Mahindra XUV500: A Star Pupil

 The Mahindra XUV500 W10 sits silently in the background, but it'll score solid, good marks in a test.

There’s no denying the fact that the Toyota Fortuner is the undoubted king of South Africa’s SUV market. This Japanese SUV rakes in the sales on a monthly basis and is a constant in the ten top-selling passenger cars. Given that the Fortuner retails between R477 600 and R715 400, it must be commended for continuously counting amongst the best.

If the Fortuner can be proud of one thing, it should be for the fact that it paved the way for SUVs in its segment and size to be considered viable alternatives to cars and bakkies. And Mahindra with its XUV500 wants to join the conversation. At R444 999, the top-of-the-range W10 model is some R32 000 more affordable than the entry-level automatic Fortuner. Fair enough, the Mahindra does not have the same reputation as the Fortuner, but the XUV500 is also a seven-seater at Group 1 Mahindra wanting to make its voice heard.

Against the Fortuner, Ford Everest, and Isuzu mu-X the XUV500 disappears in the background, but only because buyers don’t consider it worthy of a second look. Am I saying it’s a perfect choice, then? Nope, not at all. But it’s in its alternativeness that the SUV proves itself.

Strong engine

The XUV500 W10 is powered by the same engine that does duty in the rest of the range. The turbocharged 2.2-litre unit delivers a respectable 103kW and 330Nm. It might not seem like a lot of power and is it overshadowed by the 2.4-litre Fortuner (110kW/400m) and Everest’s 2.2-litre (118kW/385Nm), but on the open road, it runs without fail. A six-speed automatic gearbox sends power to the front wheels only, but luckily you never have to push the pedal through the floor to get a reaction.

Part of the recipe is the fact that the torque is already available at 1 600rpm, which means that the SUV is hulled around without much hassle.

What you can expect from an SUV from this size is a steering feel that can become a bit light at times, but then you’d have to take into consideration that the XUV500 is a big vehicle and drivers don’t want to struggle with something that’s tardy to respond. The suspension, designed in collaboration with Lotus, absorbs uneven surfaces with ease and endows the XUV500 with a soft ride. The problem is that there’s a substantial amount of body roll when you tackle bends with some vigour and the SUV nosedives when you hit on the brakes hard.

However, it all does very little to deter the SUV and can you say, to a degree, that ride quality wasn’t affected too much. Concerning fuel consumption, Mahindra says that the XUV500 W10 will sip, on average, 7.4 L/100, which means that you should, theoretically, see a reach of just over 940km on a full tank of diesel.

Seven seats, you say?

With the economy pressing as much as it is, consumers are pressed to get the best value in return for every penny they spend. And although Mahindra XUV500 is an affordable SUV alternative to the more established contenders, it is in no way letting up on giving the best in terms of features, technologies, and practicality. Taking practicality into account, the XUV500 is fitted with seven seats; all covered in leather. What’s nice about it is that, unlike the Fortuner’s upright units, the seats fold flat into the boot of the SUV. This allows for a very useful luggage space; that becomes even more useful when the second row of seats are also flattened.

All occupants have a decent view of the road around them.

The interior is decked in both leather and plastic and is the latter the most prominent material used. The inside of the doors and the facia carry the most plastic, but they are mixed with soft-touch materials for that little bit of a luxury feel. The seats are covered in leather and can the front units be operated electrically. Which is nice.

The multimedia system is not the best on the market, but it has enough to offer in terms of accommodating your media devices and satellite navigation. Other features include a rearview camera with park distance control, automatic wipers, keyless access and –start, and a sunroof. All standard, by the way.

Summary

We are often solely focused on what we know that we do not want to look at alternatives. No one can argue against the Fortuner (and maybe even the Everest’s) strong overall value, but it will not hurt to get a greater idea of the market before committing to a purchase. The Mahindra XUV500 W10 is one such vehicle that’s somewhat in the background, watching the popular kids get all the attention. But in the silence, almost hidden in plain sight, sits this SUV; scoring solid marks in each of its tests.

Article sourced from: https://carchoice.co.za/

2020 Mahindra Pik-Up Specs

 The Mahindra Pik Up gets new styling and technology, and an addition to the lineup.

Indian carmaker Mahindra has announced pricing and specification for its 2020 Pik-Up ute lineup.

The Mahindra Pik Up range opens with the 4x2 S6+ single cab and the 4x4 S6+ single cab.

Karoo Pack can be optioned on the 4x4 S6+, which adds a steel bullbar, brush rails, a snorkel, tow bar, vinyl floor mats, canvas seat covers and a bash plate. 

Moving up to the dual-cab 4x4 S10. 

