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.  

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

The stalwart Mahindra XUV500 needs some energetic shades that can match up to its imposing erect stance, hence it is presented in 7 (seven) breathtaking colors. And these consist of Volcano Black, Tuscan Red, Opulent Purple, Moon Dust Silver, Satin White and Dolphin Grey. Among all, the most sold Mahindra XUV500 colors are Satin White, Volcano Black and Dolphin Grey.

Tuscan Red	Volcano Black	Satin White	Opulent Purple	Moondust Silver	Dolphin Grey

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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

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 Mahindra XUV 500 handling and ride quality is extraordinary. All the 3 rows are incorporated with the Macpherson Struts upfront suspension and for optimum rear department there is Multi-link Independent Suspension. In the city conditions, majority of the Mahindra vehicles are good enough, while a risk in handling the likes of Mahindra Xylo and Mahindra Scorpio on highways is sensed, but not with Mahindra XUV 500. Here the monocoque design is light and it allows you to cut corners positively not only at low speeds but also at greater ones. Body roll is experienced; however loads have improved since Mahindra Scorpio, also the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) ensures the accurate direction. Moreover, the steering is quite receptive and goes well as you climb speeds. With ESP-off you can feel the difference, as it will act like just another SUV. On the whole, Mahindra XUV 500 is the most able SUV in the segment.

Mahindra XUV 500 Accessories

The Cheetah inspired Mahindra XUV 500 is not only ahead in terms of available feature-list inside the cabin, but also comes with plentiful adventurous accessory items that are hard to miss. To start with, there is ACE Golfing Kit, a sleek stainless steel thermal flask, emergency car light, adventure kit bag and powerful binoculars alongside sporty looking bottle with clip.

The Cheetah inspired Mahindra XUV 500 is not only ahead in terms of available feature-list inside the cabin, but also comes with plentiful adventurous accessory items that are hard to miss. To start with, there is ACE Golfing Kit, a sleek stainless steel thermal flask, emergency car light, adventure kit bag and powerful binoculars alongside sporty looking bottle with clip.

Mahindra XUV 500 Road Test Report

The applauding beast, called Mahindra XUV 500, unchained by the Indian master of Utility Vehicles (UVs), Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) has been in news more for its bookings since its launch rather than performance and other on road factors. So let’s explore some of its ups and downs in the road test.

To start with Mahindra XUV 500 has got a perfect ground clearance of 200 mm to take on any off-roading stuff anytime. The vehicle is available with solo and favorite engine choice of 2.2L mhawk turbo diesel engine. This is said to be the same as in Mahindra Scorpio, which is half truth, as its upgraded and retuned avatar rests under the hood of Mahindra XUV 500, the refinement is felt while you cruise along. The smoother delivery of power combined with comprehensive torque push and increased pressure says all about the advancement in this CRDi engine. On the go, the ride quality cannot be termed as best in class, but definitely much superior, in comparison to Mahindra’s earlier products say, Mahindra Xylo. 

One notable thing came into frame was, the low-speed ride that was going good until sharp road undulations come into frame, as it gets upset quickly, but due to better and flexible tuning of suspensions the occupants inside never feel the rattle. Over Scorpio, handling is pretty good especially on high speeds, but there is a lot of ‘more’ work to be done on this by Mahindra as still lacks Tata Safari thing. Between acceleration of second and third gear, some unexpected vibrations are felt,which get into some unevenness in the cabin, but gets going very well on the 5 th and flies off smoothly to 6th gear. With 6th gear on, you can move above the speed of 180 Kmph damn easily. And man, these speed figures are just incredible for a vehicle of such dimension.

This marvelous 6-speed manual gear-box is developed in-house by the company. The ingenious mhawk engine handles this transmission well, besides it can optimistically cater to future 6-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) too. The grunt in the engine; which is heard inside, when you put off the audio player needs a work-out in the improved edition of Mahindra XUV 500, since it doesn’t do justice to the refinement and class. The NVH levels are too good, against other stable-mates, while 0-100 in less than 14 seconds is wonderful. The all-disc brakes, with ventilated front and rear solid are flawlessly, and are found in some of prominent SUVs. This along with assistance of ABS, EBD and ESP come as a perfect package.

Mahindra XUV 500 Conclusion

Can’t deny the fact that Mahindra XUV 500 SUV is a thrilling product from utility czar, which as not only provided the much needed boost to the stable but also has set newer benchmarks for the segment and industry in India. Now, the SUVs will not only be brawny but also bountiful and brilliant in terms of interior-exterior craftsmanship. Though the modern culture of crossovers in the country might haunt Mahindra XUV 500 dominance, but it will be a phase that will soon disappear as soon as the consumers realize the competence of true-off roader against urban crossover like Renault Duster and upcoming Ford EcoSport.   

Though in terms of capabilities, they are way behind, however they have go decent caliber that could result in brainwash of a genuine SUV buyer resulting in eating-away of market share of XUV 500 in long term. Furthermore, the real rivalry continues between Tata and Mahindra as Ratan Tata led group has introduced Tata Safari Storme. This facelift of aged Safari is the best one till date and has got all the potential in most aspects to roar unafraid in front of Mahindra XUV 500.

Mahindra XUV 500 FAQs

Q1: Are the bookings for Mahindra XUV 500 4X4 open?  
Answer: Yes. The Mahindra XUV 500 4X4 bookings are open now by the company and the same can be booked at any Mahindra Showroom across the nation.

Q2: Is Mahindra XUV 500 AT launching by Diwali?
Answer: As of now, there is formal declaration on the launch of Mahindra XUV 500 AT (Auto Transmission) in the country. As per market speculations the launch will take place by amid 2013.  

Q3: What is the ARAI mileage of Mahindra XUV 500? And what’s the practical?
Answer: The Mahindra XUV 500 ARAI mileage is of 15.1 kmpl under standard testing conditions. Moreover on the highways the fuel economy achieved can be around 13-14 kmpl, and practical city mileage of Mahindra XUV 500 will be of about 10-11 kmpl.   

Q4: Are there airbags in Mahindra XUV 500 base model?
Answer: Yes. There are dual airbags in the base model of Mahindra XUV 500 i.e. W6 alongside many other advanced safety features.   

Q5:  How long is the waiting period of Mahindra XUV 500 currently?   
Answer: The company has increased the per day production capacity of its manufacturing plants. As a result, the waiting period has gone down and now in these festive times the Mahindra XUV 500 waiting period swings between 1-3 months. The waiting time vary from state to state and model to model, hence for updated information need to contact Mahindra dealership in your city.