Mahindra has launched its new XUV500 W8 seven-seat SUV in Australia in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive form, promising “exhilarating performance” with sporty suspension offering “a lot of room for fun”.
Initially launched in Australia back in 2012, the XUV500 is the company’s largest SUV passenger vehicle available Down Under. The new model brings a range of styling updates, new on-board technologies, and new paint and trim options.
Just two variants are available, including the W8 fitted with a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive, and the W8 six-speed manual equipped with four-wheel drive. There is no auto option. Both come with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel producing 103kW and 330Nm.
Acceleration from 0-100km/h hasn’t been mentioned, however, 0-60km/h comes up in a rather dismal 5.4 seconds – 0.4 seconds slower than the Toyota Fortuner auto. Fuel economy on the combined cycle test is rated at 6.7L/100km.
Some of the highlight standard features include a new 7.0-inch touch-screen interface with GPS navigation, Bluetooth, and a rear-view camera, along with voice command, tyre pressure monitoring, auto wipers and headlights, and cruise control.
With the 2016 model, buyers get freshly-designed 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome window trimmings, unique fog lights, a distinctive new grille, a “muscular” bonnet and front bumper bar, and “paw-style” door handles.
The new model is on sale now and available from any of Mahindra’s 35 dealerships around the country. Prices are as follows:
2016 Mahindra XUV500 W8 2WD – $29,900 drive-away
2016 Mahindra XUV500 W8 4WD – $32,900 drive-away