The new Mahindra Pik-Up gets a redesigned front grille, LED daytime running lights and a new fog light design for 2020.

Mahindra Pik-Up S6+ variants now get cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity and driver’s seat height adjustability as standard.

Mahindra Pik-Up S10+ variants get a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and Android Auto connectivity, satellite navigation and a reversing camera.

Dual cab S10+ models also get a 2.5-tonne braked towing capacity, rear-seat air conditioning and ISOFIX mounting points with top tether.

All variants make use of a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel four-cylinder engine outputting 103kW and 320Nm – only available with a six-speed manual transmission at Group 1 Mahindra.

The Mahindra Pik-Up comes with a five-year/100,000km limited warranty, five-year roadside assist. A four-year/55,000km capped price servicing option is also available.

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Article sourced from: https://mahindramotoringmagic.tumblr.com/post/635110528858128384/2020-mahindra-pik-up-specs-the-mahindra-pik-up

Mahindra SUVs To Be Updated

 Mahindra & Mahindra is ready to give a generation change to its 4 SUVs, namely, Thar, XUV500, Scorpio and Bolero. The new Mahindra Thar has been released internationally already. The new Mahindra Scorpio and XUV500 are slated to launch early next year, followed by the next-generation Bolero. Besides these four new models, we hope Mahindra South Africa will bring in a couple of electric cars (XUV300 EV and eKUV100) sometime next year.

As mentioned above, the new Thar was the first one to arrive in the international market. The off-road SUV will come in 7 variants spread across two trims (AX and LX).

Engine setup of the 2020 Mahindra Thar includes a new 2.0L mStallion turbo petrol and 2.2L diesel delivering power worth 150bhp with 320Nm and 130bhp with 320Nm respectively. For the first time, the Thar will be offered with an automatic gearbox that will be available with both petrol and diesel motors. A 6-speed manual gearbox will standard across the model lineup.

With the generation change, the 2021 Mahindra XUV500 and Scorpio will witness comprehensive changes inside and out. In fact, both models will also receive a new 2.0L mStallion turbo petrol engine with manual and automatic gearboxes.

While the XUV500 petrol will be good enough for 190bhp and 380Nm, the Scorpio petrol will deliver 160bhp with over 350Nm. Reports suggest that the new-generation XUV500 and Scorpio will be based on the modified version of the body-on-ladder frame (ZEN3 platform) that also underpins the upcoming new Thar.

Talking about the new-generation Mahindra Bolero, the SUV is likely to be based on an all-new platform sporting noticeable design changes. Its interior is likely to be more upmarket than the current generation. The new model will also meet the new safety and crash test norms.

Similar to the 2020 Mahindra Thar, the all-new Bolero might be offered with an updated 2.0L turbo diesel engine with a manual gearbox. Its suspension setup could also be updated in order to improve its comfort and drivability.  

Mahindra South Africa has not yet released information regarding if and/or when these updated Mahindra models will hit South African dealerships, like Group 1 Mahindra.

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Article sourced from: https://www.indiacarnews.com

Next-gen Mahindra XUV500 Interior Details

 

The new-generation Mahindra XUV500 is likely to get an entirely new interior layout and will use new plush material. The SUV will also be more feature-loaded than the existing model.


Mahindra is working on the new generation XUV500 for quite a while now. Though there has been no official word from the Indian SUV maker about the changes on the new model, we have gathered plenty of information, thanks to several images and spy shots that have surfaced on the interweb. Next-generation Mahindra XUV500 will look radically different from the current model which is a welcome development given that the first generation model was launched in 2011. Since then the company has introduced several facelifts to keep the model updated but it's about time the XUV500 comes sporting an all-new design.


Besides new exterior design, the new generation Mahindra XUV500 will also get a new interior layout as the existing one looks quite dull, especially in comparison to rivals like Tata Harrier, MG Hector, and the recently launched Hector Plus. So, the new XUV500 is likely to ditch the existing interior layout for a neatly laid out dashboard. It will get horizontal aircon vents, a bigger touchscreen infotainment system, flat-bottomed steering wheel, new upholstery and new design for the seats. We also expect Mahindra to make use of plush material like soft-touch panels inside the vehicle.

New-generation Mahindra XUV500 will also be more feature-loaded than the existing model. So, we expect it to get a bigger touchscreen system with more connectivity features, a TFT display for the instrument or at least a bigger multi-information display, ambient lighting, etc. The new XUV500 will make use of a new 2.0-litre diesel engine that will offer better performance than the currently available 2.2-litre mHawk155 engine. The SUV is also expected to be available with a new 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged petrol engine, which was showcased at Auto Expo 2020.


