When shopping for a subcompact SUV, discerning buyers look for a winning combination of style, features, safety and value. Launched in 2019, the Mahindra XUV300 aims to tick all those boxes and make a compelling case for itself in this highly competitive segment.
Based on the rugged SsangYong Tivoli platform, but thoroughly re-engineered by Mahindra for Indian conditions, the XUV300 brings a fresh design, modern amenities, and some segment-leading safety features to the table. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this plucky little SUV an attractive proposition.
Chic and Contemporary Styling
The XUV300 makes a confident first impression with its chiseled, contemporary design language. Mahindra has done a commendable job of giving the XUV300 its own distinct personality, while still retaining the muscular “cheetah inspired” taut surfacing and athleticism that defines their larger XUV500 sibling.
The front is characterized by a multi-slat chrome grille, aggressively styled bumpers with a faux skid plate, and angular headlamps with LED daytime running lights that give it a high-tech face.
In profile, the rising belt line, strong haunches over the wheel arches, and a floating roof effect courtesy blacked out C-pillars give it a dynamic stance. The jaunty, rising window line and subtle crease over the rear wheels are details derived from the XUV500.
Wraparound two-part tail lamps and a well integrated roof spoiler complete the look at the rear. Overall dimensions are compact, but the XUV300 has a wide track and generous 180mm of ground clearance which gives it a planted, confident road presence.
Well-Appointed, Spacious Interiors
Step inside and the XUV300 greets you with premium-feeling, well appointed interiors that would not feel out of place in a vehicle a segment above. The dual-tone black and beige treatment, combined with piano black and satin silver accents, and an understated texture pattern on the dashboard looks classy and modern. Material quality and fit and finish are a clear step above what we have traditionally seen from Mahindra products, and are among the best in class.
Despite its subcompact dimensions, the XUV300 offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom, headroom and shoulder room for five adult occupants. This can be attributed to the vehicle’s generous width and thoughtful interior packaging.
The seats are well cushioned and supportive, with a high seating position that affords a commanding view out. Rear seat occupants will also appreciate the flat floor which makes the middle seat more usable. Boot space is a healthy 259 liters, expandable to 1455 liters with the 60:40 rear seats folded.
The XUV300 also comes well kitted with features, especially in the higher W8 and W8(O) trims. Standouts include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, auto climate control, push button start, cruise control, a smart key with keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, and leatherette upholstery. A height adjustable driver’s seat and a tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel allow for a comfortable driving position for a wide range of body types and sizes.
Refined, Efficient Powertrains
Mahindra offers the XUV300 with two modern, turbocharged powerplants – a 1.2-liter petrol and a 1.5-liter diesel. Both offer class leading power and torque figures. The 1.2 petrol puts out a healthy 108bhp and 200Nm, while the 1.5 diesel delivers an impressive 115bhp and 300Nm. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard, while the diesel is also offered with an optional 6-speed AMT (automated manual transmission).
The diesel impresses with its strong mid-range punch and relaxed cruising ability. It feels especially at home on the highway where it can lope along effortlessly in higher gears at low RPMs.
The refinement levels are surprisingly good too with well-contained vibrations and muted engine noise. The 1.2 petrol is an eager and refined performer as well, with a nice linear power delivery. It does need to be worked a bit harder than the diesel but never feels strained.
The XUV300 also strikes a good balance between ride and handling. The suspension is tuned on the firm side but rounded bumps and rough roads are dispatched with authority. Potholes and sharp edges don’t filter through as much as in some rivals.
The steering is light enough for easy city maneuverability but weighs up nicely as speeds rise. Body control is good too, with the XUV300 remaining stable and composed in corners and quick lane change maneuvers.
Safety First
One of the XUV300’s unique selling propositions is its laser focus on safety. Mahindra has engineered the XUV300 to meet the most stringent global safety standards, and this shows in the host of safety features it packs in as standard equipment across the range.
This includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts, all four disc brakes, corner braking control, a rear camera with dynamic guidelines, and front and rear parking sensors.
The range-topping W8(O) variant goes a step further by offering segment-first features like seven airbags (including a knee airbag for the driver), front parking sensors, and heated ORVMs. ESP with rollover mitigation and hill-start assist are also included.
All variants get robust all-around impact protection, crumple zones and a built in “survival cell” for occupants. In official GlobalNCAP crash tests, the XUV300 achieved a perfect 5-star adult occupant rating and a 4-star child occupant rating, making it one of the safest vehicles currently on sale in India across all segments.
Prices Mini Scorpio
The Mahindra XUV300 is competitively priced, starting at around ₹8 lakh for the base petrol and going up to ₹13 lakh for the fully-loaded diesel. For the money, you get a well-designed, well-equipped vehicle with robust mechanicals, plenty of features, and an overriding focus on occupant safety.
While it may not have the most spacious cabin or the largest boot in its class, it more than makes up for it with its well-rounded abilities, eager engines, sorted dynamics and premium interiors.
With the XUV300, Mahindra has demonstrated that it can build a thoroughly contemporary subcompact SUV that can stand wheel to wheel with the best in the business.
By focusing on quality, refinement, features and safety, rather than just value and low sticker prices, they have created a vehicle with appeal to both the heart and the head. The XUV300 richly deserves to be at the top of your consideration list for your next subcompact SUV purchase.