India’s leading utility vehicle maker Mahindra has launched a new lower-spec variant of the XUV 500 automatic. Launched at Rs 14.29 lakh, ex-showroom Navi Mumbai, this W6 FWD variant joins the existing W8 FWD, W10 FWD and AWD to form the automatic line-up.
In terms of engine and gearbox, the W6 variant is the same as the rest of the automatic range and continues to feature a 6-speed gearbox that’s paired to the familiar 2.2-litre, 140bhp four-cylinder diesel engine. Mahindra is claiming a fuel efficiency of 13.85kmpl for the automatic model.
The 6-speed automatic is made in Japan by Aisin AW and features a manual mode with controls on the gear stick to upshift and downshift. This fairly advanced unit will eventually feature in a range of forthcoming Mahindra and SsangYong SUVs
Compared to the top-spec W10 variant which is priced at Rs 16.8 lakh ex-showroom Navi Mumbai, the W6 automatic loses out on a few features and safety equipment including keyless start, voice command, reverse parking, side curtain airbags and ESP with rollover mitigation.
At Rs 14.29 lakh, the XUV 500 W6 automatic competes with the Hyundai Creta automatic which is available in the 1.6 SX Plus variant priced at Rs 14.40 lakh ex-showroom Delhi.
