Mahindra has introduced the updated XUV500 in South Africa.

Mahindra has given its XUV500 SUV a makeover and it now comes with fresh styling changes as well as a revised interior.

“The XUV500 is a significant vehicle for Mahindra, because it emphasises the brand’s intention to extend its product range beyond its tried and tested utility vehicles,” says Sanjoy Gupta, chief executive officer of Mahindra South Africa.

What’s Changed?

For starters, Mahindra has paid particular attention to the grille, headlights, bonnet and fog lights, which have all been redesigned. The grille features a glossy black finish with chrome accents while the Mahindra badge is now more prominent. The lower air intake has also been reshaped for a more integrated look. Black mesh inserts can now be found on the main grille and lower air intake.

The grille is flanked by new headlights with a curved LED daytime running light signature. Bolder fog lamps are now mounted in restyled apertures which link to the lower edge of the headlights. The bonnet has been reworked and now appears wider contributing to the XUV500’s cheetah-inspired styling.

The door handles have been revised too and now feature a more user-friendly design. The rear-end benefits from a new internal tattoo design for the longitudinal tail lights while the tailgate gets a more prominent chrome Mahindra badge. The Mahindra XUV500 rides new 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres.

On the inside, the XUV500 gets all-black leather upholstery as well as a large 7-inch, full-colour infotainment touchscreen which is standard on the W8 flagship model. The system provides access to satellite navigation, audio functions, Bluetooth and the reverse camera. The system also has iPod-compatible USB sockets. The new black interior features silver accents and three rows of seats can accommodate up to seven passengers.

Standard Features

The XUV500 W8 flagship model comes fitted with auto-sensing headlights and windscreen wipers as well as automatic climate control air conditioning, remote central locking, multi-function steering wheel and cruise control. Electric windows and exterior mirrors are included too as well as a refrigerated centre console and charging points for all three rows of seating.

In terms of safety, the XUV500 is fitted with dual front airbags and side and curtain airbags. ABS with EBD and electronic stability program (ESP) with roll-over mitigation is also included. The XUV500 W6 and W8 versions also feature Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control for added safety.

Engine Power

The facelifted Mahindra XUV is powered by a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 130 kW and 330 Nm of torque through a 6-speed manual transmission powering the rear wheels. The W8 model is available with all-wheel drive too. Fuel consumption is rated 6.5L/100km and with its 70-litre fuel tank, the XUV500 is claimed to achieve over 1000km on a single tank of fuel.

Mahindra XUV500 Price in South Africa

Mahindra XUV500 W4– R262 995

Mahindra XUV500 W6– R304 995

Mahindra XUV500 W8– R339 995

Mahindra XUV500 W8 AWD– R359995

Pricing includes a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan. Services are at 20 000 km intervals or every 12 months.