Mahindra has confirmed that the XUV500 will receive a facelift before the end of 2017. IAB's automotive illustrator Shoeb Kalania has done a render of the Mahindra XUV500 facelift depicting the changes the model might entail.
The render shows the car with a new toothed grille similar to the Mahindra Imperio. This grille design looks set to become a signature Mahindra styling trait as the upcoming U321 MPV and KUV100 facelift also have something similar. The headlamps, though alike in profile, get new detailing with a sharper L-shape LED DRL strip and projector headlamps. The design of front bumper is cleaner and gets trapezoidal pockets. It also houses rectangular fog lamp units with air intakes located right below. New multi-spoke dual tone alloy wheels round up the changes made to the exterior.
On the inside, changes are likely to be restricted to the shade of upholstery and the colour scheme for the dashboard. However, since changes made to the cabin were minimal when the updated 2015 model launched, one cannot rule out a comprehensive makeover this time around. Areas that need attention are the instrument cluster and the steering wheel. The 7-inch touchscreen AVN that was introduced in April with EcoSense, Android Auto and Connected Apps will get retained.
The 2.2 L mHawk diesel will continue powering the XUV500. However, it will get remapped to churn out more power and torque to the tune of 170 hp and 350-360 Nm respectively, according to media reports.
Mahindra is expected to launch the XUV500 facelift in the last quarter of 2017. A significant hike in price is unlikely, and the SUV could come in at a starting price of INR 12.20 Lakhs (ex-showroom).
