Mahindra XUV 3XO: The Mahindra XUV 3XO, adventurous new face of the XUV300 now old, is the future of Mahindra’s compact SUV push.
With this segment getting more competitive by the day, particularly against the likes of Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue and Maruti Brezza, the 3XO is Mahindra’s attempt to reinvent the wheel as far as value, design and performance are concerned — albeit without compromising on price or wide appeal.
XUV 3XO is not just a cosmetic update over its predecessor; it certainly is one solid offering that comes from a stable foundation. It is a complete re-imagining of what the consumer wants from a sub-four meter SUV in today’s unforgiving market.
Mahindra XUV 3XO Sharpened, More Aggressive Looks
XUV 3XO is a big visual leap over its predecessor. The front bumper now gets a more aggressive design, a larger grille with piano-black finish, along with C-shaped LED DRL signature.
The headlamps are slimmer, while the rear is dominated by a linked LED light bar and the SUV’s fender flares appear even wider and more planted.
It is still no larger than XUV300 but the 3XO feels more bulked-up and mature. New for 2018, the 17-inch alloy exterior wheels, roof rails and body allowing you to also navigate in style.
It is certainly an easily distinguishable device, most notably due to the two-tone colour finishes.
Feature packed premium cabin
Step inside, and the changeling is even more apparent. There’s a brand new dashboard design that’s cleaner and made from higher quality materials. So Mahindra has added soft-touch panels, contrast stitching, and a new center console to uplift the cabin.
At the center of the interior lies a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver display, a seldom-seen combination in this segment.
The SUV is also loaded with dual-zone climate control, a premium Harman-Kardon audio system, ventilated front seats, and connected car technology. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard, as does a wireless charger and a sunroof, and there are several USB-C ports as well.
The cabin is usable as well as practical, with lots of somewhere-to-put things, and a 295-litre boot, which you’ll be glad to know has a more user-friendly loading lip.
Powertrain and Performance
The XUV 3XO comes with a choice of three engine options – a turbo-petrol 1.2-litre, a direct-injection turbo-petrol (TGDi) 1.2-litre, and a diesel 1.5-litre. The TGDi is 130 bhp and is one of the most potent in its segment.
Gear box options are 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic, depending on the variant.
There’s a nice feel to driving the 3XO. The turbo petrol engines have good mid-range punch, and the diesel is smooth and fuel-efficient. And ride quality is a strength — the suspension readily takes on bad roads without much compromise to comfort.
The steering is sharp and the car feels planted even at motorway speeds.
Safety and Technology
1. MAHINDRA SAFETY Mahindra has had a great reputation of building safe cars, and the XUV 3X0 is targeting to continue that legacy.
Standard safety across all trims includes six airbags, in addition to ESP, hill-hold assist, rear disc brakes, TPMS and ISOFIX mounts.
Top-end versions also get ADAS Level 2 as standard — it includes lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and emergency braking, a segment-first at this price.
The frame is from the XUV300 which managed a stellar 5 stars in the Global NCAP, giving the car some proven credibility.
Pros:
Aggressive looks and premium road presence
Numerous engines to choose from, including a potent TGDi unit
Dual-screen setup and feature-rich interior
Adaptive driving aids ADAS Level 2 and up with strong safety kit
Soft, quiet ride and very decent handling.
Cons:
Boot capacity is below the class average
Premium features are lacking in the lower variants
No automatic with the diesel engine
Maintenance is little expensive than Maruti / Tata.
Rear seat ideal for two adults, not three
Mahindra XUV 3XO Final Verdict
The MahindraXUV 3X0moniker isn’t just about a rebranding exercise (similar to what Tata did with its Safari) it’s a smart, well thought-out update that adds a whole new level of meaning to the compact SUV space.
From performance and features to safety and design, it strikes most of the right notes. Whether you’re stepping up from a hatchback or searching for a tech-rich compact SUV, the 3X0 serves up a tasty mix of practicality and punch lordy loo.