• The Mahindra XUV 3XO debuts in India as a heavily updated version of the XUV300.
  • The SUV adopts modern styling cues from Mahindra’s earlier concepts, and new technology inside the cabin – including Level 2 ADAS.
  • Powertrain options include 1.2-liter gasoline and 1.5-liter diesel options, while a fully electric version is also expected to follow in the future.

Mahindra unveiled the XUV 3XO small SUV 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 upgrades.

Starting with the exterior, the XUV 3XO is an extensive facelift of the outgoing XUV300, retaining the same proportions and greenhouse. The completely redesigned face is inspired by Mahindra’s latest styling language, adopting vertically-stacked LED headlights and a more sculpted bumper. The profile is largely carried over but gains thicker plastic cladding around the wheel arches and new alloys measuring 16 or 17 inches depending on the version. The rear end has also been heavily updated with full-width LEDs and a rugged bumper design.

More: KG Mobility Tivoli Abolishes SsangYong Identity With A Redesigned Face

The interior was in desperate 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 The glossy black trim might look a bit out of date but materials have been allegedly improved compared to the previous model.

High-spec trims get features like a sunroof, a wireless charging pad, a seven-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a Level 2 ADAS suite which is said to be the most advanced in the segment. In terms of practicality, Mahindra found a way to increase the cargo capacity from 257 lt (9.1 cubic feet) to 295 lt (10.4 cubic feet), despite retaining the same footprint.

Mahindra

As we mentioned earlier, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is based on the same platform with its predecessor – the XUV300 – which was the Indian cousin of the SsangYong Tivoli. Powertrain options include a turbocharged 1.2-liter gasoline engine producing either 110 hp (82 kW / 111 PS) or 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS), and a 1.5-liter turbodiesel producing 115 hp (86 kW / 117 PS). Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed torque converter automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox. In the future, the SUV will also be offered in EV form, as a follow up to the XUV400.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is already available in India, priced between Rs 7.49 lakh and Rs 15.49 lakh which is the equivalent of $8,970-18,550 according to the current exchange rates. The starting price of the entry-level model is cheaper than the Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon rivals, emphasizing Mahindra’s value-for-money approach.