Compare the new XUV500 with a Mahindra XUV500 for sale and decide if the coming changes tickle your fancy more or if you’re happy to get a secondhand model.







Article source: https://www.timesnownews.com/auto/car-news/article/new-gen-mahindra-xuv500-interior-details-emerge/625938

Mahindra Is Set To Enter A New Growth Phase In 2020

 Mahindra South Africa is entering a new growth phase in 2020 that will see it launch new and refreshed versions of almost its entire product range at Group 1 Mahindra. It will also herald a new wave of activity at its assembly plant and its dealer network to support the model growth.

This phase kicks off shortly after Mahindra was recognised as South Africa’s fastest-growing brand for 20191. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers (Naamsa), Mahindra grew by 28.7% in 2019, while the overall market declined by 2.8% in the same period.

This performance builds on an equally impressive increase of 25.7% in 2018, which also experienced a period of general decline for the market. Naamsa statistics further show that the Mahindra Pik Up range and Mahindra KUV100 NXT were the fastest-growing products in their respective market segments in the past year.

The growth was no doubt supported by several accolades from the automotive industry and media. Last year, the National Automotive Dealer Association (NADA) recognised Mahindra’s efforts and growth by awarding it its first Gold Award, while the Kinsey Report on the affordability of service and repair parts singled out the KUV100 specifically and Mahindra in general for being one of the most affordable brands to service and repair.

Later in the year, the all-new XUV300 was chosen as a semi-finalist in the SA Car of the Year competition, and it also performed exceptionally well in several categories in the Fuel Economy Tour. During this competition, the KUV100 diesel won its category, while the turbocharged 1.2 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel XUV300 models ranked 2nd and 3rd respectively in their categories. Together with the Pik Up, these models helped Mahindra earn the title as the 3rd Most Fuel Efficient brand in the competition.

These accolades, along with several others, have proven that Mahindra is an exceptional value proposition for customers across the spectrum of SUV and bakkie models.

“Since launching our first products in South Africa in 2004, we have grown steadily, fuelled by constant investment, new products and after-sales support through a growing network of committed dealers and accolades from the media and industry bodies.

“While our growth has been organic and steady, it accelerated markedly after we opened our assembly facility in Durban in May 2018. Since then we have seen a dramatic rise in interest in Mahindra and its vehicles,” says Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa.

S11 Automatic launch – a world first

Mahindra South Africa today introduced its S11 Automatic Pik Up in 4×2 and 4×4 variants, making South Africa the first country in the world to offer the new six-speed automatic gearbox on the Pik Up range.

With its introduction, the S11 Automatic becomes the most luxurious new model in the Pik Up range, offering even more specifications than the S10, while starting at only R384 999 for the 4×2 AT model and R414 999 for the 4×4 AT version. Mahindra has also introduced a new S11 Karoo AT version in 4×2 and 4×4, which will add additional specifications, such as a lockable roller shutter and rubberising to the long list of S11 specifications.

The S11 Pik Up Automatic completes Mahindra’s range of pick-ups that now extend from the most basic Bolero workhorse and Pik Up Dropside to a lifestyle focused S10 and S11 Karoo Editions.

“With our new S11 Automatic, the line-up of bakkies at your local Mahindra dealer will cater to every need. In a way, our showroom is nothing less than a ‘World of Bakkies’ where you define your needs and we deliver.

“At the same time, our SUV range now consists of three body-on-frame and three monocoque SUV models. And with the recent upgrades to the KUV100 and XUV500, a new trim level in the XUV300, a more powerful 6 speed 103 kW Scorpio S11 SUV and upcoming upgrades to the TUV300, we have created a ‘World of SUVs’, with something for every SUV taste and budget,” says Rajesh.

New products abound

Aside from the Pik Up S11 Automatic, the first of the new models to reach dealers will be a value-busting version of the KUV100 #DARE and XUV300.

Mahindra launched the KUV100 NXT #DARE K2+ as a permanent addition to its range in November 2019. The model has a stand-out design with darkened alloys and #DARE decals, and it offers additional equipment as standard, including a smartphone-linked audio system.

“In November, we inaugurated our new Special Fitment Centre in Gauteng. The centre is home to 20 technical staff working on four dedicated fitment lines and allows us to create special edition models such as the #DARE in response to market demand,” says Rajesh.

The K2+ #DARE is the first product of this new Centre, with its first consignment sold out shortly after its introduction, thanks in part to its monthly repayment amount starting at R1 999. This has prompted Mahindra to add a #DARE in K6+ trim to the line-up, which will offer the same cosmetic additions and several other luxuries, including a touch-screen infotainment system and reverse camera among the standard equipment. The K6+ #DARE will also be sold with at a monthly repayment rate of R2 399, with free insurance for a year after sale.

