மஹிந்திரா எக்ஸ்யூஎஸ் AT W9 2WD

It has been only a few months since the facelift of XUV 500 was introduced. Now, the company is back in the news by launching automatic variants in this lineup. This particular trim named Mahindra XUV500 AT W8 FWD carries the same 2.2-litre diesel motor, which now comes paired with an automatic transmission gear box. Except for this, there are no other changes to its mechanical specifications or features list. It has intimidating exteriors and includes some arresting elements like front radiator grille with chrome inserts, static bending projector headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, and twin exhaust pipes. Inside the cabin, there is a dual tone dashboard housing equipments like a touchscreen infotainment system, and responsive steering wheel. Also, there are second and third row foldable seats as well as some storage spaces for enhanced convenience. Interesting attributes like Mahindra BLUESENSE app, voice recognition system, power operated windows and conversation mirror all these contribute for better comfort. This trim also has many significant aspects like crumple zones for crash protection, dual front airbags and digital immobilizer to name a few.

Exteriors:

This huge machine is robust in appearance, while its style factor makes it stand out among others in this segment. Its bold front facade has a muscular bonnet with expressive lines and there are smart rain sensing wipers fitted to its large windscreen. The static bending projector headlamps arranged on either sides of its radiator grille, come with stylish light guides. Meanwhile, the grille is perforated and has chrome inserts on it. The bumper houses an air intake section and a couple of fog lamps with chrome bezel. On the sides, there is chrome lining on its windows, while the B-pillars are painted in black color. The mirrors have side turn blinkers and the 17 inch alloy wheels comes covered with P235/65 R17 sized tubeless radial tyres. Its stylish rear end has attributes like twin exhaust pipes, windshield with a wiper and defogger. The tailgate looks impressive with a chrome slat, while the large tail lamps further adds elegance to its rear profile.

Interiors:

Its plush interiors are designed elegantly and decorated with black and beige color scheme. The dual tone dashboard houses various elements such as air vents, twin pod instrument cluster, and an audio unit as well. The steering wheel is wrapped with fine leather and it has tilt as well as telescopic adjustment facilities. Leather upholstery is used for its well cushioned seats, which are also integrated with headrests. The driver's seat can be manually adjusted in eight different ways, whereas the second and third row seats have split folding facility. The icy blue lounge lighting, chrome inserts as well as scuff plates altogether further adds classiness to its interiors. It comes with a high volume glove box compartment that also includes a laptop holder. Besides these, aspects like conversation mirror, reading lamps, assist grips and a few other storage spaces are also offered.

Engine and Performance:

Under the hood of this muscular SUV, there is a 2.2-litre, mHawk diesel engine that is now paired with a six speed automatic transmission gear box. It comes with a displacement capacity of 2179cc and comes with the fifth generation variable geometry turbocharger. It carries four cylinders, sixteen valves and integrated with a common rail fuel supply system. It churns out a peak power of 140bhp at 3750rpm and delivers 330Nm torque output between 1600 and 2800rpm. All the power produced by this motor is transmitted to its front wheels.

Braking and Handling:

A robust set of disc brakes are fitted to all its four wheels that includes calipers as well. The advanced anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution are also on offer. The car maker has incorporated it with an independent suspension system that ensures greater stability. A pair of McPherson struts are assembled on its front axle, and the rear one gets a multi link type of mechanism. Both of them are also equipped with anti roll bars for further assistance. Then, there is a power assisted steering system that simplifies the vehicle's handling besides keeping it under the driver's control. It has tilt as well as telescopic adjustment functions that supports a compact turning radius.

Comfort Features:

It is bestowed with a fully automatic temperature control unit that makes the atmosphere quite pleasant inside. The ORVMs are power adjustable and foldable, while there are mobile charging points in all three rows. The DIS in-built music system is offered with a 7-inch color touchscreen display. It includes GPS navigation, USB connectivity, and picture viewer. Also, there is the Mahindra BLUE SENSE app, two tweeters and four high quality speakers. Besides these, the list also has remote tail gate opening, glove box with laptop holder, tinted solar reflecting glass, steering mounted with audio, phone and voice command switches, entry assist lamps, power windows with express down function on the driver's side and a few others.

Safety Features:

This mid range variant is packed with various protective features that ensures a safe journey. Some of these include digital immobilizer, door ajar lamps, electronic stability program with rollover mitigation, dual front, side as well as curtain airbags. Not just these, but there are also crumple zones for crash protection, anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, rear demister, and hill descent control as well.

Pros:

1. Automatic gear box further boosts engine performance.

2. Proficient braking and suspension mechanisms.

Cons:

1. Fuel economy can be made better.
2. Safety standards should be further improved.