Mahindra XUV 3XO: The Mahindra XUV 3XO is the Indian automaker’s comprehensive update to its compact SUV package, a follow-up to the XUV300 with more features, updated looks and more tech on board.
This time around, the strategic update will help it bolster its position against something which is fierce competition in the sub-4-meter SUV space along with taking into account of the feedback of the erstwhile variant.
Design Transformation
The XUV 3XO is designed to take on a premium and evolved look that falls in line with Mahindra’s latest offerings in the market.
Mahindra XUV300 The front fascia looks more imposing with a wider grille with the signature Mahindra badge, and C-shaped LED DRLs.
The re-designed bumpers and hood give the sub-4 metre truck a stronger look without disturbing the overall proportions which are vital for tax benefits in India.
There are also profile changes like new alloy wheel designs as large as 17 inches and slight character lines that add visual interest.
Much has changed at the back, with LED taillights mounted from end to end, a feature that’s becoming a trend in premium categories and brings a feel of luxury to this sub-American creation.
Interior Refinement
On the inside, the XUV 3XO fixes one of the key gripes on its predecessor with an all-new vent-heavy dashboard dominated by a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The dual screen cabin (from the digital instrument cluster) give the cabin a much more modern flavour – while better quality materials and fit and finish sing of Mahindra’s emphasis on perceived quality.
Convenient features include added storage throughout and a wireless charging pad, as well as updated seating that provides more support on longer trips.
The panoramic sunroof – rare in this class – washes the interior in light and gives it an airier feel despite the small size.
Performance and Dynamics
The XUV 3XO carries forward the tried and tested powertrain choices which include the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol with around 110bhp on tap and the 1.5-litre diesel churning out roughly 115bhp.
A new 6-speed automatic gearbox was also added to the line-up – alongside the 6-speed manual – which features for smoother shifts and better city driveability.
The XUV 3XO rides on a setup that has been tuned, and it feels like a better compromise between ride and handling compared to the vehicle before.
Communication through the steering wheel is good, and additional sound insulation cuts down on road and engine noise for a quieter ride.
Technology and Safety
Technology makes a big jump too with the Galaxy featuring ADAS (advanced driver asistance systems) fetaures – a rare find on models in this class.
Those include lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control on upper-level trims.
The expansive safety gear includes six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist and a 360-degree camera system.
The connected car platform facilitates remote vehicle functions, all managed through an app on the smartphone, that include pre-conditioning the climate-control, tracking the car’s location and also analysing the driving actions – something that’s usually seen in the higher rungs of automobiles for sale.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Above the segment rare design statements
Equipped with many functions such as panorama, sky sunroofADAS full set of functions configuration.
Generous interior with intelligent and practical storage options
Strong safetystep with six airbags now standard
Better sound attenuation and a more polished ride
Strong engine options with good low-end torque
Cons:
Some hesitation from automatic gearbox on fast overtakes
Infotainment can be sluggish
Tall passengers may want more headroom in the rear seat
Boots pace smaller than some of its key rivals
More expensive models encroach upsized midsize-SUV prices
Service network in narrower than some rivals
Mahindra XUV 3XO: The Verdict
The Mahindra XUV 3OO is more of an evolution than revolution, resolving many issues of the last gen model and introducing it with lot of tech and creature comfort.
By offering premium features, such as advanced driver assistance system, connected car tech and panoramic sunroof, in the compact SUV segment, Mahindra is betting on a game changer for buyers who want upmarket frills but don’t want to move up to a bigger car.
Like all such designs, there are a few compromises (primarily in back-seat room and load space), but the 3XO shows how much more sophisticated and attuned to the tastes of urban SUV buyers Mahindra has become when it comes to features and technology, as well as practicality, of course.