The new model is actually a redesigned version of the Mahindra XUV300 with modern design and technology
- The Mahindra XUV 3XO debuts in India as a heavily updated version of the XUV300.
- The SUV adopts modern styling cues from Mahindra’s previous concepts and new technologies in the interior – including Level 2 ADAS.
- The drive options include 1.2-liter petrol and 1.5-liter diesel, with a fully electric version also expected to follow in the future.
Mahindra introduced the small SUV XUV 3XO as a successor to the aging XUV300 for the Indian market. Despite the modernized exterior and interior design, the model is still based on the underpinnings of the SsangYong Tivoli, which has been around since 2015, albeit with significant improvements.
Starting with the exterior, the XUV 3XO is a comprehensive facelift of the previous XUV300 while retaining the proportions and greenhouse. The completely redesigned face is inspired by Mahindra’s latest styling language and features vertically arranged LED headlights and a more sculpted bumper. The profile is largely retained, but gets thicker plastic cladding around the wheel arches and new alloy wheels measuring 16 or 17 inches, depending on the version. The rear has also been heavily modernized with full-width LEDs and a robust bumper design.
More: KG Mobility Tivoli is doing away with the SsangYong identity with a redesigned face
The interior was in dire need of a refresh, so Mahindra designers brought it up to date. The highlight is the new 10.25-inch free-standing infotainment touchscreen, which is combined with an equally large digital instrument cluster and supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The glossy black trim may look a little dated, but the materials are reportedly improved compared to the previous model.
Higher trim levels add features like a sunroof, wireless charging pad, seven-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a Level 2 ADAS suite that’s considered the most advanced in its segment. From a practical perspective, Mahindra found a way to increase the cargo capacity from 257L (9.1 cubic feet) to 295L (10.4 cubic feet) even though the footprint remained the same.
Mahindra
As mentioned earlier, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is based on the same platform as its predecessor – the XUV300 – the Indian cousin of the SsangYong Tivoli. Powertrain options include a 110 hp (82 kW / 111 hp) or 129 hp (96 kW / 131 hp) turbocharged 1.2-liter gasoline engine and a 115 hp (86 kW / 117 hp) 1.5-liter turbodiesel PS). Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed torque converter automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. In the future, the SUV will also be offered as an electric vehicle as the successor to the XUV400.
The Mahindra The entry-level model’s starting price is cheaper than rivals Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon, underlining Mahindra’s value for money approach.