The Mahindra XUV500 (facelift 2015) 2.0d (140 Hp) Automatic represents a significant iteration of Mahindra’s popular SUV, launched in 2015 and continuing through 2017. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the XUV500 lineup, this variant aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and convenience with its automatic transmission. The facelift brought cosmetic and feature updates to the original XUV500, solidifying its position as a spacious, seven-seater SUV in the Indian market, and increasingly, in export markets. It was designed to appeal to families seeking a comfortable and capable vehicle for both city driving and occasional off-road excursions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mahindra |
| Model | XUV500 |
| Generation | XUV500 (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0d (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | mHawk |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 720 l (25.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4585 mm (180.51 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the XUV500 2.0d Automatic is the Mahindra’s mHawk 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine. This engine, designated with various internal codes depending on the specific year and calibration, is an inline-four cylinder unit featuring a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The use of a turbocharger and intercooler significantly boosts power output, allowing the engine to produce 140 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm. Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was a key selling point, offering smoother gear changes compared to the standard manual transmission. This transmission was specifically tuned to work with the characteristics of the mHawk engine, providing adequate acceleration and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 hp and automatic transmission combination in the XUV500 delivered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.5 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but noticeably slower than the manual transmission variants or those equipped with the more powerful engine options. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. The torque available from 1600 rpm provided sufficient pulling power for overtaking maneuvers and handling inclines, but drivers often needed to downshift for quicker responses. Compared to the manual version, the automatic offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban traffic. However, some reviewers noted a slight delay in the transmission’s response, especially when shifting from park or neutral.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2015 facelift XUV500 2.0d Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags, though the number of airbags varied depending on the trim level. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a reverse camera.
Chassis & Braking
The XUV500’s chassis featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were also discs, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An anti-roll bar at the front helped to reduce body roll during cornering. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it convenient for maneuvering in tight spaces. Tire size was typically 235/65 R17, mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mahindra XUV500 2.0d Automatic was generally well-received in the Indian market, particularly by families seeking a spacious and comfortable SUV. Critics praised its value for money, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the engine lacked the outright performance of some of its competitors. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic offered greater convenience but at the cost of slightly reduced fuel economy and acceleration. Compared to other SUVs in its class, the XUV500 offered a compelling combination of features and price, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The Mahindra XUV500 2.0d Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The mHawk engine is known for its durability, and the Aisin automatic transmission is generally considered to be robust. However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Common issues reported by owners include occasional problems with the infotainment system and wear and tear on suspension components. Today, the XUV500 remains a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and affordable seven-seater SUV, and the 2.0d Automatic variant continues to hold its value reasonably well.
