The Mahindra XUV500 adapts to European taste

Mahindra XUV500

Mahindra, thanks to its globalisation programme, has adapted the new Mahindra XUV500 towards a more European taste. It stands out for its redesigned front end, 17″ alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design, twin oval rear exhaust pipes, even more complete equipment and the new technological solutions. Great care has been taken with aerodynamics to reduce air resistance and keep wind noise to a minimum, which is evident in a steeply raked windscreen and the smooth, rounded lines of the entire bodywork.

The Indian manufacturer has opted for a unitary body in order to enhance the comfort of its 7 occupants. This also benefits the cabin space available to passengers and the boot volume, which can reach 1,520 litres with all the second and third row seats folded down. The tailgate is equipped with remote-controlled opening.

The three second-row seats folded down in a 60/40 split and the two third-row seats can be folded forwards individually to organise a mixed transport of people and objects in many different ways, demonstrating the versatility of the Mahindra XUV500.

Mahindra XUV500

Inside the new Mahindra XUV500, the infotainment system provides full connectivity for both driver and front passenger. Through this system you can access vehicle information, the GPS navigation system, and listen to music via the radio, CD/MP3 and iPod connection. It features four speakers mounted in the doors and two tweeters in the dashboard, a USB port, and a 7″ LCD touchscreen through which all connected functions can be accessed.

It is available in two versions: one with front-wheel drive (FWD) and another with all-wheel drive (AWD). The latter has an electro-hydraulic differential electronically controlled to ensure optimal torque distribution between the front and rear axles in all situations. The driver can select all-wheel drive at any time by pressing the button on the centre console.

The standard equipment is extensive, including features such as the electronic climate control, Intelliparking assist for parking manoeuvres, hill descent control, cruise control, anti-rollback system, navigation with touchscreen monitor (W8 versions), laterally adjustable headlights, driver’s seat adjustable in 8 different ways, front, side and curtain airbags (W8 version). At the W8 trim level there is also a chrome trim on the tailgate and leather upholstery (the W6 trim has cloth).

Mahindra XUV500 interior

The steering wheel, which is adjustable for height and reach, features a series of controls on the spokes that allow you to control the audio system, activate voice commands, use the phone and access cruise control.

Other systems such as electronic hill descent control, electronic stability control (ESP), anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution, and the standard electronic anti-roll system contribute to its stability on and off the road. The new suspension designed by Lotus, MacPherson at the front and multi-link at the rear, with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, also contributes to this.

As for the mechanics, there is nothing new, as it continues to use the 2.2 m-Hawk common-rail turbodiesel engine with variable geometry and Start & Stop function, producing 140 CV. It is coupled to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The Mahindra XUV500 MY16 is now available at dealerships across Spain, with a starting price for the FWD W6 version of €20,620, while the top-of-the-range version, AWD W8, costs €25,627.

Source | Mahindra