Mahindra updates SUV

THE popular Mahindra XUV500 sports utility vehicle has been enhanced with the addition of an automatic transmission option. The advanced six-speed transmission will initially only be available on the front-wheel W8 derivative.

“Our New Age XUV500 has been extremely well received since we launched this sophisticated, well-equipped and highly competent SUV locally in October last year,” Mahindra South Africa chief executive Sanjoy Gupta said.

“However, customer feedback indicated that there is a significant demand for an automatic transmission model.”

The automatic transmission is linked to the XUV500’s efficient turbodiesel engine. The 2.2-litre four-cylinder mHawk 140 turbodiesel makes use of a variable geometry turbocharger to produce 103 kW of maximum power at 3 750 r/min.

The impressive torque peak of 330 Nm is reached at just 1 600 r/min, and sustained to 2 800 r/min, ensuring athletic responses, excellent in-gear tractability and superior lugging power.

At 7.4 litres/100km for the combined cycle (two-wheel drive version), linked to CO2 exhaust emissions of just 196 g/km, the XUV500 W8 Automatic also counts efficiency among its talents.

The recommended retail price of the XUV500 W8 Auto is R389 995. The price includes a five-year/150 000km warranty, and a five-year/100 000km service plan. Services are at 20 000km intervals or every 12 months, whichever comes first. — DDR