Mahindra XUV500 Discontinued In India, XUV700 Now Takes Its Position

• The XUV500 was launched in India in 2011.
• It was the first Mahindra model to be built on a monocoque platform and get a front-wheel drive.
• Was provided with 2.2-litre petrol and diesel engines.
• Features included a sunroof, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and six airbags.

After a long and successful stint, Mahindra has axed the XUV500 in India. The XUV700, the spiritual successor to the XUV500, will now take its place until the SUV comes back as a Hyundai Creta rival in the future.

The XUV500 had a successful outing since its introduction in 2011. In fact, the response was such that Mahindra initially had to halt bookings for a while and rely on a lottery system for deliveries. Along the way, the SUV had also gotten two updates. 

The XUV500 was the first Mahindra car to be built on a new monocoque architecture (instead of the traditional body-on-frame platform) and get a front-wheel drive. 

It was offered with a 155PS 2.2-litre diesel and a 141PS 2.2-litre petrol engine, each paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic. However, only the diesel had an optional 6-speed manual and an AWD. 

Features included a a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a single-pane sunroof, powered driver’s seat, a sunroof, and cruise control. Taking care of passenger safety were six airbags, electronic stability programme, and rear parking sensors.

At the time of discontinuation, the XUV500 was priced between Rs 15.56 lakh and Rs 20.07 lakh (ex-showroom). It faced competition from similarly priced 5-seater models like the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Kia Seltos, and Jeep Compass.