Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has launched its highly anticipated global SUV, the Mahindra XUV500, at a starting price of Rs 10.8 lakh. This new model aims to bridge the gap between the Scorpio and premium SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and Chevrolet Captiva. With its innovative features and competitive pricing, the XUV500 is set to make waves in both the Indian and international markets.
Mahindra & Mahindra, India's leading SUV manufacturer, has introduced the Mahindra XUV500 at an attractive starting price of Rs 10.8 lakh. The bookings for this much-awaited SUV will commence on Saturday. This launch is considered Mahindra's most significant since the Xylo.
The XUV500 is designed to fill the void between the Scorpio and high-end SUVs such as the Toyota Fortuner, Chevrolet Captiva, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Honda CRV. Available in both 4x2 and 4x4 drive options, the XUV500 aims to cater to a wide range of customers.
Mahindra plans to take the XUV500 global, starting with a launch in South Africa. Over the next six months, the SUV will also be introduced in Australia, South and Central America, Western Europe, and SAARC countries. In India, the XUV500 will initially be available in major metros, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Pune.
In the Indian market, the XUV500 will compete with models like General Motors' Captiva and the Toyota Fortuner, which are priced around Rs 19-20 lakh. M&M's Chief of Operations (Automotive Sector), Rajesh Jejurikar, mentioned that the price of the XUV500 might be revised after three months, depending on commodity prices and other input costs.
The Mahindra XUV500 is a milestone for the company, marking its first indigenously developed monocoque SUV. It features a novel transverse engine layout, a first for Mahindra. The SUV was conceptualized and created to meet global standards in quality, technology, testing norms, regulations, and emissions.
The XUV500 is powered by a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, generating a maximum power of 140 bhp and a torque of 326 Nm. Unlike other Mahindra vehicles, the mHawk engine in the XUV500 is placed in an east-west layout. The SUV also boasts a six-speed manual gearbox developed in-house by Mahindra, along with a front-wheel-drive transfer case. The entry-level variants are front-wheel drive, while another version offers an all-wheel-drive layout with a torque-on-demand mechanism.
The front grille of the XUV500 is a standout feature, complemented by projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights, a large front bumper with a streaked air dam, and recessed fog lamps. The SUV is equipped with disc brakes on all wheels, ensuring superior braking performance.
Safety is a top priority for Mahindra, and the XUV500 is no exception. The SUV comes with ABS, EBD, and ESP as standard features. The front seats are equipped with airbags, and the vehicle also includes a start/stop system and hill descent control for the top-line variant.
Mahindra has made arrangements for an initial production capacity of 2,000 units per month. The company is optimistic about the XUV500's potential to capture a significant market share, both domestically and internationally.
The Mahindra XUV500 is not just another SUV; it is a testament to Mahindra's commitment to innovation, quality, and global aspirations. With its competitive pricing, advanced features, and robust performance, the XUV500 is poised to set new benchmarks in the SUV segment.
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