Mahindra wants to disrupt compact SUV space with affordable new 3X0, priced from R249,999
Mahindra has put a fresh new spin on its long-standing XUV 300 compact SUV, treating it to a significant facelift and rebranding it as the XUV 3X0.
While the name might sound like something Elon Musk might have called his 30th child, the rebrand ushers in a more comprehensive model line-up with high-value pricing starting at R254,999, which is around R16,000 less than the opening bid for the outgoing XUV 300.
Mahindra refers to the new entrant as a “segment disruptor”, with safety features like six airbags and ESP stability control standard across the board, while the flagship model, which costs R404,999, boasts some truly premium features like the largest Panoramic Skyroof in its class, Harman Kardon sound system and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving technology.
While the XUV 300’s basic shell remains, the new model boasts fresh front and rear styling, while the cabin - now boasting dual screens - has been given a complete overhaul. Of course, the vehicle had good bones to start with, having been the first-ever to receive five stars in the #SaferCarsForAfrica crash testing programme.
The one downside is that a diesel engine is no longer offered, but the Mahindra 3X0 still punches well above its weight within its price category with a standard 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine that offers 82kW and 200Nm.
The engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
For the record, the Mahindra XUV 3X0 measures a shade under four metres, offering boot space of up to 364 litres and boasts an impressive ground clearance of 201mm, which is more akin to an SUV than a crossover.
A walk through the model range
The Mahindra XUV 3X0 is available in five model grades: MX2, MX3, AX5, AX5L and AX7L.
The MX2 base version rolls on 16-inch steel wheels, and also ships with a 9.0-inch (22.8cm) infotainment system, steering wheel controls, remote keyless entry, steering wheel controls, rear aircon vents, rear parking sensors, six airbags and ESP stability control.
The MX3 adds ‘Versa’ wheel covers, cruise control, single pane sunroof, wireless phone charger and a larger 10.2-inch (26cm) infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and wired Apple CarPlay.
Things get more serious when you opt for the AX5, which has 16-inch Diamond Cut alloy wheels, Bi-LED projector headlights, dual zone climate control, push-button start, height-adjustable driver’s seat, auto headlights and wipers, leather covered steering wheel and a Twin HD (26cm x 2) digital cluster and infotainment screens, including online navigation and reverse camera.
The AX5 L adds to that ‘Level 2’ advanced driver assistance systems, 360-degree surround view monitor, auto dimming rear view mirror, electronic parking brake and a cooled glove compartment.
Then we get to the flagship AX7 L, which takes things to the next level with 17-inch Diamond Cut alloys, Skyroof, Harman Kardon Premium Audio with Amplifier and Subwoofer, front park assist system and synthetic leather seats, with soft-touch trim on the dashboard and door panels.
Deliveries for the new Mahindra XUV 3X0 have already started, and the vehicle is sold with a five-year or 150,000km mechanical warranty. The MX versions come with the three-year/55,000km service plan, while AX owners receive a 5-year/100,000km plan.
Mahindra XUV 3X0 Pricing (October 2024)
- 1.2T MX2 manual - R254,999
- 1.2T MX2 auto - R274,999
- 1.2T MX3 manual - R274,999
- 1.2T MX3 auto - R294,999
- 1.2T AX5 manual - R319,999
- 1.2T AX5 auto - R344,999
- 1.2T AX5 L auto - R374,999
- 1.2T AX7 L auto - R404,999
IOL