Mahindra’s XUV 3XO is making waves in the Australian small SUV market, offering a compelling blend of affordability and surprising features. After three months of real-world testing, this review assesses whether the XUV 3XO lives up to its promise as a cut-price daily driver.
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Mahindra’s History in Australia
Mahindra isn’t new to the Australian market; it first appeared in the 1990s with modernized versions of the iconic Willys CJ-3B Jeep. The brand built its reputation on rugged Pik-Up utes before expanding into SUVs with models like the Scorpio and XUV700. The XUV 3XO represents Mahindra’s latest push into the competitive compact SUV segment.
Simple Lineup, Focused Approach
The XUV 3XO comes in two trims – AX5L and AX7L – both powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic. This straightforward approach positions it directly against rivals like the Chery Tiggo 4 and GWM Haval Jolion, both known for aggressive pricing.
After over 5,000 kilometers behind the wheel, the XUV 3XO proves to be a surprisingly capable contender for budget-conscious buyers, though not without its quirks.
Pricing and Value
Mahindra offers national drive-away pricing for both variants. Everest White is the only no-cost color option, with all other finishes adding a $495 surcharge. The AX5L starts at an attractive price point, while the AX7L adds more features for a slight premium.
For comparison, the Chery Tiggo 4 starts at $23,990 drive-away for the Urban trim and $26,990 for the Ultimate. The XUV 3XO sits comfortably within this range, offering competitive value.
Interior: A Step Above Expectations
The interior of the XUV 3XO is where it truly shines. Both variants feature dual 10.25-inch digital screens – one for infotainment and another for the instrument cluster – with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The AX7L takes things further with black leatherette upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a powerful Harman Kardon sound system. The cabin feels well-built for the price, with soft-touch materials and a responsive infotainment system.
Notably, the XUV 3XO retains physical buttons for climate control, a welcome touch in an era of touchscreen-dominated interiors. Rear passengers benefit from air vents and USB charging points, often missing in this price bracket.
Performance and Driving Experience
The 1.2-liter engine delivers 82kW of power and 200Nm of torque. While not sporty, the powertrain is adequate for city driving, with a 0-60km/h time of 4.6 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine in its sweet spot, though highway overtaking may require more planning.
The XUV 3XO prioritizes urban usability over off-road capability. The ride is reasonably well-tuned for Australian roads, absorbing bumps without harshness. The idle stop-start system can be jerky at times, and some testers reported occasional false alarms from the front parking sensors.
Fuel economy averaged around 10L/100km during testing, higher than the manufacturer’s claim of 6.5L/100km. Real-world driving conditions, including hilly terrain, likely contributed to this difference.
Equipment Highlights
The AX5L trim includes 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, keyless entry, and a standard suite of safety features. The AX7L adds 17-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and the upgraded Harman Kardon audio system.
The inclusion of a 65W USB-C charger in the AX7L is a standout feature, capable of rapidly charging smartphones and even MacBooks. The premium audio system is another significant advantage, elevating the XUV 3XO above its Chery counterpart.
Safety and Reliability
The Mahindra XUV 3XO has yet to receive an ANCAP safety rating in Australia. However, standard safety features include six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Mahindra offers a seven-year, 150,000km warranty with seven years of roadside assistance. This provides peace of mind for buyers concerned about long-term reliability.
Running Costs and Maintenance
Mahindra’s warranty provides a strong base for reliability concerns. The XUV 3XO’s capped-price servicing is competitive, though specific costs have not been fully detailed in Australia.
Verdict
The Mahindra XUV 3XO is a compelling option for first-time car buyers or those seeking an affordable second vehicle. Its well-equipped interior, surprisingly refined ride, and competitive pricing make it a worthy contender in the budget SUV segment.
While not perfect, the XUV 3XO delivers exceptional value for money, particularly when compared to rivals like the Chery Tiggo 4. If you’re looking for a cheap and reliable car, the Mahindra XUV 3XO deserves a spot on your shopping list.
