Mahindra has binned two variants of the XUV500 – G AT and W11 O AT AWD. Don’t panic because they aren’t hard to fathom. G AT was the sole petrol-powered variant which joined the line-up only in December 2017. W11 O AT AWD might read more complicated, but it was the range-topping, diesel-fed variant with automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. The simple reason behind their demise is the lukewarm response for them.

The rest of the range has received an upward price revision. Except for the recently launched W3 variant, prices for all others have increased by up to Rs 2,000. Price for the entry-level W3, however, has been hiked by approximately Rs 8,000. The reason? All variants get additional features to become compliant with new safety norms. The standard safety kit now includes rear parking sensors, speed alert and seatbelt reminders. Dual airbags along with ABS & EBD were already on offer throughout the range.

The Mahindra XUV500 has been with us, in one form or another, since 2011. Over the years, it has received multiple styling and package updates as well as new engine and transmission options. The marque has done a fantastic job in establishing Mahindra in the mid-size SUV space. However, it feels a bit aged alongside its main rivals, including the MG Hector, Tata Harrier and the Jeep Compass. The competition also includes Kia Seltos at one end and Tata Hexa at the other.

It was in April last year when the current-gen XUV500 received its most recent facelift. However, to take the game to the opposition, Mahindra is prepping an all-new XUV500. It should be with us before the calendar reads 2021. Not only will it be BS6-ready (Bharat Stage 6) for obvious reasons but also a more potent package overall. Understandably, it will lack a petrol-powered derivative.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV500 Gets Apple CarPlay