Mahindra XUV500 Returns with a Bold New Look and Advanced Tech Features…
Mahindra XUV500 has been one of the most talked-about SUVs in the Indian market for quite a few years. It’s a product that brought style, power, and performance together, at a price that didn’t break the bank. Designed and developed by Mahindra, an Indian brand with a strong presence in utility vehicles, the XUV500 became popular among families and off-road enthusiasts alike.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Mahindra XUV500 special, and why it’s still being talked about, even after its production was stopped to make way for its successor, the XUV700.
Overview Table: Mahindra XUV500
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.2L Diesel |
| Power Output | 155 bhp |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic |
| Mileage | 15–16 km/l approx. |
| Seating Capacity | 7-seater |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive / All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Variants Available | W5, W7, W9, W11 (Optional AWD) |
| Price Range (Last Known) | ₹14 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Design & Style
The XUV500 stood out with its aggressive and bold design. Its cheetah-inspired front grille, muscular lines, and large headlamps gave it a strong road presence. Mahindra didn’t shy away from adding chrome accents and sleek LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lamps), which added a premium touch.
The SUV looked sturdy from every angle, and the rear tailgate with stylish wraparound tail lamps gave it a modern touch. Alloy wheels and roof rails added to its sporty look. Inside, the cabin was spacious, with soft-touch materials used across the dashboard. Leather seats in higher variants gave it a luxury-like feel.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Mahindra XUV500 was powered by a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine. This engine delivered around 155 bhp and 360 Nm of torque, which made it a strong performer on both city roads and highways. It had a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox option.
The power delivery was smooth, and the automatic transmission especially made driving in traffic much easier. The engine was well-refined for its time, and it could cruise comfortably at high speeds. Some variants also came with all-wheel drive (AWD), which gave it extra grip and control on rough terrain.
Ride & Handling
The XUV500 offered a good balance between comfort and handling. Its suspension system was tuned to absorb most of the bumps and potholes, making it suitable for Indian roads. On highways, the SUV remained stable, and body roll was well under control for a vehicle of its size.
The steering was light at low speeds, which helped during city driving, and it became firmer at higher speeds. Though it’s not a cornering expert, the XUV500 managed to give a confident drive feel, whether on city roads or hilly areas.
Features & Tech
Mahindra packed the XUV500 with several features, especially in the top variants. It came with a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, navigation, and a premium sound system by Arkamys.
Some key features included:
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Cruise control
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Keyless entry with push-button start
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Automatic climate control
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Reverse parking camera with sensors
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Electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs
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Electric sunroof (in higher variants)
Safety features included dual airbags (up to 6 in higher trims), ABS with EBD, electronic stability program (ESP), hill hold, and hill descent control.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
The XUV500, being a large SUV with a diesel engine, offered decent fuel efficiency for its size. In real-world conditions, the manual version gave around 15–16 km/l, while the automatic version was slightly less, around 13–14 km/l.
Though not a mileage champion, the efficiency was acceptable given the size, weight, and power of the vehicle.
Price & Variants
The Mahindra XUV500 was available in multiple trims such as W5, W7, W9, and W11. Each higher trim added more features and premium touches. The top-end W11 optional variant even offered an AWD version.
Here’s a quick look at the last known ex-showroom price range:
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W5: ₹14 lakh (approx.)
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W7: ₹15.5 lakh (approx.)
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W9: ₹17 lakh (approx.)
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W11: ₹18.5–20 lakh (approx.)
Please note that the XUV500 is no longer in production, so these are past prices.
FAQs
Q1: Is the Mahindra XUV500 still available in the market?
No, Mahindra has stopped production of the XUV500 and replaced it with the XUV700.
Q2: Is the XUV500 a good family car?
Yes, it’s spacious, has a 7-seater layout, and offers good comfort and features for family usage.
Q3: Is the XUV500 good for off-roading?
Only the AWD variant is suitable for mild off-roading. It’s not a hardcore off-roader but can handle rough terrains decently.
Q4: Does the XUV500 have a petrol version?
No, the XUV500 was only offered with a diesel engine.
Final Verdict
The Mahindra XUV500 was a solid and successful SUV that made a strong mark in the Indian automobile market. With its stylish looks, powerful engine, and long feature list, it gave buyers a value-for-money option in the mid-size SUV space. While it may no longer be available, it still holds a good image in the used car market. If you’re looking for a strong performer with space and presence, the XUV500 is worth considering.
For those who prefer newer options, Mahindra’s XUV700 carries forward the legacy with more modern updates.
