Mahindra’s latest crossover, the XUV300, is definitely a popular choice, because barely a year after it was launched, they are all over the place.
A big reason for the XUV300 having taken off so quickly must surely be the vehicle’s smart look.
Style-wise it compares well with direct rivals with an attractive nose and well-balanced overall shape.
The XUV300 really has none of the brand’s utilitarian traits which some of the lower-end bakkies and the boxy TUV 300 have. Even inside, this new crossover sports a modern layout with plenty of features and a decent finish right through.
Choices
Mahindra uses an easy-to-understand naming convention for its vehicles: the letter “W” followed by an even number, the higher of which means the higher-spec levels.
The XUV300 is available in W6 and W8 spec, with even the W6 model shipping standard with a 17-centimetre full-colour touch screen display, as well as steering wheel mounted controls.
The W8 model gets dual-zone climate control with three pre-set memory settings, keyless access with a start-stop button; Mahindra XUV300 ticks the right boxes automatic headlights, cruise control, a glass sunroof and a luxurious leatherette fabric for the upholstery (as opposed to the fabric on the W6).
For motivation, XUV300 buyers can choose between a 1,2-litre turbo-petrol or 1,5-litre turbo-diesel, both plants available in W6 and W8 trim.
The 1,5 turbo-diesel was an Engine of the Year (EOTY) winner in India and, while the turbo-charged 1,2 is just as lively, it’s this diesel plant that stands out.
Mated exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, this Indian EOTY champ features electrically controlled, variable geometry turbocharging to deliver 86kW and a healthy 300Nm of torque between 1 500 and 2 500rpm.
While the drop-off in performance once the needle passes the 3 500rpm mark is notable, the XUV300 in turbo-diesel guise is an eager performer, especially around town.
Safety
The Mahindra XUV300 in W6 specification level is equipped with ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, cornering braking control and discs on all four wheels.
It also has impact-sensing door locks and a high-mounted stop lamp in the rear spoiler. An emergency braking signalling system is fitted to all models, as are two front airbags and ISOFIX child anchors on the rear seats.
The W8 specification level adds five more airbags – side, curtain and a driver knee airbag to the list, totalling to a class-leading seven airbags, while also adding electronic stability (ESP) with rollover mitigation. The XUV300 W8 also adds warning lights on the front doors, hill-hold assistance, an antitheft alarm system and seatbelt reminders on all seats.
Add all those safety features up and there’s no reason for the Indian crossover to be regarded as “inferior” to similar vehicles from other brands.
Conclusion
Right through the XUV300 range, the crossover is priced lower than the competition, which is surely another big reason to include it on your list when shopping for a compact crossover.
It looks smart, comes with plenty of standard convenience, luxury and safety features, and both engine options are more than adequate for the job at hand.
An impressive five-year/150 000km warranty and a standard five-year/90 000km service plan also make it an attractive option.
What might be a problem for some buyers is the lack of an automatic transmission in the range and the XUV300’s tight boot, but that is for the prospective buyer to decide.
