22.2.19

Mahindra XUV 300 launched

Mahindra's latest attempt at the sub-4 metre SUV segment in India, the XUV300, is here. Priced between Rs.7.9 lakh and Rs.12 lakh (ex-showroom India), the XUV300 is available with both petrol and diesel engine options, and packs a lot of segment-first features. Although it is more expensive than the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Ford EcoSport and the Tata Nexon, the XUV300 does come with a lot of kit right from the base variant. For instance, the base W4 variant gets all-LED tail lamps, rear disc brakes, electric tailgate release, all-four power windows, adjustable headrests for all passengers, and more.

Based on the X100 platform that also underpins the SsangYong Tivoli, the XUV300 is a well designed and robust sub-4 metre SUV. While it is significantly shorter than its South Korean cousin, it sports the longest wheelbase in its segment. However, with a boot space usually seen on hatchbacks these days, the space inside could have been utilised a little better.

The XUV300 packs seven airbags and a host of other safety features like hill start assist, traction control, and electronic stability control too. It also gets front parking sensors, which is usually seen only on premium and luxury SUVs.

Mahindra has loaded the XUV300 with a lot of creature comforts as well. It gets dual-zone climate control (another segment-first feature), an electrically operated sunroof and steering modes.

Powering the XUV300 are the torquiest petrol and diesel engines in the segment. The 1.5-litre diesel engine is from the Marazzo and churns out 115PS of power and 300Nm of peak torque. The 1.2-litre petrol engine, on the other hand, makes 110PS and 200Nm. Both engines come mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. While there is no automatic option available at the moment, Mahindra could offer the XUV300 with it later.

With the XUV300's pricing, Mahindra has made its best effort yet at cracking the sub-4 metre SUV segment. However, the lack of an automatic variant at launch and a cramped boot space could prove to be deal-breakers for some prospective buyers.

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