Mahindra has confirmed that the XUV500 will receive
a facelift before the end of 2017. IAB’s automotive illustrator Shoeb Kalania
has done a render of the Mahindra XUV500 facelift depicting the changes the
model might entail.
The render shows the car with a new toothed grille
similar to the Mahindra Imperio. This grille design looks set to become a
signature Mahindra styling trait as the upcoming U321 MPV and KUV100 facelift
also have something similar. The headlamps, though alike in profile, get new
detailing with a sharper L-shape LED DRL strip and projector headlamps. The
design of front bumper is cleaner and gets trapezoidal pockets. It also houses
rectangular fog lamp units with air intakes located right below. New multi-spoke
dual tone alloy wheels round up the changes made to the exterior.
Moving inside, changes are likely to be restricted
to the shade of upholstery and the colour scheme for the dashboard. However,
since changes made to the cabin were minimal when the updated 2015 model
launched, one cannot rule out a comprehensive makeover this time around. Areas
that need attention are the instrument cluster and the steering wheel. The
7-inch touchscreen AVN that was introduced in April with EcoSense, Android Auto
and Connected Apps will get retained.
The 2.2 L mHawk diesel will continue powering the
XUV500. However, it will get remapped to churn out more power and torque to the
tune of 170 hp and 350-360 Nm respectively.
Mahindra is expected to launch the XUV500 facelift
in the last quarter of 2017. A significant hike in price is unlikely, and the
SUV could come in at a starting price of INR 12.20 Lakhs (ex-showroom).