Auto Expo 2020: Next-Gen Mahindra XUV500 spotted in production-ready form

Aditya Jadhav Updated: January 21, 2020, 08:29 PM IST

Spy pictures of the next generation Mahindra XUV500 confirm that the SUV is currently in the final leg of testing and could be showcased at the Auto Expo 2020 which is scheduled for early next month.

Though heavily camouflaged, the upcoming SUV displayed its proportions and a few styling lines. The roof slopes down by the third row and the sharply chiselled lines that we see on the current XUV500 are expected to be toned down. And a more sophisticated styling package is expected - similar to the Mahindra XUV300. However, Mahindra may retain its signature grille layout on the new SUV.

The cabin as we see in the spy images has been completely rehashed. Expect a completely new centre console with a new and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The instrument cluster is expected to be all digital on higher trim levels. With the new XUV500, Mahindra may offer connected tech that syncs with the user's smartphone and provides necessary data - similar to what we've seen in the Hyundai Venue.

The engine on offer could be the same 2.2-litre diesel engine that is on offer in the current XUV500. The engine will be BSVI compliant. The gearbox on offer will be a six-speed manual gearbox and an optional automatic. The SUV will also get an optional all-wheel-drive system in the higher trim levels.

Expect a price hike of Rs 40,000-60,000 across variants and the SUV could be launched in India by the second quarter of 2020. The cost of the new SUV is expected to range in between Rs 14-20 lakh ex-showroom. The second generation Mahindra XUV500 will continue its rivalry with the Jeep Compass that was recently updated to BSVI and the soon expected third-generation Hyundai Tuscon. Also, the lower variants could be pitched against the Tata Harrier and the MG Hector.

Along with the new Mahindra XUV500, the facelift Mahindra Alturas G4 could be showcased as well. What's more likely is the second generation Mahindra Thar could make its global debut at the Auto Expo 2020.

Stay tuned to OVERDRIVE for extensive coverage of the Auto Expo 2020

Image credits - Arjun Murali