Mahindra XUV500 [2015-2018] User Reviews

Exterior No one has doubts that from outside it is a real stunner. Its aggressive stance is a treat to eyes and also the curved LED on the headlamps attracts attention.

The recent subtle changes on the front bonnet with repositioned fog lamps adds to its looks. The arches on the bonnet adds to its good looks.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) The top end version W10 is a real treat. The user would have overwhelming experience. At first the big waterfall dashboard would be a little intimidating but very soon you would realize that all buttons are falling at the convenient distance and are easy to operate. The latest changes of interior on Black and Beige theme is pleasing to eyes.

The Sunroof is a welcome addition along with the 6 way automatic seats. I appreciate the reach of driver seat movement, be it vertical or height adjustment.

Many manual users have mentioned about the stiff clutch lever, however the AT version have completely taken away that issue and made this car a pleasure to drive. Whether you are in the crowded Bangalore roads or on a 6 lane highway you would be greeted by this car’s agility and powerful torque. I am sure it will always bring a smile at your face.

Such a nice pickup and torque is adequately mated by 4 wheel disk brakes which will keep you in control. It has ability to bring the vehicle to a halt at any speed. Nowhere would you feel any shakiness while braking, the car can stop at a straight line. However, that will certainly throw the second row passengers if the seatbelts are not worn. I feel that is more prominent due to the ample leg room for the second row.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox The 2.2 L engine is able to accelerate at any speed. The engine noise is more as against the manual transmission, that’s due to the gear change setting of AT. But it would never be intrusive. Moveover, its audible only at 1st and 2nd gear, the engine sound becomes fainted on any other gear. If you are playing music system, then you would not notice that.

Bigger engine and heavy metal sheet body certainly makes it a heavy car and that is felt specially on higher speed. That has an impact on the mileage. However its regularly giving me 10-12 Km/L in Bangalore. I am not an aggressive driver who would revv high even at a small opportunity. Considering its size, I am satisfied by its fuel economy.

6 speed torque converter based AT system by a Japanese firm named Aisin. A best combination of power and convenience. You would love it every time to take this car out for a ride. The gear stick is nice to hold. I hardly use the Manual mode, however there is very less to do in the manual mode if you are not at right speed. The internal computer will override your manual command if the vehicle is not at the correct speed.

Ride Quality & Handling I would not give full marks but you also need to consider that you are riding a big vehicle. However once the car is fully loaded, i observe it to be more comfortable.

On the handling front i have not found any issue. It glides over small potholes or uneven road surfaces. Rather my fear of speed breakers have also reduced. I have driven my car on single roads where if there is any need to overtake or any vehicle coming from other side, you sometime have to take one wheel on the soil. I really found that very nice on this car. it soaks up the jerk or uneven surfaces.

Final Words At this price range, this is a complete package. The gizmos and gadgets can hardly be matched by any other car. I am quite happy with the overall experience.

Areas of improvement Storage space is in short supply, you would have to depend on the overhead carrier if all the three rows are filled. If the last row of seats are folded, it will give you a huge luggage space. For small items there are ample space all around.

The middle row AC would not feel as effective as the first and 3rd rows. However Auto climate control makes the cabin chilled within 3-5 minutes.

If you have put the trip meter A or B, it will automatically go back to ODO once the engine is switched off. This is a small inconvenience,  you would have to change it everytime you start your car.