The B-SUV segment constitutes nearly half of all SUV sales in India, representing a coveted share for all manufacturers. Mahindra, a significant player in this segment, boasts a substantial portion of the market and is claimed to be the revenue leader. However, despite its prominence, Mahindra’s performance in the B-SUV segment hasn’t been as stellar as anticipated. The XUV 300, while initially a compelling choice for urban SUV enthusiasts under the 4-meter mark, has gradually begun to show signs of ageing. With comprehensive updates rolling out for its competitors, the XUV 300 faced tougher competition. In response, Mahindra embarked on a thorough revamp, resulting in the birth of the XUV 3XO, a vehicle poised to reclaim its position in the segment.
The most conspicuous transformation lies in the design language. Mahindra’s “heartcore” design ethos takes centre stage, evident from the revamped frontal aesthetics. Previously characterized by its rectangular headlamp design and signature DRLs seamlessly integrated into the bumper, the XUV 300 now exudes a sportier vibe. The redesigned front fascia, accentuated by blacked-out lamps and a prominent piano-black finished grille, presents a more dynamic stance, especially when adorned with lighter shades. Offering a choice of eight distinct colors, with the option for a dual-tone black or grey roof on select variants, the XUV 3XO delivers on both style and personalization.
Inside, the transformation continues with a fresh dashboard design and the introduction of a spacious 10-inch infotainment screen, featuring Adrenox technology in higher-end models. Complementing the modernized cockpit are upgraded instrument clusters, available in 10-inch LCD screens with customizable themes. The dual-tone black and light beige interior palette enhances the sense of airiness, while premium touches like leatherette upholstery and perforated seats elevate the overall ambience. Notably, the higher-end variants boast a segment-first electronic handbrake with auto-hold function, further enhancing convenience and sophistication.
Under the hood, the XUV 3XO offers a trio of engine options: a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol MPFI unit, a newer 1.2-litre turbo-petrol direct injection powertrain, and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine. Accompanying these powertrains are transmission choices that include AMT variants for petrol and diesel engines, along with an Aisin-sourced torque-converter automatic for the 1.5-litre petrol TGDI motor. During our test drive of the AT variant, delivering an impressive 130PS at 5000rpm and 230Nm of torque (with an overboost option to 250Nm), the XUV 3XO exhibited robust performance characteristics. While some turbo-lag was evident at lower speeds, manual gear changes effectively mitigated this issue. Mahindra’s claims of best-in-class drivability are substantiated by the motor’s refined performance, delivering swift acceleration and admirable efficiency.
The overall dynamics of the XUV remain similar to the outgoing model. While the suspension has received some updates to improve roll and ride quality, only a back-to-back test with the outgoing XUV can confirm this. However, the ride quality is good despite running on 17-inch wheels. The wide track and height of the vehicle add to the dynamics too. The steering is light at city speeds and nicely weighs up as speed increases. The steering weight like the outgoing 300 can also be chosen manually. There are three modes to choose from (Zip, Zap and Zoom) by simply pressing a button and one can immediately feel the steering weight change with the modes. I preferred to leave it on Zoom at higher speeds and on the highway and preferred Zip in town.
The 3XO is available in nine trim levels now including five MX series variants and four Adrenox variants. The MX1 entry starts at Rs 7.49 lakh, ex-showroom and offers standard features such as projector lamps, LED signature lamps, 6 airbags, ESC, electrically adjustable mirrors, rear AC vents and more. The MX2 and MX2 pro is priced at Rs 9.99 lakh and 10.39 lakh for the diesel variant and offers a 10-inch infotainment screen, steering controls and keyless entry to name a few and the pro trim gets a sunroof too. The MX3 and MX3 Pro meanwhile start at Rs 9.49 lakh and 9.99 lakh respectively with the petrol turbo MPFI motor and get a sunroof, Wireless Android Auto and Carplay, Cruise control, wireless charger etc. The pro variant also gets Bi-LED projector headlamps, LED DRLs with indicators and the infinity tail lamp.
The Adrenox series meanwhile starts at Rs 10.69 lakh for the AX5 TMPFI variant and gets built-in Alexa, 16-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, rear-view camera, push-button start, TPMS, height adjustable seats, roof rails and rear spoiler and 6-speakers. The AX5L is only available with the TGDI engine and is priced at Rs 11.99 lakh. This trim gets Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree surround-view camera system with blind view monitor, auto dimming IRVM, electronic parking brake with auto hold and a cooled glove box.
The range-topping AX7 and AX7L trims start at Rs 12.49 lakh and 13.99 lakh respectively for the TGDI version. These trims offer the skyroof, Harman Kardon audio with an amplifier and sub-woofer, leatherette on the dash and door trims, 17-inch diamond cut alloys, LED front fog lamps, front parking assist and more while the AX7L adds the 360-degree camera system and ADAS 2 safety features.
The XUV 300, renowned for its spacious cabin, robust performance, and safety features, receives a well-deserved upgrade in the form of the XUV 3XO. Building upon its predecessor’s strengths, the XUV 3XO integrates a sportier design, a modernized interior, and an array of comfort-enhancing features.The boot space is still lower than the competition on paper but Mahindra claims that the space up to the rear backrest is still higher than a few of its rivals making it useful where it counts. With the addition of ADAS 2 safety features, it will be interesting to see how it fares in the updated Bharat NCAP safety tests. Moreover, its competitive pricing further solidifies its appeal as a compelling choice in the B-SUV segment, catering to a broad spectrum of consumers seeking both performance and value.
