The Mahindra XUV500 (facelift 2018) 2.2d, producing 155 horsepower, represents a significant iteration of Mahindra’s popular SUV, sold primarily in the Indian market and select export regions. Introduced in April 2018 and continuing through November 2021, this variant occupied a middle ground within the XUV500 lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It built upon the original XUV500 platform, aiming to refine the vehicle’s appeal with updated styling, improved features, and a more refined driving experience. The facelifted model aimed to address some criticisms of the earlier XUV500, particularly regarding interior quality and refinement, while maintaining the vehicle’s core strengths of spaciousness and value.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mahindra |
| Model | XUV500 |
| Generation | XUV500 (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2d (155 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2018 |
| End of production | November, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1750-2800 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | mHawk |
| Engine displacement | 2179 cm3 (132.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | eVGT |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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; 235/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the XUV500 2.2d is Mahindra’s mHawk diesel engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder unit. This engine utilizes a commonrail direct injection system, coupled with a variable geometry turbocharger (eVGT) and intercooler. The eVGT technology allows for optimized turbocharger performance across a wider range of engine speeds, contributing to both improved power delivery and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 155 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2800 rpm. The engine’s architecture is relatively straightforward, prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance, which were key considerations for the target market. The 6-speed manual transmission was the sole gearbox option for this variant, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The XUV500 2.2d offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The 155 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising, although it wasn’t as responsive as the higher-output versions available in the XUV500 range. The manual transmission allowed for good control over the engine’s powerband, but the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel economy than outright acceleration. Compared to the more powerful variants, the 2.2d felt less strained during uphill climbs or when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to decent fuel economy, but it also limited traction in slippery conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2018 facelift brought improvements to the XUV500’s interior, even in the 2.2d variant. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally fabric, with leather options available as an upgrade. Safety features included ABS and airbags, but more advanced safety technologies were typically reserved for the higher-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The XUV500 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a reasonably comfortable ride quality. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, while the rear wheels featured disc brakes. The electric power steering offered light and easy steering, making it suitable for urban driving. The vehicle’s ride height of 200 mm (7.87 in.) provided good ground clearance for navigating rough roads, a common requirement in the Indian market.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XUV500 2.2d was well-received in the Indian market as a practical and spacious SUV offering good value for money. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the higher-output variants and that the interior materials could be improved. Compared to the more powerful XUV500 models, the 2.2d appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel economy and affordability over outright performance. It also offered a more accessible entry point into the XUV500 range.
Legacy
The Mahindra XUV500 2.2d (facelift 2018) has established a reputation for reasonable reliability, particularly regarding the engine and transmission. The mHawk engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be a durable and relatively easy to maintain unit. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of regular maintenance and should inspect the vehicle thoroughly for any signs of wear and tear. The XUV500, in all its variants, played a crucial role in establishing Mahindra as a significant player in the Indian SUV market, and the 2.2d variant contributed to its overall success by offering a compelling combination of practicality, affordability, and comfort.
