Mahindra XUV 3XO sets the barre for compact crossover SUVs
The compact crossover (C-SUV) segment has been hot property in SA for some time, with manufacturers all clamouring to offer the best value for money vehicle they can. Mahindra has just laid down the gauntlet by introducing a new model into the segment with incredible standard specifications for the price bracket.
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The new 3XO stunned consumers in India by selling out of 50 000 units in the first hour of its release. The funky design and copious amounts of tech ensure that Mahindra is serious about taking the top spot in sales figures locally.
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What's on offer?
The Mahindra 3XO is a subcompact SUV-styled crossover which features a distinctive front grille and headlamp design with a piano black finish on the grille and LED headlamps, LED DRLs and LED fog lamps. Several unique wheel designs have been penned for the different XUV 3XO models, including a stylish 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheel on luxury models. At the rear, the infinity LED tail lamp stretches across the vehicle's rear and emphasises the wide and sporty stance.
Mahindra has given the 3XO a premium touch inside by styling the touch surfaces with a soft-touch leatherette. The dashboard extends to the door trims and leatherette seat upholstery to elevate the sense of sophistication. Leather accents are also present on the steering wheel, gear knob and front armrest.
Regarding tech, Mahindra has also not held back, shoehorning as many features as possible into the cabin. You will find twin 26.03 cm (10.25-inch) screens with wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay infotainment. First-in-segment features, like a 65-watt USB-C charging point and Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, are nice additions. You will also find a Harmon Kardon Premium Audio sound system with a dedicated amplifier and subwoofer offering "Sonic Expanse", "Bass Enhancer", a nine-band equaliser, and four ambient sound modes.
Safety-wise, Mahindra has also not held back. The 3XO provides Level 2 ADAS with 10 features. Radar technology aids in detecting obstacles in challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain or dense fog, thereby offering crucial collision warnings and facilitating Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). The 360-degree surround view system with a blind view monitor is also available. There's also a panoramic sunroof, which the brand claims is the largest in the segment.
Under the hood
The 3XO is powered by a turbo-petrol engine designed for exhilarating performance and superior efficiency. Staying true to the brand’s legacy of offering thrilling performance, the mStallion TCMPFi turbo-petrol engine delivers 82kW and 200Nm of torque. The 3XO will also feature a 6-speed AISIN Third Generation Automatic Transmission related to the unit from the XUV 700. Each engine is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox and an added option of 6-speed AISIN automatic transmission for petrol engines.
It also features three first-in-segment steering modes—Comfort, Normal and Sport. These smart steering modes are available across all powertrains, ensuring every driver can enjoy a controlled and responsive driving experience. The SUV also features custom drive modes—Zip, Zap and Zoom—specifically in the Petrol Automatic variants, each designed to enhance the driving dynamics on varying terrains by adjusting the vehicle's performance characteristics. Moreover, the XUV 3XO incorporates MTV-CL (Multi-Tuned Valve Concentric Land) technology within the dampers.
Models and Pricing*
| Mahindra 3XO 1.2L MX (Manual) | R 254 999 |
| Mahindra 3XO 1.2L AX (Auto) | R 274 999 |
*Customers can visit their nearest Mahindra dealer from 20 September 2024 to test drive and even order their new XUV 3XO. Deliveries will start in the first week of October. The Mahindra 3XO is sold with a 5-year / 150 000 km mechanical warranty. MX models have a 3-year / 55 000 km service plan, and the AX models have a 5-year / 100 000 km service plan.
