Next-Gen Mahindra XUV500 Launch In 2024, Will Rival Hyundai Creta
The SUV will be smaller in size than its predecessor and will sit below the XUV700.
The next-gen Mahindra XUV500 will be smaller in size than its predecessor on sale at present and will be a direct rival to the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the like.
When Mahindra announced that it will be giving its new 7-seat SUV the XUV700 moniker, the future of the XUV500, which changed the firm’s fortunes in the last decade, was called into question.
Mahindra did respond by stating that the XUV500 moniker will be used once again in the near future. It was widely speculated that the popular name would be used for a 5-seat SUV which will sit below the XUV700.
As it happens, that will be the case as the next-gen Mahindra XUV500, code-named S301, will measure about 4300 mm and sit smack in-between the XUV300 and the soon-to-be launched XUV700.
The styling of the car should carry forward the brand’s latest design language which will be seen on the upcoming 7-seat SUV.
It will be based on a version of the SsangYong Tivoli’s platform and not Ford’s B772 architecture since the joint venture between Mahindra and Ford was called off earlier this year.
Mahindra plans to reduce weight and optimise cost by using the Tivoli’s platform. However, this re-engineering exercise would mean the XUV500 moniker will not make a comeback until 2024. Current gen XUV500 is likely to be discontinued once the XUV700 goes on sale this year.
Expected to cost between Rs. 10 lakhs and Rs. 17 lakhs (ex-showroom), the next-gen Mahindra XUV500 is likely to be offered with 1.5-litre turbo petrol (making around 160 HP) and 1.5-litre diesel engine options.
Source – AutocarIndia.com
