The Mahindra XUV500, one of India’s most recognized premium SUVs, has made a powerful comeback with major upgrades in design, performance, technology, and safety. Reimagined to meet the evolving needs of modern drivers, the latest XUV500 blends luxury and power to deliver a more refined driving experience. This article provides a comprehensive look at the refreshed Mahindra XUV500, highlighting its features, improvements, and market positioning.
Exterior Design: A More Sophisticated Presence
The new Mahindra XUV500 introduces a refreshed and contemporary exterior that enhances its premium appeal.
Refined Front Fascia
The SUV now sports a redesigned grille with chrome accents, flanked by new projector headlamps and signature LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The updated fog lamps also feature chrome bezels, giving the front end a polished and aggressive look.
Stylish Alloy Wheels and Tail Lamps
The addition of 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels (235/60 R18) boosts the vehicle’s road presence. At the rear, the split tail-lamp design and revised tailgate structure further modernize the XUV500’s aesthetics, aligning it with global SUV design trends.
Luxurious Interiors: Comfort Meets Craftsmanship
The cabin of the new XUV500 has undergone a significant transformation to deliver a more premium in-car experience.
Premium Seating and Trim
Quilted tan leather seats provide enhanced comfort and a sophisticated appearance. The black-and-tan interior theme adds contrast, while soft-touch leather inserts on the dashboard and doors elevate the tactile experience.
Ambient Features
Blue ambient lighting, illuminated scuff plates, and sporty aluminum pedals contribute to a luxurious ambiance inside the cabin. The piano black finish on the center console adds a touch of modernity.
Performance and Engine Capabilities
The latest iteration of the Mahindra XUV500 comes with a more powerful engine and improved drivetrain technologies.
Enhanced Diesel Engine
Under the hood, the XUV500 is powered by a 2.2-liter mHawk155 diesel engine, which now delivers 155 bhp and 360 Nm of torque. The engine incorporates a 6th generation electronically controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (eVGT), enhancing low-end torque and performance in city traffic.
Smooth Transmission Options
The SUV offers both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options. These upgrades ensure a smoother and more responsive driving experience, particularly useful in varying driving conditions, from urban commutes to highway cruising.
Source: Mahindra Auto Press Release, 2024
Advanced Technology and Infotainment
Incorporating smart features, the new XUV500 ensures that technology is at the forefront of the user experience.
Infotainment System
A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and GPS navigation offers seamless connectivity. The Arkamys audio system is tuned for immersive sound quality, enhancing the entertainment experience.
Smartwatch Connectivity
One of the standout features is the industry-first smartwatch connectivity, allowing users to control climate and media settings remotely. This feature exemplifies Mahindra’s effort to integrate modern, user-centric technology into its vehicles.
Safety First: Features That Protect
Safety has always been a priority for Mahindra, and the latest XUV500 reflects this commitment with comprehensive safety features.
Passive and Active Safety
The vehicle is equipped with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Rollover Mitigation. Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control features are designed to improve vehicle control on steep inclines and declines.
Emergency Response Features
The Emergency Call feature, which automatically alerts emergency services in the event of a collision, is a significant addition. This function enhances passenger safety by reducing emergency response times.
Model Variants and Color Options
To cater to a broad customer base, Mahindra offers the XUV500 in multiple trims and color options.
Available Trims
The diesel variant is available in W5, W7, W9, W11, and W11 Optional trims. A petrol automatic version (G AT) is also offered for customers preferring gasoline powertrains.
Color Palette
Customers can choose from seven colors, including Pearl White, Crimson Red, Mystic Copper, and Volcano Black. These options allow buyers to personalize the vehicle to their aesthetic preferences.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
The upgraded engine not only offers more power but also maintains competitive fuel efficiency figures.
According to ARAI-certified data, the diesel variant delivers a mileage of approximately 15.1 km/l in manual and 13.9 km/l in automatic transmissions. These numbers make the XUV500 suitable for long-distance travel while keeping operating costs manageable.
Source: ARAI Fuel Efficiency Ratings, 2024
Pricing and Market Competitiveness
Mahindra has strategically priced the XUV500 to offer strong value in the premium SUV segment.
Competitive Pricing
The base model starts at approximately ₹14.00 lakh (ex-showroom), with the top-end variant priced around ₹18.90 lakh. This pricing positions the XUV500 against rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, and MG Hector.
After-Sales Support
Mahindra provides robust after-sales service, including extended warranty options, roadside assistance, and service packages. This support enhances overall ownership satisfaction and long-term vehicle reliability.
Environmental Compliance and Emissions
The new XUV500 is BS6-compliant, aligning with India’s latest emission standards. The inclusion of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and oxidation catalyst ensures cleaner emissions, reducing the environmental impact.
Conclusion
The refreshed Mahindra XUV500 offers a compelling mix of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. With improved power, a redesigned cabin, and safety-first features, it represents a significant step forward in the mid-size SUV segment. Backed by Mahindra’s engineering expertise and value-driven pricing, the new XUV500 is positioned as a strong contender for customers seeking a premium yet practical SUV solution.