Mahindra launches XUV500 Automatic at Rs 15.36 lakh

Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the latest variant of its flagship – an XUV500 automatic starting at Rs 15.36 lakh (ex-showroom Navi Mumbai, ex-Octroi) for the W8 front-wheel-drive model, which will be available across Mahindra Dealerships December 5, 2015 onwards.

Available in three trim levels — W8 FWD, W10 FWD and W10 AWD — the automatic transmission used in the SUV is different from the one used in the Scorpio Automatic. While the XUV500 automatic uses an all-new six-speed torque converter sourced from Aisin Seiki, Japan, the auto gearbox unit in the Scorpio is from Drivetrain Systems International (DSI), Australia.

The second generation automatic transmission, developed by Aisin Seiki of Japan, is also used in the Ssangyong Tivoli SUV. M&M has invested Rs 58 crore in developing the new transmission which will be used in future Mahindra products as well. The ARAI-claimed mileage for the XUV500 automatic is 13.85kpl.

Speaking at the launch of the XUV500 all new Automatic variant Pravin Shah, President & Chief Executive (Automotive), M&M Ltd. said, "The XUV500 broke new ground for Mahindra when it was first launched in 2011 and with the launch of the New Age XUV500 earlier this year we have emerged as a strong player in the premium SUV segment. At Mahindra, it is our constant endeavour to offer advanced and accessible technologies to our customers. The XUV500 already has many technology firsts to its credit and now we have further pushed the boundaries with the introduction of the XUV500 Automatic. Being a listening organization, we constantly incorporate consumer insights and feedback and I am sure that this variant will be an instant hit with our customers.”

Like the manual model, the XUV500 Automatic is powered by the same 2.2-litre four-cylinder mHawk diesel engine producing 138bhp. It is available with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive is offered as an option.

The XUV500 will rival the recently launched Hyundai Creta which also comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox with 2WD.