Mahindra’s flagship SUV, the XUV500 has just got another variant, the W9 which slots between the W8 and the top-of-the-line W10. The changes are cosmetic along with some added equipment, with the engine and drivetrain remaining the same – like the W10, it gets the option of an automatic but no AWD. Some of the features that the W9 variant gets are the electric sunroof, reverse camera with dynamic assist, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, emergency call, static bending headlamps. These features were earlier only available on the W10 variant.
All these features at a price of Rs 15.45 lacs (ex-showroom Delhi), and costs 1.2 lakh less than the W10. What you miss out at that price point are little things like power adjustable seats, leather upholstery, illuminated scuff plates, aluminium pedals and a few other frills. However, this variant also misses out on the side and curtain airbags that the W10 gets.
Speaking about the launch of the XUV500 W9 variant, Veejay Ram Nakra, Chief of Sales & Marketing – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, said, “Since its launch in 2011, the XUV500 has been a pioneer in providing innovative hi-tech features that are not available even in vehicles that are almost double its price. We are certain that the introduction of these high-end features at such a competitive price point will generate a lot of interest amongst prospects who are evaluating SUVs in the price range of 14 lacs to 18 lacs. By introducing these aspirational features at this price, XUV500 has raised the bar once again.”
Powered by a 2179cc 4 cylinder mHawk engine with fifth gen VGT producing 140bhp at 3750rpm and 330Nm at 1600-2800rpm. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed synchromesh manual gearbox. The car sits on 235/65 R17 radial tubeless tyres on all four corners with McPherson type suspension with anti-roll bar at the front and a multilink type with anti-roll bar at the rear. Bringing the mammoth XUV to a halt are disc brakes equipped on all four wheels.