Mahindra XUV500 To Return As A Hyundai Creta-Rival

Codenamed the S301, the SUV was earlier expected to based on Ford’s B722 platform. However, since the JV was called off earlier this year, it remains to be seen which platform will underpin the next-gen XUV500. Mahindra might use the modified version of the XUV300’s underpinnings to base the S301 SUV. However, if Mahindra plans to do so, the carmaker will have to extensively redesign the Ssangyong Tivoli’s platform to make it lighter and more affordable. Although it is a tough task to do, the carmaker plans to use its learnings from the XUV700 to achieve the feat. Talking to publication the source said, “The W601 programme taught us the art of light-weighting and we are confident that the Tivoli platform, which is a great base to start with, can be optimised for the weight and cost." 

Under the hood, the new XUV500 is likely to get a modified version of XUV300’s 1.5-litre diesel engine that makes 116.6PS and 300Nm. The petrol engine on offer could be a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine that was expected to debut on the Marazzo petrol after being showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo.  However, the plans of launching the Marazzo petrol seem to be put on the back burner as the company focuses on new SUVs.

Expect Mahindra to launch the new XUV500 around 2024. When launched, it will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks, Renault Duster and upcoming cars like the Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. Prices are expected to range from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 16 lakh. 

Meanwhile, Mahindra is gearing to launch the XUV700 by the end of this year. It will be followed by the launch of the next-gen Scorpio sometime next year.