Mahindra positioned its XUV3X0 crossover SUV as a heavy hitter in the budget segment. The spectrum in its range goes from decently specced to bells and whistles that would even surprise you. It's all a decent package and pushes forward, with momentum, the direction Mahindra is headed in, along with the other XUV vehicles and Scorpio N. Here's what we thought at the vehicle's launch.
Related: Mahindra XUV 3XO (2024) Review
A rather pokey 1.2-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine and even big component names like Aisin provide the automatic transmission. Some other stand-out features, such as the top-spec AX7L model, include a Harmon Kardon sound system, a mega-fast 65W USB charger, and Level 2 ADAS safety systems. Many features are on offer, but what cars can match up to the 3X0?
1. Citroën C3 Aircross - from R274 900
First up from the French side, we have the Citroen C3 Aircross. There's even a 7-seater option available. Other stand-out features include 6 airbags across the range with ESP and your choice of a 61kW /115Nm 1.2-litre engine or a more powerful turbocharged variant with 81kW /205Nm. Your transmission pairings are either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.
You can search AutoTrader for the latest C3 Aircross offerings
2. Hyundai Exter -from R269 900
The Exter is Hyundai's entry-level crossover, with styling similar to the old Matrix. It's boxy, modern, and has some similarities to the Grand i10. The Exter is powered by a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine making 61kW and 114Nm, and it can be paired with either a 5-speed manual or AMT (Automated Manual Transmission).
You can search AutoTrader for the latest Exter offerings.
3. Nissan Magnite - from R224 900
The Magnite was updated recently and features some new specs and features to make it more of a premium offering, though it remains in the budget realm. You can choose between a 1.0-litre non-turbo 3 cylinder making 53kW /96Nm or the turbocharged variant making 74kW /152Nm. Three transmissions are available: a 5-speed manual, AMT (Automated Manual Transmission), or CVT.
You can search AutoTrader for the latest Magnite offerings.
4. Suzuki Fronx - from R298 900
The Fronx has been a smash hit for Suzuki, offering good value and fun driving dynamics. It's powered by a 1.5-litre non-turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine making 77kW /138Nm and can be had in either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.
You can search AutoTrader for the latest Fronx offerings.
5. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT - from R269 900
Essentially a legacy continuation of the popular Tiggo 4 Pro, it offers all the flavour at a reasonable price. The LiT omits the turbocharger from the 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine but still produces a healthy 83kW /138Nm. Alternatively, you can choose the turbocharged variant that produces 108kW /210Nm with either a 5-speed manual or CVT.
You can search AutoTrader for the latest Tiggo 4 Pro LiT offerings.
