Mahindra is carrying out extensive testing of the
2018 Mahindra XUV500 on public roads ahead of its launch next year. A new spy
shot published by Motoroids has revealed the facelifted Mahindra XUV500’s
headlamp.
The 2018 Mahindra XUV500 features new double barrel
headlamps without the S-shaped LED DRL strip. Previously spotted test mules had
the same headlamps with the S-shaped LED DRL strip as the current car, however.
A closer inspection reveals a lower grille with a new design, with three
horizontal slats. A new radiator grille is also expected on the facelifted
model.
Also, the Mahindra XUV500
will receive performance upgrades. The current model’s 2.2-litre mHawk diesel
engine produces 138 hp and 330 Nm of torque. Mahindra will retune
this engine to develop 170 hp and around 400 Nm of torque. The 6-speed manual
and 6-speed automatic transmission choices will remain unchanged.
A report last month said that the 2018 Mahindra
XUV500’s launch will take place in early 2018. Mahindra could use the Auto Expo
2018 to unveil the new model in presence of a global audience in February next
year.