After launching the first gen XUV500 back in 2011, Mahindra is now getting ready to launch the 2nd gen XUV500.
All set to be showcased as an electric SUV concept at the upcoming Auto Expo next week, the diesel powered variant of this new gen SUV was recently spied on test by automotive enthusiast Saranpreet Singh and Athavan Rajendran.
2020 XUV500 will continue to sport the Mahindra signature front grille but on either sides, it will get new projector headlamps with integrated LED DRLs. Borrowing some features from the XUV300 and the Alturas G4, the 2020 Mahindra XUV500 sports Cheetah-inspired wheel arches, flush door handles and new LED tail lamps and bumper along with a revised boot lid. The model on test also received larger windows, new ORVMs, a flat bonnet and a sloping roofline with large rear overhangs.
The test mule above is a pre-production model, as there are many elements which are missing. Like the dashboard photo shows space made for a large horizontal touchscreen infotainment system. Instrument cluster features two circular pods, and a large colour LCD screen in the center. The left pod is the tachometer while the right pod is speedometer.
The manual controls for AC could be replaced by touch sensitive buttons on a LCD display in production variant. Steering wheel is production ready. To give it a sporty appeal, the steering wheel has a flat bottom. In addition to this, it houses control to audio, bluetooth, cruise control, etc. Seats are done up in black / grey fabric. They look big and comfortable. AC vents are also on offer at the rear.
Other features on offer will include electric sunroof, 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, Hill Assist, etc. The model spied on test, was an automatic transmission variant, as can be noticed by the gear lever. What is interesting is that Mahindra is probably testing the towing capacity of the 2020 XUV500 automatic diesel engine, as the test mule was spotted with a two bar at the rear.
Engine specs are under wraps. But sources tell that the new gen XUV500 will be powered by a 2 liter diesel engine – the most powerful car engine built by Mahindra till date in the country. This new BS6 diesel engine of Mahindra will will be offered with both automatic as well as manual gearbox option. Power output is expected to be in the region of 180 hp.
To be launched by Diwali 2020, more details are expected to be revealed at the Auto Expo next week. Mahindra will also be showcasing electric XUV300, electric KUV100 and Atom EV at the show.
