Mahindra XUV 300: Our Indian compact SUV market has levels of competition like almost nowhere in the world, and the Mahindra XUV300 has made its niche in the market.

Pitched in the sub-4-meter, a premium vehicle that combines performance, class defining safety, and first-in-segment features, makes the XUV300 perfectly balanced.

Based on the SsangYong Tivoli platform, the second-generation XUV500 represents Mahindra’s expanding capability to develop stylish, urban- focussed SUVs targeted at young car buyers and families.

Muscular and Urban Styling

The bold attitude of the Mahindra XUV300 is expressed in its aggressive front-stance.

The front gets nice looking projector headlamps with DRLs, a bulging bonnet and a unique looking grille which mingles with Mahindra’s design language.

Those sticking-out wheel arches and diamond-cut alloys do enhance the sporty feel of the car and the two-tone roof and roof rails breathe out a sense of youthfulness.

From behind the bodylines are tight but the design is neat and balanced.

It may be shorter in length (because of the sub-4m rules), but the XUV300 isn’t small at all and feels larger than most of its competition, thanks to its wide body and solid construction.

Roomy interior with various high-tech features

That same upmarket theme progresses when you get into the XUV300.

The cabin features a dual-tone dashboard, silver highlights and soft touch materials on the higher trim levels.

With its wide and supportive seats and commanding driving position, SUV lovers will at least enjoy riding in it.

I was surprisingly comfortable in the rear seat, which provides good leg and shoulder room for three adults.

The only compromise is in boot space, which at about 257 litres, is lesser than competing rivals like the Nexon or Sonet.

But that is balanced by the cabin practicality with a number of storage bins.

In features, the XUV300 is a gem. Top-spec W8(O) version, on the other hand, features a larger 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control (the Indian model is the country’s first in its segment to offer the feature), a sunroof, steering modes, cruise control, push-button start, and others.

Engines and Ride and Handling

The XUV300 gets the options of two engines — a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel.

The petrol motor produces 110 PS and 200 Nm, the diesel 117 PS and a strong 300 Nm making it one of the torquiest in its segment.

Both engines feel peppy, with the diesel being particularly good on the highway and under load up a hill.

The 6-speed manual transmission box is slick shifting and there is also an AMT on offer for those looking for a bit of more convenience in city driving.

And where the XUV300 absolutely shines is in how it drives. The suspension is well rounded for Indian roads—soft over potholes yet fluent in corners.

The steering has a very direct feel and a choice of weight via selectable modes, the result is a strong sense of intimacy with the road.

Safety – A Standout Highlight

Safety is one of the largest USPs of the Mahindra XUV300. It also got 5-star safety rating in Global NCAP crash tests – making it one of the safest sub-4m SUV in India.

The top end version gets six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, HSA, disc brakes on all four wheels and ISOFIX mounts.

Even lower models have basic safety provision as standard, which makes it a sensible car for families.

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Mileage and Value

The XUV300 diesel returns around 20 km/l while the petrol gets about 17 km/l under mixed driving.

These aren’t bad numbers, but a few competitors some minor improvements have somewhat better efficiency.

The price ranges from about ₹8 lakh and go up to ₹14 lakh (ex showroom) based on the variant.

Pros

Great safety rating and sturdy constructed

Relatively strong diesel engine with good turning power

Mid offerings are packed with features

Ride quality is comfortable and handling is responsive

Spacious at rear with premium cabin feel

Cons

Limited boot room for an SUV of this size

Petrol, at higher speeeds doesn’t have outright punch

AMT doesn’t feel as smooth as a traditional torque converter automatic

Top model lacks wireless charging or ventilated seats

Mahindra XUV 300: Verdict

The Mahindra XUV300 is one of the most stable compact SUVs in India.

With excellent safety, strong performance and a feature-loaded cabin, it appeals to buyers who seek more than mere fuel economy and style.

It’s not got the chunkiest boot, or the flashiest infotainment screen but where it counts – comfort, drivability and confidence – the XUV300 doesn’t disappoint.