The Mahindra XUV500 has been one of the most popular SUVs in India, known for its muscular design, powerful engine, premium features, and value-for-money appeal. While newer models like the XUV700 have taken the spotlight, the XUV500 continues to remain in the minds of SUV lovers because of its practicality, spacious interiors, and strong road presence. Let’s explore everything about the Mahindra XUV500 in detail.
Mahindra XUV500 Design and Exterior
- The Mahindra XUV500 comes with a bold and aggressive design that makes it instantly recognizable on the road.
- Its signature cheetah-inspired styling gives it a muscular look with strong lines and a dynamic stance.
- The front fascia features a wide grille with chrome accents, sleek projector headlamps, and LED daytime running lights.
- At the rear, the car carries stylish wrap-around tail lamps, a sporty roof spoiler, and dual-tone bumpers.
- Alloy wheels and roof rails further enhance its sporty appeal.
Mahindra XUV500 Interior and Comfort
- Inside, the XUV500 offers a premium cabin with high-quality upholstery and a driver-focused layout.
- The SUV is available in both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations, making it suitable for large families.
- Leather seats with cushioning provide excellent comfort, even for long drives.
- Automatic climate control ensures a pleasant cabin temperature in all weather conditions.
- The panoramic sunroof adds a premium touch, offering a bright and airy feel inside.
- Ample legroom and headroom make it comfortable for passengers in all rows.
Mahindra XUV500 Features and Technology
- The Mahindra XUV500 is loaded with modern features that make driving enjoyable.
- It comes with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- A premium sound system ensures crystal-clear audio for entertainment on the go.
- Cruise control makes highway driving effortless, while push-button start/stop adds convenience.
- Keyless entry, electrically adjustable driver seat, and reverse parking camera enhance practicality.
- Multiple USB charging points and wireless charging are available for passengers’ convenience.
- An advanced driver information system keeps you updated with important vehicle data.
Mahindra XUV500 Engine and Performance
- The XUV500 is powered by a 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine that is both powerful and fuel-efficient.
- It produces strong torque, making the SUV capable of handling city drives as well as highways with ease.
- Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
- The SUV offers smooth acceleration and excellent mid-range performance, making overtaking easy.
- For off-road lovers, the XUV500 also offers an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system in select variants.
- Suspension is tuned to handle Indian roads well, offering a balance between comfort and control.
Mahindra XUV500 Safety and Reliability
- Mahindra has equipped the XUV500 with several safety features to ensure passenger protection.
- Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability program (ESP), and hill hold control are standard in most variants.
- Higher variants get side and curtain airbags for additional safety.
- ISOFIX child seat mounts make it family-friendly for those traveling with kids.
- Strong body structure provides better crash protection, giving confidence on highways.
- Mahindra’s service network ensures reliability and ease of maintenance across India.
Mahindra XUV500 Practicality and Space
- The XUV500 is designed with practicality in mind, offering excellent storage solutions.
- Boot space is generous, and with the last row folded, it provides ample luggage capacity for long trips.
- Multiple bottle holders, cup holders, and door pockets add to everyday convenience.
- Split-folding seats make the cabin versatile for both passengers and cargo.
- Wide-opening doors and side steps make entry and exit comfortable, even for elderly passengers.
Mahindra XUV500 Variants and Pricing
- The XUV500 was available in multiple variants to suit different budgets and needs.
- Variants ranged from base trims with essential features to fully-loaded top models with luxury features.
- Pricing was always competitive, making it an attractive option in the mid-size SUV segment.
- Even today, in the used car market, the XUV500 is considered a great buy due to its features and reliability.
Pros of Mahindra XUV500
- Muscular and aggressive SUV design with road presence.
- Spacious and comfortable cabin for family use.
- Feature-loaded interiors with premium touches.
- Strong diesel engine with good highway performance.
- AWD option available for adventure enthusiasts.
- Affordable pricing compared to rivals in its category.
Cons of the Mahindra XUV500
- Interiors, though premium, feel a little outdated compared to newer rivals.
- Handling is not as sharp as some competitors in the same segment.
- Fuel economy is decent but not class-leading.
- Third-row seating is best suited for children or short trips.
- Limited availability now due to replacement by the XUV700.
Competition
- The Mahindra XUV500 used to compete with SUVs like Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Jeep Compass, and Hyundai Creta (top variants).
- While rivals offered more modern styling and updated tech in later years, the XUV500’s value-for-money positioning kept it relevant.
Final Verdict
- The Mahindra XUV500 has been one of the most successful SUVs in India, combining style, features, and performance in a balanced way.
- It became a popular choice among Indian families because of its practicality and spaciousness.
- Although it has now been replaced by the Mahindra XUV700, the XUV500 continues to hold a special place in the Indian SUV market.
- For buyers looking for a used SUV with strong road presence and reliability, the XUV500 is still a great option.