Joining the #DARE will be a new version of the XUV300 in entry-level W4 trim. With this new model, Mahindra will reach a new, high-volume segment of the compact SUV market with an entry-price of R234 999 and an affordable monthly repayment amount of R2 899, offering perhaps the best value proposition in the compact SUV segment.

“The XUV300 W4 will by no means be Spartan and will offer the same 1.5 litre turbo diesel engine with 300 Nm of torque, which has become so popular in other XUV300 models,” says Rajesh.

Great Value, Great Service

With a vehicle parc approaching 60 000 units, Mahindra South Africa is partnering with its dealer network to introduce a comprehensive after-sales care programme, backed by its well-established parts distribution network and a significant investment by the company. This will help the brand to deliver a customer centric homogenous experience across its network.

Called #GreatValueGreatService, the service offering will include a number of commitments on the quality of work done and the deserving customer experience. It will also offer fully transparent communication and a better up-front view of expenses.

“The AA Kinsey Report has repeatedly identified Mahindra as one of the best value brands for servicing and repairing its vehicles. With our new #GreatValueGreatService promise, we will further enhance this by focusing not only on the cost of service but the overall service experience,” says Rajesh.

The #GreatValueGreatService promise will include a 90% same-day repair commitment and an in- and out-of-warranty affordability promise.

Mahindra has further developed a dedicated Mzanzi app that will facilitate bookings, give access to service pricing and allow direct dealer communication, to name but a few benefits. In step with digital trends, the Mzanzi app will meet the increasing need for effective digital communication. More information will be made available on this initiative shortly.

Deepening local roots

“When Mahindra opened its first assembly facility in Durban in 2018, we promised to expand our local investment and truly make South Africa a second home for the brand. In 2020, we will keep that promise with additional localisation efforts,” says Rajesh.

As part of its campaign to localise as many components of its locally assembled Pik Up range as possible, Mahindra hosted a team of engineers from Mahindra’s Head Office for a fact-finding mission in 2019. The engineers met with first and second-tier component suppliers in South Africa’s three main vehicle manufacturing hubs with the aim of deepening its local sourcing in the new year

“South Africa has world-class component manufacturers, and we hope to start sourcing more components – both cosmetic and technical – from here. While this may start with basic components, we trust it will evolve quickly to include more complex parts of the locally assembled Pik Up,” says Rajesh.

Article source: https://mahindrathemotoringalternative.weebly.com/blog/mahindra-is-set-to-enter-a-new-growth-phase-in-2020

2020 Mahindra Bolero Is Highly Effective

Mahindra, a well-known automaker, is updating its automobile lineup in accordance with the BS6 customary. Recently, the brand new facelift avatar of Mahindra's well-known utility automobile - the Mahindra Bolero was noticed throughout testing. 

Mahindra Bolero could be very well-liked as a utility automobile in each city and rural areas, whose new model can be launched by Mahindra with extra premium and BS6 compliant engine. There will be many adjustments within the design of the 2020 Mahindra Bolero which is able to make this automobile a lot better than the present mannequin. It will embrace a brand new design entrance grille, new bumpers, new headlights, taillights, indicators. Apart from this, Mahindra can even replace the brand new seats, new instrument cluster in its inside.

Mahindra launched the Bolero with some adjustments, during which its 2.5 litre diesel model was discontinued. By the best way, Mahindra will replace and launch the brand new Bolero at Group 1 Mahindra in accordance with the brand new emission requirements relevant from 1 April 2020.

The Mahindra Bolero previously had the choice of a 1.5-liter turbo diesel engine and a 2.5-liter turbo diesel engine. At the same time, its 1.5 liter diesel variant is available in the market, which generates a capability of 170bhp and torque of 195Nm. It features a 5 pace gearbox. According to the report, in 2020 Bolero, Mahindra can use its new 'mStallion' engine, which was launched on the just lately concluded 2020 Auto Expo.

After using the brand new BS6 customary engine, the efficiency and mileage of the Bolero can also be anticipated to extend. However, no official info has been shared about it. The present model typically gives a mileage of 16 km per litre.

Article source: https://sahiwal.tv/2020-mahindra-bolero-will-be-even-more-powerful-feature-list-revealed/

Next-gen Mahindra Thar Showcase

Contrary to previous speculations, Mahindra will not showcase the next-gen Thar at the 2020 Auto Expo but will reveal the SUV at a separate event a little after the Expo.

