Mahindra has been developing a petrol engine for its XUV500 SUV. The petrol engine will be based on the same engine block that is the foundation of the mHawk 2.2-litre diesel engine. While power figures are unknown, the new 2.2-litre petrol engine will have a choice between a manual and an automatic transmission. Sources tell us that the upcoming petrol XUV500 will only be available in a new G-spec variant.
A left-hand drive – allegedly, petrol-powered – test mule with an automatic transmission was spotted in Dubai a couple of months ago. The manufacturer will launch the facelift for the XUV500 with the same mHawk 2.2-litre diesel engine but with 170hp, a 30hp increase over the current engine. The petrol engine is likely to join thereafter.
The petrol XUV500 will directly rival the newly launched Jeep Compass.
A Scorpio facelift is also coming soon and depending on the response to the petrol XUV500, Mahindra will also offer the Scorpio with same motor.
Image SOURCE
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Suraj Viswanathan
Hormazd Sorabjee
