A version of the XUV500 with an automatic transmission.
Mahindra and its Korean subsidy, SsangYong, have tied up with Aisin AW of Japan for a new gearbox, which now drives the XUV500, the Korando and the Tivoli, and will be used in all the future premium products of both the brands.
The XUV500 is the only option for anyone looking to buy a proper seven-seater with an automatic transmission under Rs 20 lakh. For argument sake, there is also the Scorpio, but if someone is in the market for a big seven-seater automatic SUV for self-drive, the inclination of looking at the Scorpio is going to be negligible.
Visually, this is same as the facelifted model launched in May and the only addition is the automatic badge on the rear. It is a good thing though, at least for the bling loving Indian audience. The XUV500 is big, brawny and everything that most Indians want their SUVs to be.
The design in itself evokes extreme opinion, while most vouch by its styling, there are still others who don’t appreciate it much. Irrespective of what side you are on, the fact remains that you would not be able to ignore one on the roads.