The next-gen Mahindra Thar has been in the making for quite some time now. Over time, we have reported you with several spy shots of the new Thar, revealing new details all along. It was widely anticipated that the next-gen Thar would make its global debut at the 2020 Auto Expo. However, now we have come to learn that the new Thar will not be showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. The company will reveal the next-gen SUV at a separate event a little after the Expo.

The upcoming SUV will take inspiration from the Jeep Wrangler and gets the seven slat grille upfront. It will also come with factory fitted hardtop and will be bigger in dimensions. It will carry the rugged muscular design and now gets fresh front and rear bumpers. There will be newly designed 17-inch wheels and wheel arches have also been so designed that customers can easily fit after market wheels, something that is very popular with the Thar. It will also get LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps for the first time in its lifetime. The higher trims are expected to get large, 18-inch alloy wheels and a long list of creature comforts.

The interiors of the next-gen Mahindra Thar has been completely redesigned and it gets a fresh new dashboard. The new Thar will be a lot more comfort-orientated and much less utilitarian than the model it’ll replace. There’s a touchscreen infotainment system which is expected to come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support and will also double as a display for the reverse camera.
Below the high-set infotainment system and circular AC vents which get subtle chrome outlines. The steering wheel is from the TUV300 and it gets steering-mounted audio and telephony controls as well. The SUV will get a manual HVAC system with a new stack of controls. Also, in terms of features, the new Thar will have dual front airbags, power-folding wing mirrors and a large multi-info display. As we had reported earlier, the new SUV will get front-facing seats for the second row.

The new Thar will use BS6 compliant 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine which will be more fuel-efficient and better in refinement than the on-going model. It will also feature an automatic start-stop system. It is expected to churn out 140 bhp and a peak torque of 300 Nm – an increase from the current 105 bhp and 248 Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual gearbox and availability of an automatic gearbox could be kept as an option. There are also talks of the Thar getting a petrol engine at some point. While the new Thar won’t be present at the Auto Expo 2020, Group 1 Mahindra will continue to show the current Thar in their dealerships.


Article from: https://notablymahindra.wordpress.com/2020/08/04/next-gen-mahindra-thar-showcase/

Mahindra’s new K6+ #DARE

The Mahindra KUV100 NXt is not all that unfamiliar to South Africans. The little city car does duty against the likes of the Renault Kwid and Datsun Go, and always looks to get one over its rivals thanks to its comprehensive package.

Following the success of the K2+ #DARE model, Mahindra announced in January 2020 that it will expand the #DARE range. Build at the automaker’s Special Fitment Centre in Gauteng, the #DARE range is created alongside models such as the S11 Pik Up Karoo AT.

Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, says: “The KUV100 NXT is one of our most popular model ranges, thanks to its combination of low fuel consumption, industry-leading safety and SUV styling.

“With the #DARE, we have injected extra style and specification, while keeping the price as affordable as possible. It is no wonder then that our first consignment of KUV100 K2+ #DARE models sold out so quickly.”

Two specifications
The #DARE has now become a permanent member of the KUV range at Group 1 Mahindra. The two models, the K2+ #DARE and now the K6+ version, are identifiable by their black detailing and #DARE decals. A black rook and darkened 15-inch alloy wheels also form part of the package.
Inside the cabin, branded carpets are standard, as well as air conditioning, all-round electric windows, auto locking doors, and a full-colour 7-inch entertainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Gupta concludes: “With the #DARE, we prove that you do not have to break the bank to have a stylish compact SUV. At less than R2 600 a month, with a year’s insurance included, you do not have to compromise on specifications or style.”
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Article source: https://notablymahindra.wordpress.com/2020/05/29/mahindras-new-k6-dare/

Why people love the Mahindra Scorpio

Whenever we hear the name of Mahindra, chances are that the image of Scorpio comes to the mind. That’s due to the image, the legendary Mahindra Scorpio has created. Today’s blog will be a tribute to India’s own muscular SUV that ruled almost two decades and will be still ruling the upcoming decades.

Bit of a History
Behind any successful vehicle or a product, there is a vision of a person. Mr Pawan Goenka the man who saw the vision of India’s own muscular SUV had a very clear idea of this SUV. Mr Pawan Goenka and his team members had a very tough job during that period which was about the budget. Their job was to develop Scorpio in a budget which was almost 20 percent of any International OEM product development. And after several years of strategy and development, the Mahindra Scorpio finally took the shape and gets launched in the year 2002.

