Mahindra has upgraded the XUV500 to the latest emission norms. Prices for the three-row SUV now range from Rs 13.20 lakh for the base W5 variant to Rs 17.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the top-end W11(O) trim. The entry-level W3 variant has been done away with, as has the option of an automatic transmission, at least for now. The XUV500 is now available only with a sole diesel-manual combination. As such, the BS6 XUV500 costs about Rs 29,000-32,000 more than the equivalent versions of the BS4-spec vehicle. 

The updated XUV500 carries forward the previous model’s 2.2-litre diesel, albeit with tweaks to clean up tailpipe emissions. At 155hp and 360Nm, power and torque figures remain unchanged. Transmission duties are handled solely by a 6-speed manual gearbox, though the Aisin-sourced 6-speed automatic is expected to make a comeback later. The XUV500 range previously also consisted of a 2.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and the choice of all-wheel drive (AWD) functionality (available on the diesel only), however, both the options were culled from the model line-up in 2019 itself. 

Besides the mechanical upgrades, there are no changes to the XUV500, even in terms of equipment. Standard safety features include dual airbags, ABS, EBD, rear parking sensors, seatbelt reminder and a high speed alert system, with higher variants adding four more airbags, ESP, hill-start assist and hill-descent control. In terms of creature comforts, the range topping W11(O) boasts a sunroof, keyless entry and go, automatic air conditioning, 7.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, projector headlamps with LED DRLs, 18-inch alloy wheels, leatherette upholstery and powered driver’s seat. 

The XUV500 directly competes against other diesel-manual SUVs like the Tata Harrier (Rs 13.69-18.95 lakh*) and MG Hector (Rs 13.88-17.73 lakh*) in our market. Mahindra is also ready the thoroughly updated second-gen XUV500 for a launch next year.

*Prices, ex-showroom, India