Mahindra XUV700 is now the Flagship SUV from Mahindra, but before the XUV700 was launched there was another SUV that started it all, the Mahindra XUV500. XUV500 had a successful outing since its introduction in 2011. Mahindra has confirmed via their social media post the current generation XUV500 will be discontinued. The decade-long stint of XUV500 has come to an end after the launch of its successor XUV 700.
A look back at its journey
The XUV500 got so popular in such a way that Mahindra initially had to halt bookings for a while and rely on a lottery system for deliveries. The XUV500 was the first Mahindra car to be built on a new Monocoque architecture instead of the traditional body-on-frame platform and get a front-wheel drive.
XUV500 at the time was offered with a 155PS 2.2-litre diesel and a 141PS 2.2-litre petrol engine, each paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. However, only the diesel variant had an optional 6-speed manual and an AWD. XUV500 at the time offered features like a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a single pane sunroof and cruise control. Taking care of passenger safety were six airbags, an electronic stability program and rear parking sensors.
The XUV500 got two facelifts, a major one in 2015 and again in 2018. Back in 2015, Mahindra had made extensive changes to the exterior designs. As a result, the front featured a new Chrome grill projector headlamps with LED. Moreover, the fog lamps got a Chrome bezel.
The latter treatment is similar to the ones seen in the new Scorpio. The hood got creases that gave it a muscular look while the side profile of the vehicle displayed the new 17-inch alloy wheels concluding the updates. Windows now got Chrome Linux for more luxurious appeal. An update in 2018 included logo projection lamps, push start-stop button, keyless entry and rain-sensing wiper. SUV also featured a 6-way power-adjustable driver seat, fully automatic climate control, Steering Wheel with tilt and Telescopic function electrical operable.
The XUV500 was available in seven different versions: models like W5, W7, W7 AT, W9, W9 AT, W11 opt and W11 opt AT. At the time of discontinuation, XUV500 was priced at Rs 15.56 Lakhs to 20.07 Lakhs [ex-showroom].