The 2015 Mahindra XUV500 facelift will get subtle tweaks to the existing styling, while updates are likely to include an automatic transmission and diesel hybrid powertrain.
Launched in 2011, the Mahindra XUV500 opened to rave reviews and positive sales with demand surpassing supply and has been doing steady numbers much to the disappointment of its rivals, three years since launch. In a bid to retain the momentum, Mahindra has commenced work on a mid-lifecycle update and the facelifted XUV500 was spotted recently during one of its test runs in Chennai. Covered with partial camouflage, the facelift will get subtle tweaks to the styling with changes to the bumper and grille at the front, while the rear will see some basic revisions including an updated tail gate.
Mahindra is also working to add an automatic transmission to the XUV500 that will be paired to the existing 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine tuned to produce 140 BHP of power and 330 Nm of torque. The automatic transmission however will only be available on the top-of-the-line W8 variant with All-Wheel Drive as standard. In addition, the Indian auto giant could bring in the diesel-hybrid version of the XUV500 this year that was first showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo and will be the first-of-its-kind vehicle in the country.
While details are scarce on the launch date, we believe that Mahindra will be reserving the facelifted XUV500 for the second half of the year. Apart from the exterior tweaks, we also expect to see changes to the mechanicals for improved fuel efficiency, while minor niggles should be addressed as well. The Indian auto giant sold 35,088 units last year and is expected to do a similar number this year as well. More details are expected to follow as we get closer to the launch.
Source – Motor Vikatan
