Inside, you are welcomed with by a familiar cabin with improved fit-and-finish. Mahindra have also replaced the centre console in matte finish with glossy piano black finish, which looks pretty decent. Another element is the introduction of faux leather on the dashboard and door panels, which actually adds a bit more class to the XUV500. New tan leather seat-covers also give the cabin a rich look and so does the new infotainment system, which has evolved from the earlier unit. One feature that will impress back seat passengers is the option of pairing their smart watches with the infotainment system via their smartphones, using the Mahindra Blue Sense app. This allows them to operate the music, take and cancel calls, read out messages, and even control the air-conditioning system.
Apart from these changes, the XUV500’s cabin is exactly the same as before. It has more than ample room in all the three rows, a-c vents throughout the SUV, a sunroof, and a number of cup-holders and small storage spaces. Comfort-wise, the front seats provide ample leg- and knee-room and have good overall support. The second-row seats are also amazing with good knee-room and thigh support. Third-row space is also quite decent for the Indian of average build.
Now about the only technical change the new XUV500 gets, and that is greater power and torque. The refreshed version retains the same 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, but it now produces 155 PS and 360 Nm, which is 15 PS and 30 Nm more as compared to the mHawk140 diesel engine. Mahindra were able to achieve more power and torque by fitting a new eVGT (Variable Geometry Turbocharger) which has improved the power and torque delivery drastically. The six-speed gearbox remains the same and so do the chassis and suspension. However, the small technical change in the engine has made a huge difference to the SUV.
