You know somebody has done something right when your really fussy sister-in-law takes a look at your test Mahindra XUV 3XO and then vanishes for a couple of hours only to return driving one – and with a big smile on her face.
It is just that kind of car. And, after a week of having it on review, it is not hard to see or feel the appeal that permeates the compact sport utility, launched in South Africa as the first outside of India and in time to be a celebrant in the company’s 20th year in the country.
Mahindra South Africa, which will be expanding its Durban assembly facility during 2025, is seen as an important market for the brand globally and, as such, input from local customers is included in the design research for new and revised models – including the 3XO.
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The XUV 3XO's debut in India saw 50 000 orders placed within an hour of the launch of what may – arguably – be the most progressive design to emerge from the company with the newcomer featuring a distinctive front grille, piano black accents and LED lighting. At the rear, infinity LED tail lamps stretch across the width of the vehicle while, inside, the cabin are soft-touch leatherette finishes, leather accents and ergonomic design elements that prioritise both style and comfort.
Mahindra has packed the XUV 3XO with technology, including dual 10,25-inch HD displays for infotainment and digital instrumentation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure seamless connectivity, while a 65 W USB-C charging point and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold add convenience.
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The audio experience is elevated by a Harman Kardon premium sound system, complete with a dedicated subwoofer and multiple sound modes. Additionally, Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) bring enhanced safety and convenience, offering features such as radar-based collision detection, automatic emergency braking and a 360-degree surround-view system.
The panoramic Skyroof and smart steering modes — Comfort, Normal and Sport — further enhance the driving experience, allowing customisation to suit different terrains and preferences.
Safety is at the forefront of the XUV 3XO's design, with 45% of its body constructed from ultra-high-strength steel. The vehicle is equipped with six crash bags, four disc brakes, ISOFIX child seat anchors, hill hold and hill descent control. A robust trident structure and energy absorption zones create a protective cocoon for occupants, setting new benchmarks in both active and passive safety.
Under the bonnet, the XUV 3XO is powered by Mahindra’s mStallion TCMPFi turbo-petrol engine, delivering 82 kW and 200 Nm of torque. This engine can be coupled with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AISIN automatic transmission – our test car fitted with the latter.
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At R344 999 the flagship AX7 derivative sits sits as a somewhat lonely player on our price ladder with its closest competitors being the Toyota Starlet Cross 1.8 Xi auto (R408 400) and the Honda BR-V 1.5 Trend (R409 990). On an item for item comparison, there is not a lot of difference between the three, the Mahindra however having slightly less power but more torque with equable claimed fuel consumption (5,6 l/100 km) .
It confirms its SUV status with a ground clearance of 201 mm and a wading depth of 305 mm, meaning it can be taken on lesser secondary roads without a problem.
In the actual test cycle the fuel consumption averaged 5,9 l/100 km – still not too shabby – and our foray onto some dirt roads proved it was capable of handling the conditions and still providing ride comfort for the occupants.
Overall, the ride quality is excellent and the vehicle remains stable and confident going around corners, easily cruising along at legal speeds with swift and efficient movements through the automatic gearbox to maintain momentum.
The XUV 3XO has a 5-year/150 000-kilometre mechanical warranty and a 5-year/100 00 km service plan.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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