Mahindra has significantly improved the XUV500 with the facelift, adding loads of chrome, new features and a new range-topping W10 variant on offer.
Ending the months of spy shots and teasers, Mahindra has officially launched the 2015 XUV500 facelift in the country with prices starting from Rs. 11.21 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). With the new model, the Indian automaker is ensuring to keep the XUV500 relevant amidst new competition with a redesigned front fascia, a host of new features inside the cabin and a new top-of-the-line ‘W10’ variant added to the lineup. Here is what Mahindra has to offer with the facelifted variant.
Styling – While the overall silhouette from the outgoing version has been retained, the major exterior changes on the 2015 Mahindra XUV500 facelift include a new contoured bonnet and a revised gloss black grille finished in chrome for a premium appeal. The fog lamps have been repositioned a bit higher on the new version and get finished with large L-shaped chrome enclosures. The SUV gets new static bending headlamps along with the new ‘S’ shaped LED DRLs (light guides in Mahindra speak) added to the headlight cluster. The side profile remains the same save for the new 10-spoke alloy wheels and gets a chrome lining around the windows; whereas the rear gets a chrome finished registration plate enclosure and a mildly updated tailgate. There are two new colours on offer including sunset orange and pearl while in addition to 5 existing colours.
Interiors – Without making any changes to the dashboard layout, the 2015 Mahindra XUV500 gets a whole new set of features on offer. Apart from the existing features on the W8 trim, there is the new range-topping ‘W10’ variant added to the lineup that comes loaded with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with GPS navigation, reverse camera with zoom function; 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, electric sunroof, keyless entry, push button start and an express up and down driver side window. The cabin has been finished in in black and gets beige upholstery on the new model.
Mahindra has also equipped the XUV500 facelift with Voice Messaging System (VMS) that indicates when the door is open, handbrake engaged or seat belt needs to be worn. Another interesting feature available on the W10 version are the logo projection lamps ORVMs that project the ‘XUV500’ lettering when opened. There is also the Mahindra Blue Sense app on offer. The interior gets an icy blue mood lighting that extends to the instrument cluster.
Engine – Power continues to come from the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine from the outgoing version on the XUV500 facelift that is tuned to produce 140 BHP of power at 3750 RPM and 330 Nm of torque between 1600-2800 RPM, paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox with All-Wheel Drive available on higher variants. The lower variants continue to come with the front-wheel drive setup. Mahindra says that the enhanced drivetrain ratios have improved drivability and the suspension setup has been updated on the XUV500 facelift which translates to better ride quality on the SUV. The XUV500 has been updated with ESP 9 with roll over mitigation from Bosch in addition to ABS and other safety features.
Fuel Efficiency – The fuel efficiency figures have been improved on the 2015 XUV500 facelift and now returns an ARAI certified figure of 16 km/l, courtesy of the brake energy regeneration system and updated drivertrain ratios.
The XUV500 was a hit in the market from the first day of launch with demand outpacing supply. The company sold 1 lakh units within 3 years and the SUV even today does over 2000 units every month. The automaker has started accepting bookings for the facelifted version with deliveries to commence immediately as well. The 2015 XUV500 will be rivaling the recently updated Tata Safari Storme, Nissan Terrano, Renault Duster and the likes in the segment and has seen a marginal escalation in prices. Mahindra will have 9 launches this year including 3 brand new products, 3 major refreshes and 3 minor refreshes.
2015 Mahindra XUV500 Facelift Prices (ex-showroom, Delhi) –
* XUV500 W4 – Rs. 11.21 Lakhs
* XUV500 W6 – Rs. 12.48 Lakhs
* XUV500 W8 – Rs. 14.18 Lakhs
* XUV500 W8 AWD – Rs. 14.99 Lakhs
* XUV500 W10 FWD – Rs. 14.99 Lakhs
* XUV500 W10 AWD – Rs. 15.99 Lakhs
