Mahindra recently launched the XUV 3XO, the facelifted version of the XUV300, in the sub-4 meter compact SUV market. With competitive pricing and a start of bookings from May 15th, the XUV 3XO aims to capture the attention of new car buyers. We had the chance to drive the new automatic turbo petrol version in Nashik, and here’s our detailed review of the vehicle’s updates, design, performance, and overall driving experience.
Design and Exterior
Front and Rear Styling:
- Front: The front design is polarizing, with a gloss black strip with chrome vertical inserts, C-shaped LED DRLs, projector headlamps, and LED fog lamps giving it a futuristic look. However, this appliance-like design might not appeal to everyone.
- Rear: The rear features all-LED tail lamps with connected LED bars, a design trend in this segment. The sculpted rear bumper adds to the muscular look, although the chopped-off design to meet the sub-4 meter regulation might not please everyone aesthetically.
Side Profile:
- Wheels: Higher variants get 17-inch redesigned alloy wheels, while lower variants continue with 16-inchers.
- Overall Profile: The side profile remains largely unchanged from the XUV300.
Interior and Comfort
Dashboard and Materials:
- Design: The dashboard and interior mirror those of the XUV400 EV facelift with a new design.
- Features: Includes a 10.35-inch floating-type touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, multi-function steering wheel, and leatherette upholstery. Soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door pads enhance the premium feel.
- Climate Control: Dual-zone climate control is available, but features like front seat ventilation and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat are missing.
Space and Practicality:
- Roominess: Ample space in both front and rear seats, with Mahindra claiming best-in-class roominess. The ivory-colored interiors feel airy but may be hard to maintain.
- Boot Space: Improved boot space with 295 liters up to the backrest and 364 liters up to the roof. A 60:40 split rear seat is standard, enhancing cargo flexibility.
Driving Experience
Engine and Performance:
- Engine: 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 130 PS and 230 Nm of peak torque.
- Transmission: New 6-speed automatic transmission replaces the less refined AMT, offering seamless and smooth gear shifts.
Handling and Ride Quality:
- Steering: Well-balanced steering that is light for city use and provides good weight for highway driving.
- Suspension: Improved suspension tuning for a comfortable ride without compromising stability. The previous issue of a hard ride has been addressed, offering a better overall experience.
NVH Levels:
- Petrol Version: Notably quieter with improved NVH levels.
- Diesel Version: Still somewhat loud inside the cabin, indicating room for further refinement.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS):
- Features: Top-end AX7 L version comes with Level 2 ADAS similar to the XUV700.
- Performance: The system is proactive but occasionally overly cautious. Mahindra may need to refine this feature through firmware updates to improve calibration and reduce unnecessary interventions.
Conclusion
The Mahindra XUV 3XO brings several significant updates to the table, making it a strong contender in the sub-4 meter compact SUV segment. Its combination of a futuristic design, improved interior quality, enhanced driving dynamics, and advanced features makes it an appealing choice for modern car buyers, particularly those from the ‘smartphone generation.’
Pros:
- Powerful and peppy turbocharged petrol engine
- Smooth and refined new 6-speed automatic transmission
- Spacious and premium-feeling interior
- Improved ride quality and handling
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Polarizing front design may not appeal to everyone
- Ivory-colored interiors may be hard to maintain
- Diesel version still has higher NVH levels
- ADAS needs better calibration
Overall, the XUV 3XO offers a compelling package that could very well live up to Mahindra’s claim of being “everything that you want and more,” provided potential buyers find its design appealing and can manage the interior maintenance.
