Mahindra downsizes XUV500 engine for regions with NGT diesel ban

The downsized engine is expected to be introduced in regions where the NGT diesel ban is to be extended.The Mahindra XUV500 1.99L AT has been launched in the NCR. The UV specialist launched the manual variants of the XUV500 and Scorpio with downsized 1.99L diesel engine exclusively for the NCR earlier this year to undercut the NGT ban.

The 6-speed automatic transmission sourced from AISIN is aimed at enhancing the flagship SUV’s appeal in the national capital. We expect the autobox to eventually make it to the Scorpio 1.99L as well.

The NCR-spec XUV500’s 1.99L engine is essentially a downsized version of the 2.2-litre mHawk unit that is available elsewhere. The downsized motor produces 140 bhp and 320 Nm of torque.

The 1.99L AT model is available in three trim levels namely W6, W8 and W10. The base W6 is priced at INR 14.51 lakhs, the W8 retails for INR 15.94 lakhs and the fully loaded W10 would set you back by INR 17.32 lakhs (prices are ex-showroom, Delhi).

Mahindra is expected to introduce the 1.99L versions of the XUV500 and Scorpio in the regions where the NGT diesel ban comes into effect. The environmental watchdog is reportedly gearing up to extend the diesel ban to 11 more cities and is slated to hear the arguments of SIAM and the Indian government against the ban sometime in July.

This article has first appeared in Rushlane