The next gen Mahindra XUV500 has been spied testing once again in India. Set to come in to replace the current model sometime later next year, 2020 Mahindra XUV500 will get completely new exteriors and interiors.
The 2020 Mahindra XUV500 will borrow heavily from the SsangYong Korando, which was launched earlier this year. It has been designed at the Mahindra North American Technical Center in Michigan, USA with inputs from Pininfarina design house. Global debut is expected to take place at the 2020 Auto Expo in Feb next year.
In terms of its exterior updates, the 2020 XUV500 will sport larger dimensions which will relate to better interior space which will be particularly noteworthy in the second and third row seats. The new XUV500 will also be positioned on a new monocoque platform with will see it commanding a lighter weight and being more versatile as compared to its earlier counterpart.
The new gen XUV500 test mule spied on test was riding on steel wheels, however, Mahindra would be offering all new alloy wheels with the new XUV500 upon launch. Even the headlight and tail lights are dummy. These are expected to be revealed over the next few weeks, when the design is finalized.
Interiors will also be spruced up with quality fittings some of which could be borrowed from the SsangYong Korando. The 2020 XUV500 gets a new dashboard layout, which can be seen in the latest spy shots. The center dash is where the large touchscreen infotainment system will be installed. Expect Mahindra to install their largest ever touchscreen in this car. The air vents are placed below this touchscreen.
Steering wheel design is also revealed. The new flat-bottomed steering wheel is 3 spoked and gets mounted controls for audio, cruise controls, etc. Features on offer are expected to include a dual zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, digital instrument console, ventilated seats with driver seat getting memory function. It will also get better connectivity and safety features with automatic headlamps and rail sensing wipers. Keyless entry and push button start, multiple airbags, ABS, EBD, will also be among its safety features.
Engine specifications on the 2020 Mahindra XUV500 will include petrol and diesel engine options which will now comply with BS VI emission standards. The engines will be mated to 6 speed manual and automatic transmission options while an all wheel drive variant will also be available. The new diesel 2 liter Mahindra engine is expected to deliver 180 hp on the new XUV500 – most powerful Mahindra car till date.
Once launched, the next gen XUV500 could be priced higher as compared to its current model which is priced from Rs. 12.31 lakhs to Rs. 18.52 lakhs. It will continue to challenge the likes of MG Hector, Jeep Compass, Tata Harrier, Kia Seltos and soon to be launched Hyundai Creta 7 seater.
