New generation of the XUV500 is expected to be launched early next year in India
After launching the next generation Thar, Mahindra is now all prepped up to introduce the second generation XUV500. As the launch is drawing closer (expected around Q1’21), more test mules of the 2021 XUV500 are getting spotted all across the country. Latest spy shots are credit to SP Auto Tech youtube channel.
New Spyshots reveal Interiors
A latest set of spyshots reveal more details of the interiors of the 2021 XUV500. We get to see the dual-tone interior set-up of the XUV500 for the first time.
It is to be noted that the first generation XUV500 had used multiple materials for the dashboard, which in our opinion looked a little too overdone. It will be interesting to see if the final version of the 2021 XUV500 will come along with a more mature interior design, especially in terms of texture and material selection.
Spyshots also showcase an electric parking brake and a drive mode selector knob. Both these additional features will further add on to XUV500’s already long feature list. The first generation XUV500 too was a loaded product in terms of features and we believe that Mahindra will try and continue with the legacy.
Another set of recent spyshots had suggested that Mahindra might be introducing level 1 autonomous technology on the 2021 XUV500, which in simpler terms means that Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) might be offered on the next generation XUV500. If this happens, XUV500 will become the most affordable car in India to feature level 1 autonomous technology because till date, these features have been restricted to premium cars alone.
Powertrain
Under the hood, 2021 Mahindra XUV500 will pack at least 2 engine options. These would include a reworked 2.2 litre mHawk diesel engine which will be dishing out way more power and torque than the one available on sale as of now. Customers will have the option to choose between a 6-speed MT and a 6-speed AT as transmission options. AWD is expected to be offered on select variants.
The other highlight of the second generation XUV500 will be the availability of a petrol motor. Mahindra will be introducing a 2 litre petrol motor from its new mStallion range of engines. While it is too early to comment upon the power and torque output figures, we are relatively confident that it will come along with both manual and automatic transmission options.
Launch and Competition
Post launch, the second generation XUV500 will try and regain lost ground in its category. It will be competing with the likes of MG Hector (and Hector Plus), upcoming Tata Gravitas and 7-seater version of the Hyundai Creta. Prices will mostly be in the range of INR 13 – 20 lakhs.
