Mahindra XUV500 W9

The Mahindra XUV500 W9 is the top variant of the XUV500 lineup, offering a robust 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that churns out 155 bhp and 360 Nm of torque. It comes with both manual and automatic transmission options, with the automatic being particularly suited for city driving. The vehicle features a spacious and airy cabin with plush tan leather upholstery, an electric sunroof, and rear AC vents. It also includes advanced features like automatic climate control, cruise control, and the Mahindra Blue Sense App for remote vehicle control. However, the cabin materials and build quality are areas of concern, feeling somewhat outdated for a vehicle in this price segment. The XUV500 W9 also boasts safety features like hill hold control, traction control, and a rear camera with guidance. Despite its flaws, it remains a powerful and feature-rich SUV that could appeal to those looking for a strong diesel engine and a commanding driving position.

The Mahindra XUV500 W9 is a mixed bag when it comes to overall satisfaction. On the positive side, it offers a powerful 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that produces 155 bhp and 360 Nm of torque, making it competent in both city traffic and open road driving. The automatic transmission, although not the quickest, is seamless and well-tuned for everyday driving. However, several drawbacks mar the experience. The suspension is not up to par, making the ride uncomfortable over potholes and bumps. The gear shift, particularly the first gear, can be problematic, and body vibrations and noise issues are prevalent. Additionally, the quality of materials inside the cabin feels outdated and not commensurate with the vehicles price. The automatic climate control and infotainment system also have their share of quirks. While it has its strengths, these significant flaws make it a less desirable choice compared to its competitors.

The Mahindra XUV500 has been discontinued by Mahindra & Mahindra, with the last models being sold in various variants, including the W9 AT. This move comes as the company prepares to launch new models, such as the XUV700. The XUV500 W9 AT was priced at around Rs. 15.45 lakh in Delhi. I believe this discontinuation marks the end of an era for a vehicle that was once a strong contender in the Indian SUV market.

Mahindra had improved the performance of the XUV500 by tweaking the engine, increasing the power to 155PS and torque to 360 Nm in later models. This enhancement made the vehicle more competitive against rivals like the Tata Hexa. The gearbox and clutch mechanism, however, remained largely the same, which some users found a bit cumbersome in stop-and-go traffic. I believe these improvements were a step in the right direction but could have been further refined.

The Mahindra XUV500 W9 AT boasted several premium features, including leather upholstery, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a rear camera with dynamic assist. The vehicle also had drive modes and a cooled glovebox, adding to its comfort and convenience. I think these features helped in making the XUV500 feel more luxurious and practical.

The Mahindra XUV500 W9 AT featured a 2.2 litre mHawk 140 diesel engine, producing 140 horsepower and 330 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It also came with advanced features like an electric sunroof, 7” touchscreen infotainment system, and ABS with EBD. I think these features made it a compelling choice for those looking for a blend of power and comfort.

Despite its discontinuation, the Mahindra XUV500 still has a loyal customer base, with many appreciating its service and warranty support. Mahindras service centers are known for their ability to fix issues promptly, which has been a positive point for owners. I believe this customer satisfaction will be crucial for Mahindras future models.

The Mahindra XUV500 W9 is priced at around Rs. 17.33 lakh ex-showroom in India. When you factor in the on-road costs, including taxes, registration, and insurance, the price can easily cross Rs. 20 lakh. While this places the XUV500 W9 in a competitive segment, the value for money is questionable given the various issues with the vehicle. For a car in this price range, one expects better build quality, smoother gear shifts, and more refined features, which the XUV500 W9 falls short of. However, if you are looking for a powerful diesel SUV with a lot of features, the XUV500 W9 might still be worth considering, but its essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

The Mahindra XUV500 W9 offers a mileage of around 15.1 kmpl, which is decent for a diesel SUV of its size and power output. However, real-world mileage can vary based on driving conditions and habits. If you are concerned about running costs, this mileage is relatively acceptable, especially considering the vehicles performance capabilities. Its a good balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it a viable option for those who need both.