The Mahindra XUV 3XO builds on the foundation of the XUV300 but adds an extra layer of appeal with its bold design, premium interior, and feature-rich package. It stands out with a more dramatic look, a more refined cabin, and a much-needed update to its feature list.

 

One of the biggest improvements is the six-speed automatic transmission, which makes the XUV 3XO smoother and more sophisticated to drive. However, while it excels in performance, it’s not the most practical city car. The rear seat isn’t the most spacious for families, and navigating city traffic may not be as easy. If you're considering the XUV 3XO, highway driving should be a key part of your plan, as this is where its performance and strong chassis truly shine.

 

Mahindra offers three engine options – a turbo petrol base variant, a high-performance turbo petrol, and a turbo diesel. The top-spec turbo petrol produces 128.73 BHP, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in this category. It’s an exciting engine that feels lively on the highway, delivering quick acceleration and an engaging drive.

 

The diesel variant, however, feels more balanced. While the petrol engine can sometimes feel eager and a bit impatient in city driving, the diesel offers a smoother and more composed drive. The automatic transmission works well across all variants, but if you opt for the manual diesel, be sure to test the clutch feel, as it can be slightly long, requiring some extra effort.

 

The suspension setup is on the firmer side, which is actually a good thing. It ensures the car remains stable even when fully loaded on a long trip. A softer setup would have made it bouncy over time, but Mahindra has found a good middle ground where it stays comfortable yet firm enough for a planted ride.

 

The XUV 3XO brings a more premium feel inside, with soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door pads. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a big step up from the previous 7-inch unit and now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, Mahindra still needs to fine-tune the infotainment alerts and notifications, as they can sometimes feel distracting while driving.

 

The SUV has a good mix of features, but it’s worth noting that some competitors offer certain extras that the 3XO lacks, like paddle shifters and a parcel tray. However, it does introduce features that many rivals don’t have, making it a well-balanced package overall.

 

The XUV 3XO has received a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, ensuring top-notch protection. It comes with Level 2 ADAS (camera + radar-based), offering better judgment of distances compared to camera-only systems. The chassis remains as strong as ever, providing confidence-inspiring stability.

 

The biggest question – should you buy the XUV 3XO? If you’re looking for a fun-to-drive SUV with strong performance, good features, and top-tier safety, the XUV 3XO is a solid option. It’s not an outright sporty SUV, but it delivers an enjoyable drive, especially on highways. If you’re primarily driving in the city, the top-spec turbo petrol might feel a bit too eager, but overall, the XUV 3XO is a well-rounded, impressive SUV that offers great value in its segment.