2019 Mahindra XUV300
Inspired by Europe, toughened up for India, stress-tested in South Africa. The world-beating Mahindra XUV300 is good to look at, great to drive, full of features, but easy on the pocket at the showroom and at the pump.
This brand new compact crossover was launched this year for the super-competitive Indian market. The XUV300 is based on the platform of the European-spec SsangYong Tivoli but heavily modified for Indian conditions and market needs. Prior to production, it was wind-tunnel tested at Pininfarina in Italy. Before its South African launch earlier this year, the XUV300 passed a stress test at Armskor’s Gerotek facility in Pretoria.
The Mahindra XUV300 is a looker, with a tall, broad stance and floating roof design. It features, projector headlights with distinctive daytime running lights and striking LED taillights.
The interior simply blows away the competition. Leather upholstery, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and leather-covered multi-function steering wheel create a great first impression. The steering wheel has three modes that regulate how it feels. Dual-zone climate control, cruise control, glass sunroof and auto lights and wipers up to the ante. Full-colour touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make the trip more exciting. Four speakers and two tweeters give you surround-sounds mellifluous.
There is plenty of space front and back, with the rear seats benefiting from the slightly wider car. The back seats fold down 40/60 to allow more flexible storage.
There are four models of XUV300 to choose from. These consist of two trim levels: the more affordable W6 and top range W8. Each comes with the option of two engine types: the 1.5-liter turbo diesel at 85kW and 300Nm torque, and the 1.2-liter petrol at 81kW and 200Nm. Transmission is a six-speed manual. Mahindra claims fuel consumption for the diesel at 4.8 litre/100km.
Safety features heavily in the XUV300. The W8 models boast seven airbags, electronic stability program and rollover mitigation, as well as ABS with electronic brake distribution. It has front and rear parking sensors and a rear camera with adaptive guidelines. Hill hold assist and heated mirrors help keep you going forward and see behind you. World standard ISOFIX child seat anchors will keep your children safe.
Mahindra vehicles enjoy a well-earned reputation for cost-effective, rugged dependability. The XUV300 ads style and lifestyle flair to that great offering. With an entry-level price of only R245 000* and the top-range diesel model starting at R320 00, the Mahindra XUV300 is a must-look if you consider buying in this market segment. Book your test drive here.
*Prices are accurate at the date of posting.
