Mahindra XUV 500 at Rs 10-10.5 Lakh!
30 March, 2012 : There are chances that utility king Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) might launch a low priced variant of hot seller Mahindra XUV 500. The lesser priced version will witness some sort of trim down in interior features of the macho SUV, which till now has been the distinctive aspect. The amends will be done at the central console and dashboard along with the use of reasonable fabric material, whereas there won’t be any changes under hood. This slashed priced version will cost somewhat around INR 10-10.5 Lakh that will be enough to eat the remaining market share of Tata Safari. .
Mahindra XUV 500 Review by Expert
The prominent utility vehicle manufacturer in India, Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) that has gained a firm grip over the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) market over the decades has once again set the rock over the roads with its all new hulk, Mahindra XUV 500. Here a full sized premium sedan in crossbred into a beefy 4x4 off-roader that results into the birth of a new age SUV by Mahindra.
The new senior is more civilized andmore polished beast compared to existing stable mates Mahindra Scorpio and Mahindra Bolero. This is the very first Indian SUV that has made life miserable for the global vehicles like Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour with its aggressive pricing that falls around Rs 11.58 Lakh for base 4X2 version, while climbs up to Rs 14.11 Lakh for high end 4X4 model.
Theoverall design of the vehicle is inspired by a ‘Cheetah’, and same blood of swiftest mammal has been injected in the veins of this Mahindra XUV 500. The front spells aggression at its very best, with decently carved twin barrel headlamp along with signature Mahindra grille that is tweaked to showcase more imposing look together with well-built upright stance. The monocoque construction of the SUV offers long wheel base, aerodynamic roof that is a bit tapering downwards in the front along with over sized wheel fenders and arches bestow it a premium yet solid structure.
The inside is packed with ‘space’, advanced gadgets and utmost comfortable seats that make longer journeys look minimal. In the interiors one can sense the premium-ness that was earlier never a part of Mahindra’s sturdy vehicles. Every single element at the front seats is neatly done, be it central console or the instrument panel or even the smart looking leather wrapped steering wheel. Although, the other two rows offer optimum comfort with plush leather seats and there is convenience factor with loads of cubby holes. Safety has been aptly taken care of, which is a surprise in Mahindra vehicles with as many as 6-airbags and the likes of ABS with EBD along with Hill descent control, moreover there are seat belts for all.
Under the hood, the master of all slaves, 2.2L, mHawk140, diesel power train roars out 140 bhp of sheer power alongside topmost torque of 330 Nm. With this kind of diesel motor an action performance is guaranteed, while the engine is further coupled with a 6-speed synchromesh manual gearbox for perfect control of this powerfully built 4X4 off roader.
Direct Competitor of Mahindra XUV 500
To be straightforward, this Mahindra SUV has no competition as far as its polished brawny looks and brilliant interior aspects are concerned, the chock-a-block bookings are a proven fact of the same. But still, currently the one posing some contest is Tata Aria Crossover. Compared to Tata vehicle, XUV 500 is well equipped, with every feature one cannot expect out of a Mahindra vehicle, and that is true. Both are competent on the power and performance front along with offering of some modern and advanced features inside the cabin. While at some adventurous off-roading in the 4X4 version, Aria is left behind by this civilized beast, although Tata has equipped it with a 4X4 mechanism too. But the price, at which Mahindra SUV drops in, is just a remarkable achievement for the company and a time for joy for its buyers that results in giving out right value for their money. The difference between the base variant of the two is around Rs 40,000, while the high end variant variation is of whopping Rs 2.5 Lakh.
