Next-gen XUV 500 and Scorpio coming in Q2: Mahindra Auto CEO

Mahindra and Mahindra’s Thar is doing quite a good job for the sales chart. And now M&M will be capitalizing on this momentum to launch the new-gen XUV-500 & Scorpio. The test mules of the two SUVs have been the topic of conversation between motor-heads, and why shouldn’t they be?

Earlier planned to be launched by early 2020, the vehicles are almost over a year late, adding to the curiosity of the four-wheel-enthusiasts. But the guessing game’s over. Veejay Nakra, Mahindra Auto CEO has spilled the beans about the launch timeline of both these SUVs during an interview with Powerdrift.

Talking to PD, Mr. Nakra has confirmed that the XUV 500 will hit the roads during the monsoon between June to September 2021. It’ll be followed by the next gen Scorpio. While for Scorpio’s launch, Mahindra CEO didn’t give an exact time frame but it can be expected around the festive season, between Dussehra and Diwali. There’s an global shortage of semiconductors going on, though, so we still have our fingers crossed.

The upcoming alteration of the Mahindra XUV500 will be based on the new front-wheel-drive monocoque platform. It is supposed to come equipped with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which will provide safety features like adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, front collision warning, lane departure warning and park assist, etc. Adding to it’s safety and security quotient will be multiple airbags, front and rear parking sensors, ESP, 360 degree camera and a tyre pressure monitor.

In terms of features, the SUV will be offered in a 6 as well as 7 seater options. The 6 seat model will get the captain seats while on the later it’ll be a bench seat. It will also receive a large touchscreen infotainment system with a digital instrument console, connected car tech, smartphone connectivity, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, keyless entry with push-button start/stop, etc. Though recent spy shots reveled that the mid variant will  feature a smaller touchscreen infotainment system with analogue instrument cluster.

Coming to the powertrain, the next gen Mahindra XUV500 will be offered in two engine options. These are likely going to be the 2.0 liter (190hp) mStallion turbo petrol engine and a 2.2 liter (180hp) mHawk diesel engine. We’re expecting the Mahindra’s 6 speed manual and 6 speed torque converter automatic transmissions to be paired with the motors. While right now no one in the segment is giving a AWD but we expect the XUV500 to come with both 2WD and AWD to get an edge over the competition.

The current XUV500 models aren’t doing any great sales thanks to the Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus. Launch of new gen XUV500 is expected to bring back lost sales for Mahindra. On the outside, the 2021 XUV500 will retain its Cheetah inspired facade but will feature a new bonnet design, revised headlights, LED tail lamps and a new front grille. We can also expect it to come with fresh scheme of body paints.