Mahindra XUV500 SUV (codenamed – Mahindra W601) is all set to take a generation leap in terms of design, features and engine mechanism. This time around, the SUV will also receive the brand-new petrol and diesel powertrains. The carmaker has confirmed that the new-generation XUV500 will hit showrooms in the first quarter of the 2021 calendar year. Once launched, the 2021 Mahindra XUV500 will go head-to-head against the upcoming Tata Gravitas and MG Hector Plus SUVs.
Here’re the top 10 changes that are expected to be made on the new-generation Mahindra XUV500.
1. All-new platform
The all-new XUV500 will be designed on an all-new platform that’s likely to be more agile than the existing one. It will also be ready for the future safety norms. Official details about the new platform are yet to be revealed by the carmaker.
2. Funster inspired design
The home-grown carmaker unveiled the Mahindra Funster convertible SUV concept at this year’s Auto Expo. The 2021 Mahindra XUV500 is likely to feature body panels and interior bits similar to the Funster. The SUV will carry a more squish design along with flatter hood and door panels and an upright nose. Check Out – 2020 Mahindra Thar 4-Door Imagined With Jeep Wrangler Inspired Design
While the front grille will have familiar Mahindra design, the headlamp units will be slightly smaller than the existing ones. There will be Mahindra’s signature vertically positioned DRLs that made its debut on the XUV300. The LED headlamps and DRLs are likely to be reserved for the higher trims.
3. Flush-fitting door handles
The second-generation Mahindra XUV500 will come with flush-fitting door handles instead of its distinctive ‘cheetah claw’ handles. As of now, there is no clarity whether the new units will be power operated or have pop-out function as we have seen in the new Range Rover SUVs and Tesla models. The carmaker might also opt for the Aston Martin-like lever-type arrangement. These bits will also improve aerodynamics of the SUV.
4. Full-digital instrument cluster
The SUV will also receive a fully digital instrument cluster. Though, it could be exclusively offered on the higher trims. The dashboard is likely to share resemblance with the Funster concept. Similar to the current generation, the new one will have the three-row seats arrangement. Read – Top 12 Unique Features of The New Mahindra XUV300
5. Updated infotainment
The new XUV500 will get an updated touchscreen infotainment system. The existing model comes fitted with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment unit supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with Connected Apps.
6. Flat-bottom steering
Ditching the existing round unit, the new-generation XUV500 will feature a flat-bottom steering wheel.
7. Better packaging
The 2021 Mahindra XUV500 might have better seats packaging with improved legroom for the second and third row seats passengers. The SUV will continue have a monocoque construction. Read – Mahindra XUV300 Electric Launch On Time
8. Safer than before
The new-generation model will have better structural integrity and more safety features to meet the new crash test norms. The company aims to achieve higher crash test ratings for the new XUV500. For safety provision, the SUV is likely to offer 6 airbags, electronic stability program (ESP) along with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).
9. New petrol engine
As mentioned above, the new-generation model lineup will be made available with Mahindra’s newly-developed 2.0L mStallion petrol engine. The new motor will be boosted with the turbochargers and direct injection system. It will deliver power close to 190bhp and 380Nm of torque. Read – Mahindra-Ford To Jointly Develop 3 New SUVs in India
10. BS6 diesel motor
The SUV will also come with a new 2.2L diesel engine that will be more powerful than the existing oil burner. In order to make it BS6-compliant, the carmaker has calibrate the unit with SCR (selective catalytic reduction) and a DPF (diesel particulate filter). Similar to the current generation, the new one will be offered with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