| Mahindra XUV 500 Direct Competitors Table |
| Model |
Engine |
Mileage (City/Highway) |
Acceleration (0-100 kph) |
Unique features |
Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) |
| Mahindra XUV 500 |
2179 cc |
12 kmpl / 14 kmpl |
13.6 seconds |
distinctive looks, worth price, features |
Rs 12.45 Lakh |
| Tata Aria |
2179 cc |
10.2 kmpl / 14.5 kmpl |
14.1 seconds |
safety, practicality, features |
Rs 14.26 Lakh |
| Force One |
2149 cc |
11 kmpl / 14 kmpl |
15.2 Seconds |
engine, space, affordable price |
Rs 11.25 Lakh |
Mahindra XUV 500 Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The all new Mahindra XUV 500 is not just a delight in what it houses but most of all it sits in the top of the mileage as well compared to its rivals in the segment. The XUV 500 is optimized to deliver a sharp 12 Kmpl in the city that is filled with potholes and jam packed traffic. At the same time, a fuel efficiency of about 14 Kmpl can be achieved on open roads and smooth highways. All the variants of the Mahindra XUV 500 come with the same statistics and deliverance. This superior Mahindra XUV 500 mileage has the backing of a polished technology in the form of ‘mHawk’ power train. With this kind of achievement, Mahindra has once again proved its reliability quotient that has never been in question.
| Variant |
Mileage (City) |
Mileage (Highway) |
| Mahindra XUV 500 W6 |
12 Kmpl |
14 Kmpl |
| Mahindra XUV 500 W8 2WD/ 4WD |
12 Kmpl |
14 Kmpl |
Mahindra XUV 500 Models and Features
| Mahindra XUV 500 Models |
Features |
| Mahindra XUV 500 W6 |
The features comprise of static bending projector headlamps with LED parking lights, 6-inch monochrome infotainment display and integrated music system with 4-speaker that has function of CD/ MP3, iPod and USB connectivity. The power-steering comes with tilt function along with premium fabric seats, power windows and 8-way adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support. |
| Mahindra XUV 500 W8 2WD |
The high end feature list includes 6-inch touch screen (color) infotainment display and GPS Navigation with touch-screen and audio support alongside cruise control, audio control, phone control together with voice command switches on the telescopic steering wheel. For optimum convenience there is fully automatic temperature control, remote tailgate opening and mobile charging points. |
| Mahindra XUV 500 W8 4WD |
The features consist of adequate safety with 6-airbags, Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) along with Hill Hold & Descent control and all wheel disc-brakes. The reading lamps in all 3-rows, rear demister, follow-me home headlamps rear wash & wipe along with large glove box with laptop holder and flat folding 2nd & 3rd row seats that proves handy inside. The other features are same as mid variant. |
Compare Mahindra XUV 500 Models

The long anticipated SUV from Mahindra; the XUV 500 is available with both 2WD and 4WD variants. The W6 variant has been placed under a price tag of 10 lacs INR whereas; the W8 variants of the SUV have been placed within 11- 13 lacs INR. Stationed at a worthy price tag, the Mahindra XUV 500 features leather upholstery, steering mounted audio controls, park assist with parking sensors, six airbags for safety along with ABS, EBD and cruise control. Detailed features have been well mentioned in the table above.
Mahinda XUV 500 Colors
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Tuscan Red |
Amazon Green |
Volcano Black |
Satin White |
Opulent Purple |
Moondust Silver |
Dolphin Grey |
Click Here to see more Mahindra XUV 500 Photos
Mahindra XUV 500 Engine, Power and Performance
The Mahindra XUV 500 comes with a single choice of 2.2L mHawk diesel engine. The internally developed mHawk technology is combined with VGT or the Variable Geometry turbocharger in order to extract the most excellent performance from all new Mahindra XUV 500. The magnificently powerful engine of the XUV 500 has a displacement of about 2179 cc and leads to ultimate power and strength of the vehicle. The acclaimed Mahindra XUV 500 diesel engine delivers a maximum power of 140 bhp at 3750 rpm besides a peak torque of 330 Nm at 1600-2800 rpm. Just as any other mHawk, one of which is placed under hood of Mahindra Scorpio, the engine has a micro hybrid platform responsible for finest direct injection mechanism. The calm yet raging engine of the XUV 500 takes you across country unconditionally. The engine is well supportive of a 6 speed gearbox for transmission.
