A Small SUV with big intentions
In a segment bursting with options, Mahindra’s new XUV 3XO arrives as a bold and well-equipped contender. A facelifted evolution of the XUV300, the 3XO pairs a familiar subcompact silhouette with premium appointments, up-to-date tech, and practical performance—all underpinned by extensive local testing across New Zealand’s varied terrain.
A Compact SUV with Serious Cred
The XUV 3XO sits on the proven X100 platform, shared with the KGM (formerly SsangYong) Tivoli. Though compact—just under 4 metres in length—it stacks up well against key competitors like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Toyota Corolla Cross. In fact, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s larger than it is once inside.
Our test included two models: the high-spec AX7L, and the more modest AX5L, the latter disguised in camouflage and towing a trailer laden with sandbags. This drive from Mahindra NZ’s Manukau base to Kinloch near Taupō, and back again, gave a full taste of what this small SUV can do (solo and fully loaded) and in Zip, Zap and Zoom driving modes.
Design & Cabin Comfort
First impressions count, and the 3XO delivers an immediate sense of space. Despite its compact footprint, the interior is remarkably roomy. There’s enough rear legroom for two full-sized adults, while the 364-litre boot is more than adequate for everyday duties.
The AX7L cabin leans upscale, with high-gloss black finishes, chrome details, and leather-style surfaces across the dash and doors. Dual 10.25-inch screens—one for infotainment and one for the instrument cluster—deliver a clean, modern interface. The system is intuitive to use and visually sharp, while the inclusion of a panoramic “skyroof” on the AX7L adds a touch of drama and daylight.
Even the lower-spec AX5L model gets plenty of kit, including a sunroof, wireless smartphone mirroring, ADAS 2, and 6 airbags—rare finds in this price bracket.
Performance & Powertrain
On paper, the 3XO’s 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine (82 kW/200 Nm) won’t drop jaws. But mated to a 6-speed Aisin-sourced torque converter automatic, it’s better in real-world use than you might expect. Around town and on the motorway—yes, even at 110 km/h past Hamilton—the powertrain felt up to task. The transmission shifts smoothly and suits the car’s relaxed, urban-friendly demeanor.
What surprised us was the composure under load. Taking over the AX5L with a 1000 kg’s of extra sandbag weight across the car and trailer, we effectively put this small SUV in an extreme use case. While it was naturally slower out of corners, the little Mahindra showed admirable poise and handled the tow without stress or excessive bounce. Interestingly, the suspension seemed even more settled under load.
Back in the unladen AX7L (and in Zoom), the 3XO was able to stretch its legs through the central North Island’s curves. Steering is lightly weighted but accurate, and body roll is well-controlled—encouraging a bit of spirited driving. Despite pushing the small engine, the cabin stayed quiet with minimal wind or road noise, and grip levels remained reassuring.
Technology & Safety
Mahindra hasn’t held back on features. Both AX5L and AX7L come equipped with Level 2 ADAS, offering lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and more. Crucially, the ADAS has been calibrated for New Zealand roads, following 40,000 km of local testing across cities, gravel roads, highways, and trailer towing scenarios.
Safety credentials are also strong. The 3XO earned a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, aligned with global standards, and includes standard equipment like 6 airbags, a 360-degree camera (AX7L), and front parking sensors.
Efficiency & Warranty
Mahindra claims 6.5 L/100km combined fuel use, and our drive saw a real-world return of 5.7 L/100km (17.6 km/L)—remarkably efficient given the route, payload, and frequent bursts of acceleration. That’s diesel-like economy from a small petrol triple.
Every 3XO is backed by a 7-year/150,000 km warranty, adding peace of mind to an already attractive value proposition.
The 2024 Mahindra XUV 3XO is a legitimate rethink of what a sub-\$30K SUV can offer. It blends well-judged practicality with real-world capability and a generous feature list, particularly in AX7L trim. The fact that it feels solid on the road, even under stress, only strengthens its appeal.