The SUV
Now it’s nearing towards the end of the second decade and it seems that the SUV has set itself as an identity of Mahindra. This SUV has a tremendous amount of road presence even today it slams many of the so-called SUVs. The boxy design and long bonnet design really enhances the muscularity of the SUV. But wait, the SUV is not called as an SUV till it gets ladder-frame chassis and 4×4 drive mode, and Mahindra Scorpio offers the both (4X4 optional).

Power
Along with the design and chassis, an SUV should have enough grunt. The current BS6 Mahindra Scorpio price gets you a 2.2-litre diesel engine that produces nearly 140bhp max power and 320Nm peak torque. That’s still impressive considering the rivals. Mahindra will be launching its next-generation Scorpio in 2021 that will get a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that is capable of producing 190 bhp max power and 380 Nm of peak torque, that sound’s impressive isn’t it.

Mahindra Scorpio Features
Feature-wise the SUV isn’t lagging behind the segment. The current model comes with power steering, power windows, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, air-quality control, remote fuel lid opener, cruise control, a navigation system, keyless entry, voice control, lane change indicator, and many more. Also, Group 1 Mahindra offers the only 4×4 SUV with a 7-seat arrangement in the price band.

With all these features, offroad ability and road presence, we don’t think there any vehicle that offers this level of the package. Mahindra Scorpio is really an all-rounder SUV and still offers a very good value for money. That’s the reason for Mahindra Scorpio’s success and to have a run across generations. For reference, the current Mahindra Scorpio is its third generation and upcoming will be the fourth! We don’t think any other Indian vehicle has managed to the fourth generation.

Pricing
The current pricing for the BS6 version starts at Rs 13.8 lakhs (ex-showroom) and goes up to Rs 16.9 lakhs (ex-showroom) for the top 4×4 variant. The most closer competitor the Tata Safari has been discontinued so technically there’s no competitor for now. But if we considered the price tag then there are many mid-size SUVs that include Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.



Article source: https://motoroctane.com/news/201112-mahindra-scorpio-run-across-generations

Mahindra’s XUV500 - A budget-friendly SUV loaded with tech

Mahindra SUVs have always had a certain edge at Group 1 Mahindra, and on the roads as well with their quirky design and mouth-watering price points.

They introduced the XUV500 all the way back in 2011 and then made minor tweaks in 2015. After three years, it was back with a major facelift for 2018. The 2019 plush XUV500 wasn’t just redesigned from the outside, but it underwent a little inner treatment so that it looks and feels good on the inside too. With the heat rising in the cities, car competitors like Hyundai’s Creta, Tata’s Hexon and Jeep’s Compass have brought their A-game to fit right in the SUV market. Mahindra’s came reloaded with new ammo and didn’t consider itself as a newbie in this ballpark, so looks like they had their foot on the gas and head on the wheel to show them who's boss.

So, what did the 2019 XUV500 have in store? Here are 5 things you need to know:

1) NOT A BORING LOOKING SUV 

Mahindra’s XUV500 is more like an SUV of its own, it's all in the name. That being said, the XUV500 brings about many differences which make this SUV look a little more sophisticated and modern at the same time. The major difference is the front grille with chrome inserts making the car look grumpy and shiny from the front. The LED DRL lamps at the front and at the tail makes it look mature and contemporary.

Another head turner are those 18” diamond alloy wheels making the XUV look shiny and bold. Mahindra’s being sporty as always by adding a spoiler at the rear, twin exhausts for the looks and going a little overboard with the chrome lining all over the car. It’s all about the look.

2) BRING ON THOSE ROAD TRIPS

 

You usually buy an SUV for two reasons, either for making those long distance road trips helping you ease out the driving strain and ensuring better safety, or because you just want to have a better view from the top to see how the traffic is doing up front. You may disagree, but either way, the XUV500 boasted better performance, thanks to the mHawk 2.2L turbocharged engine which churns out a might 155hp and 360Nm of torque with a six-speed transmission. It’s got five diesel variants (W5,W7,W8,W9 and W11), an one petrol variant for the gasoline lovers. There’s even an option to get yourself an All-Wheel-Drive variant for those bumpy expeditions on rough terrains.

3) IT WILL PAMPER YOU WITH COMFORT

Some of us actually do care how the car looks from the inside, but there’s a ton of us, especially us geeks, who only care what the car can do on the inside. The 2019 XUV500 is loaded with a lot tech and comfort making the driver and the passenger feel well connected and pampered. It comes with premium tan leather seats and a leather dashboard with a piano black centre console which adds to the elegance and neatness of the cabin. If you happen to look on the top, which you might, it’s got an electric sunroof with a anti-pinch, but you’ll happen to find that in a few models only. It's also netted with safety options with six airbags around the car (if deployed emergency is automatically called), Hill descent and Hill Hold control and ABS.

