Mahindra XUV 3XO: The Ultimate Compact SUV – Price, Features, and Performance Review

The Mahindra XUV 3XO has made a bold entry into the compact SUV segment with a refreshed design, upgraded features, and an enticing price tag. But does it have what it takes to compete with segment leaders? Let’s dive into its exterior, interior, engine and mechanical details, and price to find out.

Exterior Design: Bold & Dynamic Styling

Mahindra has given the XUV 3XO a dramatic makeover, ensuring it stands out on the road. The front, especially, has a unique and aggressive design.

Key Exterior Highlights:

• Bold New Front Fascia: Features vertically oriented split headlights with C-shaped DRLs inspired by the XUV 700.
• Gloss Panel Grille: A textured finish with chrome accents enhances its premium appeal.
• Sculpted Bonnet & Bumper: Adds a muscular look with sharp lines and a concept-car-inspired bumper design.
• Diamond-Cut Alloy Wheels: At 17 inches, they are the largest in the segment, adding to the SUV’s stance.
• Increased Ground Clearance: Raised to 201 mm, improving off-road capabilities.
• Tail-End Transformation: A full-width LED light bar adds a modern and sporty touch.
• Color Options: Available in eight colors, with contrast roof options in top trims.
• Boot Space Upgrade: Increased from 259L to 295L, now more competitive in its class.

Pros & Cons of Exterior Design

Pros: ✅ Bold and aggressive styling ✅ Large alloy wheels enhance road presence ✅ Full-width LED taillight adds a premium touch
✅ Improved boot space

Cons: ❌ Styling may not appeal to all buyers
❌ High loading lip makes luggage handling cumbersome

Interior & Comfort: Premium Features and Space

Mahindra has significantly improved the interior quality, making it more upmarket and feature-rich.

Key Interior Highlights:

• Premium Materials: Soft-touch dashboard with double stitching and gloss-black trims.
• 10.25-inch Touchscreen & Digital Instrument Cluster: Borrowed from the XUV 700, adding a tech-forward look.
• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay: Enhances smartphone connectivity.
• Panoramic Sunroof: A segment-first, bringing a sense of openness to the cabin.
• Improved Seating Comfort: Leatherette upholstery with perforations for added comfort.
• Dual-Zone Climate Control: Ensures better cabin temperature control.
• Safety Features: 6 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a 360-degree camera (in top variants).
• ADAS Suite: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and emergency braking.
• Spacious Cabin: The widest cabin in the segment, making rear-seat travel more comfortable.

Pros & Cons of Interior

Pros:
✅ High-quality materials and improved cabin finish
✅ Feature-loaded, including ADAS and a panoramic sunroof
✅ Comfortable seats and spacious rear row
✅ Large infotainment and instrument display add a modern touch

Cons:
❌ Gloss-black trims prone to fingerprints and scratches
❌ White upholstery could be hard to maintain
❌ Lack of steering reach adjustment

Engine & Mechanical Details

The XUV 3XO comes with three engine options, catering to different driving preferences.

Engine Options:

• 1.2L Turbo Petrol (110 HP, 200 Nm) – Offers a good balance of power and efficiency.
• 1.2L Turbo Petrol TGDi (130 HP, 230-250 Nm on Overboost) – The most powerful in the segment.
• 1.5L Diesel (117 HP, 300 Nm) – The most torque-heavy option, ideal for highway cruising.

Transmission Options:

• 6-Speed Manual – Standard across all engines.
• 6-Speed AMT (Diesel Only) – For those who prefer an automatic diesel.
• 6-Speed Torque Converter Automatic (Petrol Only) – A smooth-shifting gearbox that enhances driving comfort.

Performance Highlights:

• Petrol Auto: Offers smooth power delivery with minimal lag.
• Diesel Manual: Strong mid-range and highway cruising capabilities.
• Suspension & Ride: A firm but comfortable setup, handling rough roads well.
• Braking & Safety: Strong brakes with ESC and standard safety features.
• Steering Feel: Comes with drive modes (Zip, Zap, Zoom), but lacks precise feedback.

Pros & Cons of Engine & Mechanical Setup

Pros: ✅ Powerful turbo-petrol engine with segment-leading torque
✅ Diesel option is smooth, refined, and fuel-efficient
✅ 6-speed torque converter auto is well-calibrated
✅ Well-balanced ride and handling
✅ Good highway stability

Cons: ❌ Steering lacks precision and feel
❌ Clutch in manual variants can be tricky in city driving

Mahindra XUV 3XO Price

Mahindra has aggressively priced the XUV 3XO to attract buyers in the competitive compact SUV segment.

Price Breakdown (Ex-Showroom, India):

• Base Petrol Variant: ₹7.49 Lakh
• Diesel Variants: Price starts lower than competitors, offering better value.
• Turbo-Petrol TGDi Variants: Positioned higher, but justifiable due to the powerful engine and premium features.

Pros & Cons of Pricing

Pros:
✅ Competitive starting price
✅ More features at a lower price than rivals
✅ Premium turbo-petrol offers segment-leading performance

Cons:
❌ Higher-end variants slightly expensive compared to some competitors

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the XUV 3XO?

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is a compelling option in the compact SUV space, offering:

• A bold and aggressive design.
• A premium and tech-loaded interior.
• A powerful engine lineup with segment-first features.
• Strong safety and ADAS features.

Who Should Buy It?

• If you want a feature-loaded SUV with advanced safety features.
• If you prioritize a powerful engine, especially the 1.2L TGDi.
• If a spacious cabin and panoramic sunroof are on your wishlist.

Who Should Skip It?

• If you prefer a more traditional, understated design.
• If you need a more budget-friendly top-end variant.

FAQs

Author- Ayush