Mahindra’s swanky SUV, the XUV500 is now more affordable owing to the introduction of its new entry-level W3 variant which is priced at Rs 12.22 lakhs (ex-showroom, Mumbai). Mechanically, the new base variant continues to be powered by the existing 2.2-litre, four-cylinder m-Hawk diesel engine that generates 153bhp of power and 360Nm of torque. The engine comes mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. To keep the price factor in check, the XUV500 W3 variant is loaded with new features, however, it still gets power-adjustable ORVMs, projector headlamps and electrically-operated dual HVAC.
Here below are the alternatives that you can consider buying at the price of the XUV500 W3–
Mahindra XUV300 W8 (O)
The top-spec feature loaded baby XUV, the diesel XUV300 W8 (O) is available at a price of Rs 11.99 lakhs (ex-showroom). Known to offer several segment first features, the top-spec version gets a leatherette upholstery, dual-zone climate control, front parking sensors, seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and navigation. Additionally, you also get heated wing mirrors, auto dimming rear view mirror, powered sunroof, front parking sensors and more. In terms of safety, you get seven airbags which include knee, curtain and side airbags. Apart from the diesel, the XUV300 is also available with a 1.2-litre petrol engine option.
The top-spec EcoSport S diesel is priced at Rs 11.9 lakhs (ex-showroom). The EcoSport S distinguishes itself from the regular version with all-new smoked HID headlamps with dark inserts and a more prominent black treatment to the fog lamp bezel. The variant also gets a blacked-out grille, black painted roof and roof rails, and 17-inch alloy wheels for that sporty appeal. Step inside and you will find a bigger 4.2-inch digital information cluster along with the tyre pressure monitoring system. For freshness, the variant gets orange accents on the seats as well as the instrument panel and an eight-inch infotainment system with SYNC 3. The S variant is also available with a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, EcoBoost engine that produces 123bhp of power and 170Nm of torque.
Nissan Kicks XV
Nissan Kicks XV diesel is priced at Rs 12.49 lakhs (ex-showroom). At this price, you get 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, roof rails, rear wiper and a rear-view camera. As for the interior, the vehicle gets rear seat armrest, floating eight-inch touchscreen infotainment and steering mounted controls. Additionally, the variant offers vehicle dynamic control function and an Eco mode. Safety features like ABS with brake assist, dual front airbags and rear parking sensor are standard.