At the launch of the updated XUV500, Mahindra confirmed the addition of two more variants: a hybrid and an automatic version.

The hybrid is expected to take a little more time, while the automatic version is ready to be launched in January 2016, reports NDTV auto.

Mahindra is already selling the 6-speed auto box in its popular Scorpio SUV. However, the XUV500 is likely to get an all-new automatic transmission. The utility vehicle major has earlier confirmed XUV500 automatic for the Australian market.

Apart from the transmission, XUV500 automatic will carry over the 2.2-litre mHawk engine that produces 140bhp at 3750rpm and 330Nm of torque in the range of 1600-2800rpm. The SUV features disc brakes on all four 17-inch wheels.

On the safety front, the XUV500 comes with six airbags (front, side and curtain), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill Descent and Hill Hold control, and ABS with EBD. Other features of the XUV500 include reverse parking, logo-projection lamps on OVRMS, six-way power adjustable driver seat, push button start/stop, key-less entry and 7-inch infotainment touchscreen.

The previous report indicates that the Mahindra is geared up to launch TUV300, S101 Mini SUV and Updated Quanto(U215) by 2015-end. XUV500 automatic's launch may have been postponed so that the company concentrate on the new launches.

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