Mahindra XUV300

Mahindra has done well to hide the XUV300’s Tivoli origins. At the same time, it has given the SUV a family look, in line with Mahindra’s current flagship, the XUV500. We see some interesting elements such as LED daytime running lamps, that are shaped like an inverted ‘L’, projector headlamps, as well as 17-inch machine-finished alloy wheels. There are LED elements in the taillamps as well, and it also packs in the essential SUV bits such as faux skid plates and dollops of rugged-looking cladding. There are some interesting colours on offer too, including a dark teal, a bright orange and a cherry red.

The cabin of the XUV300 is a direct lift from the SsangYong Tivoli. This means that the design, though slightly dated, is pleasant and straightforward. Mahindra has chosen a sombre beige-black colour scheme and peppered it with brushed aluminium accents. The result is a cabin that appears large and airy. It’s packed with tech too: on the XUV300 W8, you will get features such as an electric sunroof, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment system and more. Mahindra has left no stone unturned with regards to safety as well. The top-spec version will get 7 airbags, ABS with EBD and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Rear disc brakes, dual airbags and ABS is expected to be offered as standard across the range.

While Mahindra has not confirmed engine options officially, we believe the XUV300 will feature a 1.5-litre diesel engine and 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol motor. The diesel motor is the same unit we’ve seen under the hood of the Marazzo, and it makes a healthy 123PS of power and 300Nm of torque. Specs of the petrol motor are unknown as yet, but it’s expected to develop in the whereabouts of 115PS and 170Nm. Both these engines will come paired with a 6-speed manual initially. An automatic is likely to be offered at a later date. Interestingly, Mahindra has also confirmed that an electric version of the SUV is under works, and will be available by 2020.

The Mahindra XUV300 is expected to be offered in a total of four variants: W2, W4, W6 and W8. A detailed variant-by-variant feature breakdown is expected soon.

Maruti Vitara Brezza: The Brezza ticks the basics of punch, practicality and peace of mind. If you can bear the ridiculously long waiting periods, you’ll end up with a compact-SUV that won’t let you complain. But, in all probability, so will everybody else.

Ford EcoSport: The EcoSport is back with a vengeance. It looks like a small SUV (and not a big hatch), packs in a healthy amount of kit right from the base variant and has potent motors under the hood. And it’s got tons of swag. Deal?

Honda WR-V: There’s more to the WR-V than being a Jazz on steroids. While it retains the hatchback’s basics of space and functionality, it brings in the added advantage of a high ground clearance. It also gets a sunroof. Doesn’t everyone want a sunroof in their lives?

Tata Nexon: Among the best vehicles to roll out of a Tata factory, the Nexon comes very close to acing the compact-SUV game. The funky styling, big 350-litre boot and some segment-firsts like an activity key make it a formidable force in the segment.

This upcoming compact SUV looks promising enough to cause a serious flutter in the segment. If Mahindra gets the pricing spot on, there’s no stopping this from becoming a blockbuster!