• Published On: 19 April 2018
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Not only does the new XUV get cosmetic changes, it also gets a bump in power.

When launched in 2011, the XUV500 from Mahindra was a turning point. The SUV offered good value and at the time was an SUV priced as much as sedans. The XUV has been around for seven years and in that time has received quite a few updates. The Indian car maker has recently launched a new facelift model of this SUV.

On the outside

The design of the car on the outside has become more premium. But, we found it very similar to the model that launched in 2015. The headlights on the car continue to use projectors for low beam, but the cluster is a bit different. IN addition to that, the LED DRLs on the car look like it was an accessory. The grille on the car is redesigned and has gloss bits. The chrome housing of the fog light has been redesigned but the remaining portion remains the same. When looked at from the side, one will notice the refreshed alloy wheel design. Other small changes on the side are the chrome pieces on the doors and roof rails. Coming to the rear of the car, you will notice the new rear with reworked taillights and a roof spoiler.

On the inside

The interior on the W11 model is all-black aside the tan coloured seats. The car features silver and gloss black bits on the centre console. Other changes include softer materials on the door panels with the dashboard getting leather-like material. However, the execution of stitching on the seats does look a bit untidy, especially when you consider this car’s price. Not only that, but the seats also feel uncomfortable to sit on for a long period of time.

The XUV500 is quite feature-rich and comes with a sunroof, automatic headlight and auto wipers. The SUV also comes with a touchscreen unit that is equipped Android Auto. Other features include safety equipment like six airbags and ESP. The music system on the car has been optimised by Arkamys.

How does it drive?

The big SUV from Mahindra was never known to be underwhelming in terms of performance. However, this new model gets an additional 15hp and 30Nm, taking the total to 155hp and 360Nm. The turbocharger the car uses is now electronic which makes the XUV slightly more responsive at lower revs. What has not changed is the notchy six-speed transmission. Interestingly, there is also a four-wheel drive option on sale, which can be had with a six-speed automatic box. The power bump though, has resulted in a small drop in fuel efficiency.

The nice bit however, is that the power delivery is a lot smoother. The car doesn’t move around and the steering doesn’t wobble under heavy acceleration. We drove the car at the manufacturer’s test circuit which is why we couldn’t really experience the difference in ride and handling. Mahindra said they haven’t made any changes in that area which is why it is set to remain the same.

Should I buy one?

The facelift has given the XUV500 a fresher feel. Along with this, the car does also feel considerably more luxurious thanks to the soft materials used on the inside.

Even after this, the XUV may not compare with the Creta’s level of sophistication. However, if you considering the fact that it can seat seven, it does appeal.