, which costs between Rs 7.59 lakh and Rs 10.13 lakh and is a petrol-only model. And, beyond the other end, is the Toyota Innova Crysta. That starts at Rs 15.66 lakh and goes all the way up to Rs 23.63 lakh. So, the Marazzo is a practical alternative in a bracket where one would either find range-topping subcompact SUVs or entry-level compact SUVs.