Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Skoda Kushaq: Real-world Cross-Segment Performance Comparison

The Mahindra XUV 3XO has just been launched in India with prices ranging between Rs 7.49 lakh and Rs 15.49 lakh. While some may be swayed by its fresh look and attractive feature package, it also comes packing quite the punch from its turbo-petrol engine. Considering that the 3XO’s prices overlap SUVs from a segment above, we take a look at whether its performance is enough to keep up with them. 

To find out the answer, we take the 3XO’s most powerful 130PS turbo-petrol engine and compare it with the smaller turbo-petrol (1-litre) mill of the Skoda Kushaq, which is considered as one of the dynamically poised SUVs of its segment. Place your bets!

Spec Check

Both the XUV 3XO and the Kushaq get a 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. However, the Mahindra has a higher displacement, which results in a higher output figure. That said, they are evenly matched in terms of their transmission options. 

Note that the Kushaq can also be had with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, which hasn’t been included in the test to give the 3XO some sort of chance at a win.

Performance test

*Kushaq was tested in wet weather conditions

You aren’t the only one to lose money on the Kushaq, given that it might have been the obvious choice for most people. But the disparity in the power outputs translates into the real-world and gives the Mahindra XUV 3XO a clear win over the Kushaq in the acceleration tests.

The difference is more than a second in the 0-100kmph test, but the Kushaq reels the 3XO back in the quarter mile test as the difference drops down to nearly half a second. However, the Kushaq triumphs over the 3XO when it comes to stopping first. It wins in both the 100-0kmph and 80-0kmph test, that too in the wet weather conditions!

Price and verdict

No wonder there is a significant price difference between the Skoda Kushaq and Mahindra XUV 3XO. They might appeal to two slightly different sets of people, but if you were wondering which Rs 15 lakh (approx) SUV is the quicker between the Skoda Kushaq and Mahindra XUV 3XO, you now have your answer.