Mahindra’s entry-level offering, the XUV 3XO, is now available with a factory-fitted CNG kit in certain trim levels. This allows the XUV 3XO to directly rival CNG variants of the Tata Nexon and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. We take a look at how Mahindra’s first non-commercial car with a factory-fitted CNG kit fares against its competitors, spec sheet to spec sheet.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs rivals: Dimensions
The XUV 3XO is slightly shorter overall than the Nexon and Brezza, but ekes out the longest wheelbase and is the widest compact SUV here. In terms of height, the XUV 3XO falls just short of the Maruti, and all three SUVs offer 16-inch alloy wheels. Coming to boot space, though, the XUV 3XO lags substantially behind its rivals, despite having a similar boot-mounted twin-cylinder setup to the Nexon. The Brezza, meanwhile, has the highest boot space here due to its underbody CNG tank setup.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs rivals: Engine and gearbox
Where CNG cars are usually weaker in CNG mode, the XUV 3XO flips the script by outputting identical power and torque figures in its petrol and CNG modes – Mahindra has achieved this by optimising the turbocharger calibration and ECU mapping. Therefore, the XUV 3XO CNG is the most powerful compact SUV here, beating the Nexon CNG by 11hp and 30Nm, and the Brezza CNG by a considerable 23hp and 78.5Nm margin.
That said, the Brezza CNG does claw a point in its favour by offering the biggest engine here and an additional cylinder over its rivals, which could make the driving experience feel smoother and more refined. Another big upside to the Brezza CNG is its segment-best claimed fuel efficiency. The XUV 3XO trails just behind the Brezza on the mileage front, while the Nexon CNG sports the lowest claimed figure.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs rivals: Price
*Excluding premiums for dual-tone paint finishes and/or cosmetic packages.
The XUV 3XO CNG carries the highest starting price compared to its rivals, with the Nexon CNG undercutting it by Rs 1.54 lakh and the Brezza CNG by Rs 59,000. Looking at top-spec variant prices, the order sees a rejig, with the Tata SUV commanding the highest price due to a broader spread of variants. At Rs 13.42 lakh, the range-topping variant of the Nexon CNG is Rs 1.15 lakh pricier than the XUV 3XO CNG’s equivalent version, and Rs 1.82 lakh more expensive than that of the Brezza CNG.
All prices are ex-showroom, India.
Uday Singh
Dipan Sur
Glenn Noronha