4) IT’S FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH TECH AND COOLNESS

The XUV500 won’t ever let you feel disconnected from the world, thanks to its smartwatch connectivity with each car, which makes Mahindra the first to feature this in the Indian auto industry. Users had the option to either choose from an Apple Watch or Android Wear for Android Auto. You can control the temp, switch radio stations or music, check the tyres, and much, much more.

The control centre on the dashboard is equipped with Android Auto so you don't have to pull out your phone for every call, message or directions. There is pre-installed apps to feed your entertainment hunger.

Oh, and talking about Music, the 18cm infotainment system on the dashboard is planted with Arkamys Sound System to please your ears and make driving happier. It also lets drivers check car vitals, stats, Ecosense technology for fuel consumptions and CO2 emissions, tire-tronics, reverse parking with dynamic assist and all kinds of smartness, making the driver and the car ready for the future.

5) IT GIVES YOU ALL THIS FOR A PRETTY PRICE

Even though roads are filled with traffic and cut-throat competition, brands have not yet stopped manufacturing because the buyers still have their pockets full of cash and demands full of needs.

Nevertheless, check out the 2019 Mahindra XUV500 price, along with the new Mahindra XUV500 price at the digital Mahindra showroom.





Article from https://www.stuff.tv/in/features/5-things-you-need-know-about-mahindras-new-xuv-500-facelift

KUV100, XUV500, XUV300 - Here's what Mahindra has on offer for SA

Mahindra has just launched its new XUV300 compact SUV in India and it will reach SA shores in the next couple of months. However, the brand is soaring in terms of local sales.

Naamsa reports that the Indian automaker is gaining popularity in South Africa; In December Mahindra sold 260 passenger cars and 180 light commercial vehicles. In January, the automaker sold 294 cars and 350 LCVs.


In the past six months, Mahindra has launched several new models, and the Indian brand also began rolling out new Mahindra SUVs and vehicles to Group 1 Mahindra from its local factory in Durban.

In May 2018, the company opened its first assembly facility in South Africa and has since started shipping locally assembled Pik Up models to dealers throughout the country.

During October the automaker launched its new KUV100 NXT and also its flagship Mahindra XUV500 for sale. The automaker also celebrated a year-on-year sales growth of 30%.

In November, Mahindra launched a new S6 variant known as the limited "Karoo" Edition of its popular Pik Up Double Cab in celebration of its growing success.

In 2019, the new XUV300 was launched in India and the automaker reckons it should arrive locally by April.

Ahead of the launch of its XUV300 the automaker conducted a brand re-positioning and marketing campaign with the launch of the Mahindra S10 Karoo Edition.

Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, says: "The Mahindra Pik Up S10 Karoo Edition is an encore to the special S6 Karoo Edition, which was launched in December last year and which sold out very quickly. With the higher S10 specification level, this model is sure to sell out as fast."

Experience the power of a Mahindra yourself - test drive the KUV100, XUV300, XUV500 and the S10 Karoo - you know you want to!




Article source: https://notablymahindra.wordpress.com/2020/03/02/kuv100-xuv500-xuv300-heres-what-mahindra-has-on-offer-for-sa/

Mahindra TUV300: Old Vs New

The new Mahindra TUV300 Facelift comes with a host of cosmetic updates both on the outside and inside the cabin. Read on to know how different the 2019 TUV300 is from the outgoing model.

The new Mahindra TUV300 had a long time coming. It was spotted several times last year and a proper, much-required facelift has come after four years. Hopefully, it should help the model to make some space amidst other subcompact SUVs which are more urban. However, Group 1 Mahindra has the XUV300 for its urban buyers and the TUV300 was always designed for those who wanted old school SUVs. So let's find out how different the new TUV300 is from its predecessor.

Exterior

The facelifted Mahindra TUV300 looks more aggressive and robust housing new grille and all-around cladding.


Mahindra has not taken a chance with the design and proportions of the TUV300. Its squared, boxy proportions and a fairly tall stance are actually some of the things which appeal to the SUV buyers. The new TUV300, however, gets new styling elements and has a slight resemblance of the TUV300 Armour. Upfront, it gets a new piano-black grille with black chrome inserts and the same finish is carried over to the headlamps garnish. Design of the headlamp assembly has been rejigged as well to fit the new daytime running lights (DRLs) and the tail lamps now have a clear-lens finish. There is a different X-Shaped spare wheel cover finished in metallic grey. It also gets plastic claddings all around which add a bit of aggression to its looks. There is also a faux-silver skid plate upfront.

Interior

The dashboard of the 2019 Mahindra TUV300 has been tweaked and it gets new silver highlights.