Mahindra XUV 500 Pickup and Acceleration
| Model Engine |
Max. Power (BHP/ RPM) |
Max. Torque (NM/ RPM) |
Acceleration (0- 100 kph) |
Top Speed |
| Mahindra XUV500 mHawk |
140/ 3750 |
330/ 1600-2800 |
13.6 seconds |
185 Kmph |

The mHawk VGT (Variable Geometry Turbocharger) engine of the Mahindra XUV 500 stuns everyone with its superiority to roars a hefty power of about 140 PS at 3750 rpm. On the other hand the top torque produced is of 330 Nm at 1600-2800 rpm.
Mahindra XUV 500 pickup is a class leading factor in the segment, as it is higher compared to rivals like Tata Aria Crossover and Force One SUV. With its 6-speed synchromesh manual gear box it reaches 100 kph from standstill in mere 13.6 seconds. Nevertheless, to make adventures more enthralling it can reach up to a top speed of 185 kmph. It is heard that there are chances of Automatic Transmission (AT) coming in to join the muscle SUV, which is heartening news for its lovers in the country.
Mahindra XUV 500 Interiors and Features
The Mahindra XUV 500 is typically an SUV in the manner that it is has been made to deliver comfort and luxury above all. The supreme excellence of the interiors is reflected in the premium leather and top class upholstery and the entire ambience inside the cabin of the car. The XUV 500 has a dashboard like no other. The much like the shiny leather sewing, the contour of the interior dash is excellent with the tachometer and the central console with the infotainment console and other ergonomic controls that outline the much like perfected internal appearance. The multifunctional steering of the XUV looks trendy and astounding in style. The AC vents are typical of their half recta design. The red illuminations at the ergonomic panel look stunning and, catch the maroon interior upholstery style as well. The classy finish of chrome and leather at the dash seems soothing and very soft to the touch. The gear knob and the steering both have the same sort of leather finish. The wooden polish and finish at the center of the dash is also a remarkable note to the interiors. The instrument cluster has well lit and scintillating illuminations. All the functional controls including the storage facility at the front panel has been excellently finished and designed.
There are plenty of storage facilities such as that of the bottle and can holders, chiller, glove box and the magazine holders. The door trims have leather sewing too that it makes it even more adorable. The armrests are quite a charm with the leather too. The adjustable headrests of the Mahindra XUV 500 provide maximum comfort and the center armrest at the rear portion as well is a marvel. The panelized accessory vault is simply outstanding. The seats are as capacious and comfortable as should have been. The memory function and the lumbar adjustment support for height in the driver seat is also incredible. There are other comfortable features that further add to the class like the thigh support and extra elevation for the back. Ample space to sit, sleep and eat, the XUV is nothing but your very own presidential suite on wheels. The seats at the rear are foldable so as to get more room for luggage.
The platinum finish can also be found on the side walls of the doors and floors as well. Small traces though, yet make it quite charming for the passenger to feel a pleasant surrounding inside the cabin of the car. Everything in the interiors of Mahindra XUV 500 is worth a standing ovation.
Mahindra XUV 500 Exteriors and Features
The all new Mahindra XUV 500 has been given a meaner and more dramatic look in the front with a uniquely shaped and carved grille that makes an intense and bold appeal. The headlamps have been shaped and carved with respect to the grille. The front fascia looks outstandingly bold and gigantic due to the combination of the huge bumpers, the grille and the mighty headlamps. The Mahindra logo at the centre of the grille adds more definition to the intense look of the car. The rear is equally appreciable with the tail lights straightened and edged well. The body line is massive and more impressive. From almost every angle, the SUV boasts of its strength and muscle and outshines. The looks are outstanding and strength is sheer in the Mahindra XUV 500. Not just the looks that the SUV puts on with weight but also the features like roof rails, rear wash and wipe, headlamp sensors, rain sensors etc. make it even more applaud able.
The Mahindra XUV 500 exteriors are as incredible as the interiors and deserve equal importance and praises. The commendable and respectful front of the XUV has volumes of appreciation. The BI- Xenon multi reflector headlamps with LED with an arrogant look make way for the outstandingly strong and bold front fascia of the car. The sharp and sleek design of the muscular XUV makes its own definition of an SUV. The grille is partially divided with the immensely intense curve that bifurcate the superior insignia of the company. The glorious wheel arches are dramatic and very impulsive in their design. The bold and high alloys of the Mahindra XUV 500 further contribute to its bully look. The body lines running in to the bonnet scoop and continuing along the sides of the car to the rear look beamish. The bonnet is very impulsive and imposing.
