Upcoming Next-gen XUV500 Has A New Name!

• The next-gen SUV will be launched around July 2021.

• It is expected to utilise the Thar’s 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines in a higher state of tune.

• AWD (all-wheel-drive) will be optional

• Will take on the Tata Harrier, Safari, MG Hector/Hector Plus, and Hyundai Alcazar.

Mahindra has clarified that its next-gen SUV will be called XUV700 (and not XUV500). Built on a new platform, the mid-size SUV will boast a flurry of segment-first features and is scheduled to launch between July and September 2021. We think a probable reason for this last-minute name change is that the upcoming model would be a more premium offering than the existing XUV500.

The XUV700 is based on Mahindra’s new W601 monocoque platform. If spy shots are anything to go by, the mid-size 7-seater will sport a cleaner look, for instance, door handles that are flush with the body. That said, there’s familiarity for comfort, thanks to Mahindra’s traditional slatted grille and the kink over the rear wheel arch.

The carmaker has confirmed that the SUV would get a bunch of segment-first features. Our guess, courtesy of the spy shots, is Level 1 autonomous tech like parallel park assist, autonomous emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. This will make the XUV700 the most affordable SUV to come with Level 1 autonomous capabilities. Another first for the XUV will be the Mercedes-inspired twin-screen setup, which is a large touchscreen display unit housing both infotainment and digital driver’s display. 

Other likely features include a panoramic sunroof (a first for the SUV), ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control. Passenger safety could be taken care of by multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, tyre pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and electronic stability control.

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The XUV700 will share the Thar’s 150PS 2.0-litre petrol and 130PS 2.2-litre diesel units but in a more powerful state of tune. Transmission duties should be taken care of by a 6-speed manual with optional automatic gearboxes for both engines. All-wheel drive (AWD) will be optional as well. 

Expect the XUV700 to be priced from Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. It will take on other mid-size SUVs like the Tata Safari, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, MG Hector Plus, and the recently unveiled Hyundai Alcazar.