The cabin of the new TUV300 has received subtle updates. The dashboard of the previous car was designed by Pininfarina and the Italian design house has tweaked it again. The top section of the dashboard looks curvaceous and there are silver highlights around the air-con vents and infotainment unit. Speaking of the infotainment system, it's a new 7.0-inch touchscreen unit which features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new TUV300 is also equipped with static bending headlamps, powered wing mirrors, reverse parking cameras, antilock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and dual airbags among others.

Engine

Mechanically, the 2019 Mahindra TUV300 remains identical to its predecessor. It is powered by the same 1.5-litre, three-cylinder mHawk100 diesel engine which puts out 100 bhp at 3750 rpm and 240 Nm of peak torque which kicks in at 1500 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox as standard while an AMT is optional.



Article source: https://auto.ndtv.com/news/mahindra-tuv300-old-vs-new-2035265

2018 Mahindra XUV500 Test Drive Review

Does the added features and luxury translate to the ‘premiumness’ in the Mahindra XUV500 for sale? We find out in our Test Drive Review.

Many people have a particular affinity towards big and bulky muscle SUVs, especially in the rural region. While Mahindra has long served such buyers looking for a budget 7-seater SUV with the successful Scorpio, the increasing spending capacity of buyers made Mahindra launch a more premium SUV, slotted above the Scorpio – the XUV500. Needless to say, the decision was rational enough and the XUV500 became an instant hit in the domestic market, making it the only premium SUV by an Indian manufacturer, at Group 1 Mahindra.

But there were many things missing from the XUV500 and one may argue if it was truly a premium SUV? To answer all these doubts, Mahindra has now updated the XUV500 and added more 'premiumness.' But does it still get what we call the premium value? Here‘s our test drive review of the 2018 Mahindra XUV500.

Design
The Mahindra XUV500 was always designed to look like a premium SUV, with a more balanced approach. The idea behind the XUV500 was to make it look like a proper SUV, yet not that aggressive. The face lift of the Mahindra XUV500 carries the same design language but in a more refined manner. There’s a new front grille, with a lot of chrome throughout the grille. The LED DRL's, headlamps and teardrop fog lamps, all have been re-profiled. The top-spec model gets a dual-tone skid plate and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The rear has also been redesigned with a new tailgate and triangular tail lamps.

Cabin
However, it is the cabin of the new XUV500 that has received a much-needed update, not in design, but in styling. The XUV500 now comes with dual-tone interiors and has tan-coloured leather seats that add to the premium value of the SUV. The centre console now gets a piano black treatment, with chrome inserts and there’s the soft-touch trim on the dashboard and the doors.

The rest of the cabin looks the same with the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a nice user interface and animation. The steering wheel with mounted controls, instrument console and AC controls are all the same. XUV500 is a feature-rich car and gets an electronic driver seat, sunroof, 6 airbags, AB with EBD and more. We found the placement of keyhole and hand brake lever odd.

The front seats offer a nice and wide view of the road ahead, and are comfortable for a long journey, giving enough cushion to your body. The middle row is wide enough to seat 3 adults with ease, while in the third row, only 2 adults can adjust. Practicality wise, there are enough cubbyholes to keep your stuff around. Also, the 3rd-row seats can be flat-folded to increase the boot space.

Engine
Coming to the engine, the XUV500 face lift is available in the 2.2-litre diesel and a 2.2-litre petrol option and there are both a manual and an automatic gearbox on offer. We test drove the manual diesel unit that now generates 153 bhp instead of earlier produced 140 bhp. The torque is rated at 360 Nm, and is peppy enough for a fun-filled drive. The 6-speed manual gearbox stutters while starting, but has long gear ratios, meaning you don’t need to downshift while overtaking in traffic.
There’s a bit of body roll, which is obvious considering the height of the XUV500. The steering is nimble to operate but has a bit of under steer, which can be a bit of trouble while taking a turn from a standstill. The ride quality is not a trademark of most of the Mahindra cars, but the plush seats make up for the otherwise average suspension.

Verdict  
Mahindra XUV500 successfully bridges the gap between a compact SUV and a premium 7-seater SUV priced above Rs 20 Lakh. Although there are few negatives like the plastic quality and the driving dynamics, however, these can be ignored by a buyer who just needs an affordable SUV with all the features. With this facelift, Mahindra has now increased the desirability quotient of the XUV500. You get a good looking SUV with a premium cabin, 7-seats and a sunroof, all under Rs 20 Lakh.


Article source: https://notablymahindra.wordpress.com/2020/01/08/2018-mahindra-xuv500-test-drive-review/