Mahindra 3XO First Drive Review

8 / 10

The Mahindra XUV3XO is a refreshed version of its predecessor - the XUV3OO. The variants also follow a new nomenclature, while the compact SUV gets new styling, additional features, and more. We delve into these details finding out if the changes make the XUV3XO better than the XUV3OO.

First up, the exterior changes. The XUV 3XO's redesigned fascia featuring new LED DRLs and headlamps is striking sporting a blacked-out grille with chrome accents and the new Mahindra logo. The silhouette is similar but it rides on upsized 17-inch dual-tone alloys that fill the wheel wells better. Its design isn't up to our liking and the carved-out wheel arches look odd too. The sub-four metre SUV also gets new C-shaped LED taillights connected by an LED light bar as is the norm in this segment. Besides, the new colour options add some flare to its otherwise overdone exterior.

8 / 10

Step inside and things will feel similar as the layout is like the XUV3OO and new equipment from the XUV4OO in its last update. So overall front visibility is good, rear visibility is narrow, the leatherette upholstery's quality feels upmarket, soft-touch upper dashboard looks and feels premium, there's good space inside with supportive seats, and it's an ergonomically sound cabin. However, the buttons (hazard, steering mode) on the dash are still flimsy, piano black accents are fingerprint magnets, and the ivory interior will be prone to soiling. Also, the seats are perforated but lack a ventilated function.

Nonetheless, the second row is commendable with a generous amount of legroom, adequate headroom, and manageable shoulder room for even three occupants. The flat floor, a bigger sunroof, and rear AC vents make the area feel more spacious and airy. The backrest is nicely reclined for comfort and gets a 60-40 split, which will be useful for expanding the new 364-litre space that's made deeper this time around. The loading area feels the same as the XUV3OO though with limited space to stack big bags on top of each other even without a parcel tray. We couldn't measure it but will do that soon.

Now, the additional features include the most promising changes namely the dual 10.25-inch screens for the