Mahindra & Mahindra has an ambitious plan for multiple new SUVs, some of which have already entered the testing phase. Among them are the 5-door Thar and the XUV.e8 EV. The 5-door Mahindra Thar is confirmed for a launch in 2024, while the launch timeline for the XUV.e8 EV is still undisclosed. Recently, spy shots of a heavily camouflaged test mule of a new Mahindra Coupe SUV surfaced, but the exact model remains unknown. It could be one of Mahindra’s upcoming electric SUVs (from the BE range) or possibly the new-generation Mahindra XUV500.
Notably, Mahindra discontinued the XUV500 after the introduction of the XUV700 in 2021. However, it is expected to make a comeback as a 5-seater model to compete with popular SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The mid-size SUV segment is witnessing increased competition with the introduction of new products like the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder, and more new entrants are expected from Honda (Elevate) and Tata (Curvv) in the next couple of years.
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Mahindra is keen on tapping into the growing midsize SUV market, and the new-generation XUV500, codenamed S301, could play a crucial role in achieving this. The new 5-seater SUV is likely to be around 4.3 meters long, similar to the Hyundai Creta. Mahindra might use the XUV300’s platform and engines for this midsize SUV. The XUV300 subcompact SUV is currently available with the 1.5L diesel (117bhp), 1.2L turbo petrol MPFI (120bhp), and 1.2L turbo petrol T-GDi (130bhp) engine options. There is a possibility that Mahindra may tune these powertrains to generate extra power and torque for the new XUV500.
As of now, official launch details and key specifications of the new Mahindra XUV500 are yet to be revealed. It is rumored to arrive sometime in 2024 and is expected to be priced between Rs 11 lakh to Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom). The company seems determined to establish a strong presence in the midsize SUV market with this new offering.
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