The highlight of the SUV is its dynamic rear that has bit like a Xylo appearance with the curvy and much embedded LED tail lights. The rear complements the front of Mahindra XUV 500 in every real sense and looks as appreciable. The mounted side stepper and the climber look sturdy and remind the reasonable height of the SUV. The door handles are sheer chunks of metal and quite heavy. Although the Mahindra XUV 500 somewhat offers a trace of elegance as sedan with the side skirts that look adorable. The grandeur of the rear wheel arches look very astonishing and sporty at the same time. The ORVMs are pretty favorable to the overall built of the vehicle. The rims of the car look sensuous and the body kit is magnetic in its own way with the off-road and rusty appearance.
Safety Features in Mahindra XUV 500
The Mahindra XUV 500 has been well loaded with advanced safety features like the ABS (Antilock Brake System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) to reduce the chances skidding the car in case of sudden apply of brake at slippery surface. Six airbags provide utmost safety in case of collision and reduces the chance of facing any unwanted situation. The park assist feature along with rear parking sensors is definitely an additional safety measure which is very much needed with such a huge vehicle. Fog lamps, rear defogger, high mounted stop lamps etc are also enlisted in the long list.
Mahindra XUV 500 has an intelli-park system for automatic parking sense; moreover the car has got light sensing headlamps that automatically dim when more intensity of light is sensed. The sides curtains airbags provide ultra-care and the hill hold and hill descent are some other very useful controls that help maintain grip on mountainous regions. The rain sensing wipers,” follow me home” headlamps are other features. Also the XUV comes well equipped with the ESP (Electronic stability program) with on spot mitigation and the last but not the least, the XUV has got a programmable smart key entrance that prevents thefts, leave aside the central locking and the engine immobilizer that have become a usual phenomenon.
Driving and Handling of Mahindra XUV 500
The adventure comes easy in the XUV 500 with superb driving and steering control, the transmission of the SUV is as smooth as could possibly be. The cruise control is simply terrific. Everything that ranges from the GPS navigation system with audio support, rain sensors, light sensing headlamps, park assist, brake assist, ESP, tire tronics and the hill hold and hill descent control is truly outstanding in the new XUV 500. Moreover the XUV has the most firm suspensions ever, including the front McPherson strut type with anti- roll bar and the rear multi- link type with anti- roll bar. The brakes are superb and the transmission is smooth in the XUV 500.
Mahindra XUV 500 Accessories
The all new Mahindra XUV 500 has been blessed with a 6” color display infotainment audio system with CD/ DVD player associated with 6 speakers and 2 tweeters on the dash. Other accessories include leather cladding etc. Apart from this, the car has a GPS navigation system with audio support as well.
Mahindra XUV 500 Conclusion
The premium SUV market is off to get heated in coming days as Mahindra is set to launch the awaited premium SUV Mahindra Rexton, from acquired Ssangyong stable. The battle within will be attention-grabbing after its launch. As Mahindra XUV 500 is one of the finest and premium most vehicles from the UV makers den and with more luxurious Rexton the competition will be stiff.
Coming back straight to Mahindra XUV 500, the vehicle with unmatched performance and extraordinary features is for those who are seriously up for a vehicle with apt attitude to take on anything. The most appealing aspect about Mahindra XUV 500, besides marvelous exteriors, is that rather than manufacturing it by traditional mode, it is produced in one piece by utilizing the global standards of aero-dynamical monocoque design.
The company has procured many initiatives in Mahindra XUV 500, for example safety; which was never a major part of Mahindra badge SUVs, this time it boasts plenty. Next comes is interior quality that never gathered praises, however not same this time, as it posses plush quality inside. All these incredible characteristics of Mahindra XUV 500 have put global SUVs in India to shame, with its beyond belief price tag.