Mahindra has just launched the BS6 compliant XUV500 diesel, which is the cheapest mid-size SUV now. It goes against MG Hector, Tata Harrier and Jeep Compass.
Mahindra silently launched the BS6 compliant XUV500, Scorpio and Alturas G4 on its official website. The prices were revealed and the bookings have also commenced online. Once the lockdown is over, the deliveries are expected to commence shortly. While transitioning to BS6 norms, all three SUVs have lost some of their variants.
As for the Mahindra XUV500, it now loses the AWD and the Automatic variants. It continues with its 2.2 Litre four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 153 BHP and 360 Nm of peak torque. a 6-speed manual gearbox remains standard for all variants. Now, the XUV500 comes in four variants including W5, W7, W9 and W11 (O).
With this, the XUV500 is now the cheapest SUV in its segment. Its prime competitors include MG Hector and Tata Harrier which are similar in dimensions, features and engine specifications. Here is the price comparison between the three:
| SUV | Price |
| XUV500 | Rs 13.20 Lakhs to Rs 17.70 Lakhs |
| Hector | Rs 13.88 Lakhs to Rs 17.73 Lakhs |
| Harrier | Rs 13.69 Lakhs to Rs 20.25 Lakhs |
Also Read: Exclusive: BS6 Mahindra XUV500 Prices Out; Gets Costlier By Rs 30,000
Since XUV500 and Harrier are only available in diesel engines, we have taken the Hector diesel in consideration. Otherwise, Hector remains the cheapest SUV with prices starting at Rs 12.74 Lakhs (ex-showroom). The base variant of XUV500 is nearly 50,000 to 70,000 cheaper than its rivals. The top-end variant of XUV500 is cheaper by just Rs 3,000 when compared to Hector.
Harrier is available in diesel-manual and diesel-automatic configurations. While the other two get a 6-speed MT as standard fitment. The prices of Harrier manual end at Rs 18.95 Lakhs, still making it the most expensive of all. With automatic variants considered, the prices go up to Rs 20.25 Lakhs (all prices ex-showroom).
If the features are to be compared, surely Hector is the fully-loaded SUV here. There are many features of Hector that do not come on any SUV in this segment. Some highlights include a vertical touchscreen infotainment system with i-Smart internet connectivity, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, digital instrument cluster, electric seat adjustment, mood lighting and much more.
Also Read: Exclusive: BS6 Mahindra Scorpio Top Variants Are Costlier By Rs 40,000
Mahindra is going to launch the new generation XUV500 in India by next year. It will get a completely new platform that will make the SUV lighter and stronger than ever. Other than that, there will be a fresh new design language, more premium features and new BS6 compliant petrol and diesel engines.
