When it comes to rugged yet refined SUVs in India, one name has always stood out — the Mahindra XUV500. Since its original launch years ago, the XUV500 built a reputation for being a powerful, spacious, and feature-rich SUV that was equally at home in city traffic and off-road adventures. Now, Mahindra has given this much-loved SUV a fresh lease of life with a redesigned version that not only looks more modern but also feels more premium, both inside and out.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into what makes the new XUV500 a compelling option in India’s increasingly competitive mid-size SUV market.
A New Look That Commands Attention
The first thing you’ll notice about the updated XUV500 is its bold, aggressive stance. Mahindra has worked hard to make sure this SUV turns heads wherever it goes. At the front, it sports a wider grille with chrome accents, giving it a commanding presence. The sharper LED projector headlamps with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs) further enhance its assertive face.
The sculpted bonnet and muscular character lines add to its powerful look, while the restyled rear bumper and slim LED tail lamps complete the rear profile. The addition of 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels elevates the vehicle’s premium quotient, making sure it stands out in the crowded SUV segment.
Whether you’re cruising through the city or venturing out on a road trip, the new XUV500 ensures you do so in style.
A Cabin That Prioritizes Luxury and Comfort
Step inside the new Mahindra XUV500, and it’s clear that the company has paid attention to both aesthetics and functionality. The cabin is now a more luxurious space with quilted tan leather seats, soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door trims, and a piano black finish on the centre console.
The SUV also boasts a dual-screen setup featuring a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a similarly sized touchscreen infotainment system. Both screens are neatly integrated, giving the dashboard a modern and uncluttered look.
Adding to the sense of luxury are features like:
- Wireless smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
- Panoramic sunroof for a roomier, airier feel
- Ambient lighting to set the mood
- Ventilated front seats to keep occupants cool during summer drives
These enhancements make the XUV500’s cabin not just a place to sit in but a place to enjoy every journey.
Smart Connectivity and Cutting-Edge Technology
Modern-day SUVs aren’t just about power and space; they need to be tech-savvy too. The XUV500 keeps up with this demand by incorporating Mahindra’s AdrenoX connected car technology. This system allows you to remotely access and control various vehicle functions via a smartphone or smartwatch.
Features include:
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates for the latest software improvements
- Remote lock/unlock and vehicle tracking
- Climate control management from your phone
- Smartwatch connectivity for added convenience
These features ensure that owners stay connected with their vehicles no matter where they are, adding to the overall ownership experience.
Engine Performance: Power Meets Precision
At the heart of the XUV500 lies a tried-and-tested 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine. This robust powertrain produces 155 PS of power and 360 Nm of torque, offering more than enough muscle for both city driving and highway cruising.
The engine is now paired with an electronic variable geometry turbocharger (eVGT), improving throttle response, especially at lower RPMs. This makes driving in stop-and-go traffic easier while ensuring ample power when overtaking on highways.
Buyers have the option of choosing between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission, both of which deliver smooth and reliable performance. Additionally, select variants come with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option equipped with torque management systems, making it capable of tackling rough terrains and tricky weather conditions with ease.
Improved Ride and Handling
Mahindra has made notable improvements to the suspension setup of the new XUV500, resulting in a better ride quality. Whether you’re navigating pothole-ridden city streets or cruising on the highway, the SUV offers a balanced and comfortable ride.
The enhanced suspension, coupled with the AWD capabilities in top variants, makes the XUV500 a dependable partner for weekend getaways, hilly drives, and countryside adventures.
Top-Notch Safety Features
Safety remains a key priority in the new XUV500. It’s loaded with essential safety technologies and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to protect both the driver and passengers.
Key safety highlights include:
- Six airbags for comprehensive protection
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with rollover mitigation
- Hill-hold assist and hill descent control
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Level-2 ADAS features such as:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
- 360-degree camera system for improved visibility
These features make the XUV500 one of the safest vehicles in its class, providing peace of mind to families and adventure-seekers alike.
Price Range and Competition
The new XUV500 is positioned strategically in India’s competitive SUV market. Prices start at ₹12.32 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai) for the base W5 diesel variant and go up to ₹17.88 lakh for the fully loaded W11(O) automatic variant.
In terms of competition, the XUV500 locks horns with popular SUVs like:
- Tata Safari
- MG Hector Plus
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
Despite stiff competition, the XUV500 holds its ground with a unique blend of muscular styling, luxurious interiors, powerful performance, and connected car technology — a combination that few rivals can match at this price point.
FAQs About the New Mahindra XUV500
Q. What is the price range of the new XUV500?
The XUV500 is priced between ₹12.32 lakh and ₹17.88 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai).
Q. What engine options are available in the XUV500?
It comes with a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine delivering 155 PS and 360 Nm of torque.
Q. Does the XUV500 have AWD capability?
Yes, select variants offer all-wheel drive (AWD) with torque management for better off-road handling.
Q. What smart features does the XUV500 offer?
The SUV is equipped with AdrenoX connected car technology, wireless smartphone integration, dual 10.25-inch displays, and more.
Q. Who are the main competitors of the XUV500?
It competes with the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos in the mid-size SUV market.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the New XUV500?
The updated Mahindra XUV500 is an ideal choice for:
- Families looking for a spacious, safe, and feature-rich SUV
- Adventure enthusiasts who need a capable SUV with AWD and rugged performance
- Buyers who appreciate premium interiors and modern features without breaking the bank
- People seeking a trusted Indian brand known for reliability and after-sales support
With its bold new look, refined cabin, improved ride comfort, and smart technology, the new XUV500 successfully combines the best of both worlds — luxury and toughness. It’s not just an SUV; it’s a statement on wheels.
