Design: Aggressive, Modern, and Premium

The Mahindra XUV 3XO makes a powerful statement with its aggressive and contemporary design. It has a commanding road presence, thanks to its class-leading width of 1821mm and a long 2600mm wheelbase. The front is dominated by a piano-black finished grille, flanked by new Bi-LED projector headlamps and signature C-shaped LED DRLs. The athletic stance is complemented by R17 diamond-cut alloy wheels and a generous 201mm ground clearance. At the rear, the connected Infinity LED Tail Lamp gives it a distinctive and upmarket look. Color options are vibrant, with choices like Citrine Yellow and Deep Forest, available in both single and dual-tone finishes.

The premium story continues inside. The XUV 3XO boasts a cabin that feels like it belongs in a segment above, featuring a first-in-segment soft-touch leatherette dashboard and door trims. The centerpiece is the dual-screen layout with a 26.03cm HD infotainment system and a matching 26.03cm full digital cluster. Luxury is further enhanced by premium leatherette seats and the expansive Skyroof™ (panoramic sunroof), creating an airy and sophisticated ambiance. With a practical 364L boot and standard 60:40 split rear seats, it balances flair with functionality. Compared to the Tata Nexon’s coupe-like profile, the 3XO offers a more traditional yet muscular SUV stance, and its interior quality and feature list significantly raise the bar against the more pragmatic Maruti Brezza.

Performance: Best-in-Class Power and Refined Automatics

The XUV 3XO offers a powertrain for every driving style, headlined by the segment’s most powerful engine. The 1.2L TGDi turbo-petrol produces an exhilarating 130 PS (96 kW) and 230 Nm of torque, promising spirited acceleration. It is complemented by a capable 1.2L TCMPFi turbo-petrol (111 PS, 200 Nm) and a torque-rich 1.5L turbo-diesel (117 PS, 300 Nm). Transmission options are modern and versatile, including a 6-speed manual, a smooth 6-speed torque converter automatic (for TGDi), and a 6-speed AMT (AutoSHIFT+). The inclusion of a proper torque converter addresses a key demand for refinement in automatic variants.

To further tailor the driving experience, the 3XO comes with three drive modes—Zip, Zap, and Zoom—that alter throttle response and power delivery. It also features first-in-segment Smart Steering Modes (Comfort, Normal, Sport) that adjust steering feedback. The suspension, featuring a McPherson strut front and twist-beam rear, is tuned for a balance of comfort and confident handling, aided by the wide track and long wheelbase. This combination ensures the XUV 3XO is not just quick in a straight line but also stable and engaging through corners, setting a new dynamic benchmark in its class.

Fuel Efficiency: Power with Practicality

While the XUV 3XO prioritizes performance, it doesn’t sacrifice efficiency. ARAI-claimed figures are impressive, with the petrol variants delivering between 18.0 to 20.1 kmpl and the diesel achieving up to 21.2 kmpl, depending on the powertrain and transmission combination. Real-world figures are expected to be practical, with petrol engines likely providing 12-16 kmpl in mixed conditions, while the diesel could return a commendable 16-20 kmpl. The 42-litre fuel tank allows for a respectable range of 600-800 km, making it a capable companion for long-distance journeys. While running costs will be higher than an EV alternative like the Nexon.ev, the 3XO offers a compelling balance of performance and economy for an internal combustion engine vehicle.

Technology: A Cabin from a Segment Above

Technology is where the XUV 3XO truly shines, offering a suite of features that embarrasses rivals. The dashboard is dominated by twin 26.03 cm HD screens for infotainment and the driver’s display, creating a seamless, high-tech cockpit. The infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, integrated with Adrenox Connect, which offers over 80 connected features. This includes remote functions like starting the engine and AC, vehicle tracking, and geo-fencing. The system also has built-in Amazon Alexa for voice commands. Entertainment is handled by a 7-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system with multiple sound modes. Convenience is covered with a wireless charger and a powerful 65W USB-C fast charging port. To top it all, the top-spec AX7 L variant brings Level 2 ADAS, including adaptive cruise control and smart pilot assist, a feature unheard of at this price point.

Safety: Setting the Benchmark with 5 Stars

Mahindra has made safety non-negotiable with the XUV 3XO. It has achieved a 5-star BNCAP rating for both adult and child occupants, making it one of the safest vehicles in India. The brochure highlights 35 standard safety features. Key among these are 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and all 4 disc brakes, which are standard from the base MX1 variant onwards. Further bolstering its credentials are features like ISOFIX child seat anchors, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a Blind Spot Monitor. The top-tier AX7 L variant adds a 360° surround-view camera, a first-in-segment Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, and the comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite. This commitment to safety across the variant lineup is a significant differentiator and a major selling point.

Comfort: First-in-Class Luxury and Space

The XUV 3XO excels in providing a comfortable and luxurious cabin experience. The standout feature is the first-in-segment panoramic Skyroof™, which floods the cabin with light and airiness. This is complemented by another segment-first: dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing the driver and co-passenger to set individual temperatures. Rear passengers are also well-catered for with standard rear AC vents from the base variant. The cabin is the widest in its class, and the long wheelbase ensures ample legroom and shoulder room for all occupants. Comfort is further enhanced by features like premium leatherette seats, a cooled glovebox with illumination, a front armrest with storage, and passive keyless entry with a push-button start system.

Variants and Value: A Trim for Every Need

Mahindra offers the XUV 3XO in a wide array of variants, starting from the MX series and going up to the top-spec AX series. The MX1 (from ₹7.49 Lakh) sets a high bar for base models with 6 airbags and ESC as standard. The mid-range AX5 (from ₹10.69 Lakh) is a value-sweet-spot, adding the twin HD screens, diamond-cut alloys, and dual-zone AC. The luxury-focused AX7 (from ₹12.49 Lakh) brings in the premium Harman Kardon audio, leatherette seats, and ADAS features. The pinnacle is the AX7 L (from ₹13.99 Lakh), which is fully loaded with Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and the electronic parking brake. This extensive lineup ensures there’s a 3XO for nearly every budget, with a strong emphasis on safety and features right from the entry-level. Ownership is backed by a 3-year/unlimited km warranty and 3 years of free roadside assistance.

Comparisons: 3XO vs Nexon, Brezza, and Sonet

The XUV 3XO enters a fierce arena but comes exceptionally well-armed. Against the Tata Nexon, both are 5-star rated and feature-rich, but the 3XO pulls ahead with its more powerful TGDi engine, a proper torque converter automatic, and exclusive features like a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone AC. The Maruti Brezza is a pragmatic choice known for fuel efficiency and reliability, but it can’t match the 3XO’s sheer power, premium interior feel, or advanced tech like Level 2 ADAS. The Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue are strong on features and powertrain options, but the 3XO outmuscles their turbo-petrol engines and offers a more spacious cabin thanks to its superior width and wheelbase. Ultimately, the 3XO’s combination of class-leading performance and safety sets it apart from all key rivals.

Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View

Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations