New Mahindra XUV500 variant to fight Jeep Compass

Mahindra and Mahindra has launched a new variant to bridge the gap between it top-end variants. The new variant – W9 will also take on the Jeep Compass in India. The new W9 variant gets a host of features and is priced at Rs. 15.45 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi.

Mahindra XUV 500 W9 gets similar exteriors like the W10 variant. On the inside, the vehicle gets features like electric sunroof with anti-pinch, reverse camera with dynamic assist, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual airbags and more. The infotainment system is a new system that also supports Android Auto, Emergency calls and also comes with EcoSense Technology which monitors your driving habits.

The only difference between the W10 and the W9 variant is the number of airbags. The W9 variant offers two front airbags as standard whereas the W10 variant offers six airbags in total including the side and the curtain airbags. Apart from that, the W9 variant gets ABS with ESP, Hill Hold with Hill Descent, Front fog lamps, cornering lamps, and disc brakes on all four wheels as standard. The XUV 500 W9 also offers keyless entry and start/stop button.

Speaking about the launch of the XUV500 W9 variant, Veejay Ram Nakra, Chief of Sales & Marketing – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, said,

“Since its launch in 2011, the XUV500 has been a pioneer in providing innovative hi-tech features that are not available even in vehicles that are almost double its price. We are certain that the introduction of these hi-end features at such a competitive price point will generate a lot of interest amongst prospects who are evaluating SUVs in the price range of 14 lacs to 18 lacs.  By introducing these aspirational features at this price, XUV500 has raised the bar once again.”

The W9 variant gets powered by the same 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that generates a maximum power of 140 Bhp at 3,750 rpm and 330 Nm of peak torque between 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. There will be 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission available with the W9 variant.

The cheapest Jeep Compass diesel is priced at Rs. 15.81 lakh. The base model offers 5-inch infotainment system, five seats, halogen headlamps, dual airbags, ABS + EBD, ESC, four-wheel disc brakes. The XUV offers a longer list of features plus sunroof, which is unique in the segment. Jeep Compass, however, has a higher power output of 171 Bhp. Mahindra is planning to update the XUV 500 with a more powerful 170 Bhp engine soon.