Compact crossover with punch
Indian automaker Mahindra has become very well known for producing hardy and mechanically tough vehicles. The likes of the Scorpio and Pik Up are making a name for themselves globally as tough-as-nails workhorses that won't break down. Their vehicles may be mechanically hardy, but they weren't really known for making pretty cars, as style and design were not seen as necessary in their market.
Related: Mahindra 3X0 (2024) First Drive Review
Over recent years, Mahindra has sought to change that, releasing much more stylish and feature-filled vehicles that still have the mechanical prowess that the brand has become known for but are now also much more palatable for the suburban family. One of the latest vehicles to be painted with said brush is the brand-new Mahindra 3X0 compact crossover SUV, and we spent a week with this amazing little vehicle that punches well above its weight.
Styling
The front end of the 3X0 is very appealing with its solid grille and large badge bookended by c-shaped LED DRLs and projector headlights. The gloss black A, B, and C pillars blend seamlessly into the gloss black roof, which also sports a large panoramic sunroof, giving the whole package a floating roof effect. The bi-tone paintwork highlights the already bright paintwork, with our test unit sporting the Citrine Yellow option. Down the side is a set of 17" diamond-cut alloy wheels and chunky plastic cladding. Pop around the rear end, and you are greeted by a blunt rear end with prominent Mahindra badging and LED infinity taillights.
The Drive
The three-cylinder engine has a throaty burble, giving the 3X0 sporty aspirations. It is the only turbo-charged vehicle in the segment, giving it another up against its competitors. The suspension is supple but not soft and soaks up the undulations of our roads. There are three drive modes: Zip, Zap, and Zoom, which are Eco Normal and Sport. Eco will save you fuel by changing throttle inputs and gear changes. Zap (Normal) gives you a neat blend of the upper and lower performance curves, while Zoom(Sport) allows for some spirited driving, but it will affect your fuel economy.
Performance
Under the bonnet is a 3-cylinder, 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Power figures are at a healthy 82kW and 200Nm, which means the 3X0 can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in under 10 seconds and has a top speed of 175km/h. It offers a dynamic drive from a compact package with light steering and a tight turning circle.
Space and Comfort
Interior space is ample for a compact crossover with plenty of space for 5 adults with sufficient leg, shoulder, and headroom. The Skyroof allows for extra light, making the interior feel even larger. The top-spec AX7L has an impressive spec list including:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 10.25-inch infotainment system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Leatherette seats
- Harman Kardon sound system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Wireless charging
- Six-way adjustable driver’s seats
- Cooled glove box
- 65 W USB-C charging point
- electronic parking brake with Auto Hold
- Harmon Kardon Premium Audio
- Amplifier and sub-woofer
Safety
The Mahindra 3X0 boasts a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating and features Level 2 ADAS, 360-degree cameras, ISoFix and blind-spot monitoring, and 6 airbags.
Fuel Consumption
Despite its sporty aspirations in Zoom mode, the 3X0 is claimed to return 6.5 L/100km. Our combined cycle testing hovered around 7.2 L/100km, but some careful driving in Eco mode (Zip) saw us drop down to 5.9 L/100km.
Price
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T MX2 manual | R 254 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T MX3 manual | R 274 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T MX2 Auto | R 274 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T MX3 Auto | R 294 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T AX5 manual | R 319 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T AX5 Auto | R 344 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T AX5L Auto | R 374 999 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T AX7L Auto | R 404 999 |
All Mahindra 3X0 models are sold with a 5-year / 150 000km warranty and a 5-year / 100 000km service plan.
The Verdict
The 3X0 is a cracking small city crossover that is stylish and well-equipped for family life. We found some issues around the rear end, with a dumpy rear-end styling and a silly boot lid release button hidden in a highly hard-to-reach place. Besides that, the 3x) is a fantastic drive, and we love the interior design. If you are in the market for a compact family crossover that won't break the bank, give the Mahindra 3X0 a chance; you won't be disappointed!
