Base-spec Mahindra XUV500 W5 Bookings On Hold Due To Supply Issues

• Mahindra XUV500 W5 temporarily unavailable due to supply constraints.
• Mahindra is facing supply issues with this variant’s audio system.
• The XUV500 is currently offered in three variants: W7, W9 and W11 (O).
• It’s powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine with manual and automatic transmissions.
• New XUV500 launch, expected in H1 2021, could be delayed due to supply chain issues.

Mahindra has temporarily discontinued the XUV500’s base-spec W5 variant due to supply chain issues with its audio system. Bookings are currently open for the midsize SUV’s W7, W9 and W11 Optional variants. This means the W7 variant, priced at Rs 15.13 lakh (ex-showroom), is currently the new base variant. It commands a premium of Rs 1.30 lakh over the W5, priced at Rs 13.83 lakh. 

While bookings are on hold, Mahindra will fulfil all orders for the XUV500 W5 confirmed until February 2021. It came with a 6-inch monochrome (non-touchscreen) infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. This isn’t the first time Mahindra is facing supply issues. The new-gen Thar is being delivered to showrooms without an infotainment system due to the unavailability of semiconductors. 

The new base XUV500 W7 comes with essentials such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, climate control, cruise control, projector headlamps, keyless entry with push-button start, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. The top W11 (O) model further features Apple CarPlay, a sunroof, side and curtain airbags, a rear parking camera, a tyre pressure monitor, and hill descent control. 

The XUV500 comes with a 2.2-litre diesel engine that develops 155PS of power and 360Nm of torque. Power is channelled to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission or a torque converter automatic. All three variants -- W7, W9, and W11 (O) -- can be had with either a manual or an automatic. 

Supply constraints could affect the market debut of the 2021 XUV500, which is currently under testing. Expected to launch in the first half of 2021, the new XUV500 is larger, more technologically advanced, and possibly more powerful as well. It will rekindle its rivalry with the MG Hector Plus and the Tata Safari.