The Mahindra XUV 3XO has quickly gained traction in the Indian compact SUV market. Positioned as the successor to the popular XUV300, it comes with multiple engine and gearbox options to cater to a wide range of buyers. Among its variants, the AX5 trim with the 1.2-litre MPFi turbo-petrol engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission has emerged as the most demanded.
Priced at Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom), the AX5 offers a strong balance of features, performance, and value. In this review, we examine why this particular variant is attracting the most attention and how it stacks up against rivals.
Engine and Powertrain Options
The Mahindra XUV 3XO is offered with three engine choices:
- 1.2-litre MPFi turbo-petrol (entry-level, focus of this review)
- 1.2-litre TGDi direct-injection turbo-petrol (more powerful, available in higher trims)
- 1.5-litre turbo-diesel (offered with manual and automatic options)
The AX5 trim uses the MPFi turbo-petrol unit that produces 111hp and 200Nm. While it makes less power than the TGDi version (which delivers 20hp and 30Nm more), the MPFi engine proves to be smooth, refined, and capable in real-world driving.
Summary Table
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Variant Reviewed | Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | Rs 11 lakh |
| Engine | 1.2-litre MPFi Turbo-Petrol |
| Power & Torque | 111hp, 200Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual |
| Acceleration (0–100 km/h) | 11.58 seconds |
| Mileage | 10.4 km/l (city), 14.9 km/l (highway) |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ESP, hill-start assist |
| Boot Capacity | 295 litres |
| Official Website | Mahindra XUV 3XO |
Exterior Design and Features
The AX5 variant distinguishes itself from the top-spec trims through some subtle differences:
- Fog lamps are absent, replaced with black casings.
- Retains LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), LED headlamps, and chrome grille inserts.
- Equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels carried over from the outgoing XUV300 (top variants get 17-inch wheels).
- Features include roof rails, rear spoiler, connected tail-lamps, rear wiper and washer.
- Lacks a variant badge on the boot.
Overall, the AX5 offers a sporty and stylish look, maintaining most of the visual appeal of higher trims while keeping costs lower.
Interior and Comfort
Cabin Design
The AX5 features a dual-tone black-and-white cabin. While the white finish gives the interior a premium and airy feel, it requires extra care to keep clean. The dashboard includes piano black inserts, silver highlights, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, although soft-touch plastics are reserved for higher variants.
Seating and Space
- Front seats: Black fabric upholstery that is more practical than leatherette, especially in Indian conditions. These are breathable and low-maintenance, but slightly small for larger occupants.
- Rear seats: Spacious and supportive, with enough room for three adults.
- Boot space: At 295 litres, it is smaller than rivals, though the absence of a full-size spare wheel has freed up some extra storage.
Features
The AX5 is generously equipped, making it a strong mid-variant option:
- Twin 10.2-inch digital screens (infotainment and instrument cluster).
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Single-pane sunroof.
- Wireless charging.
- Dual-zone climate control.
- Auto LED headlamps, power-folding mirrors, and rear AC vents.
- Safety features: 6 airbags, ESP, hill-start assist, reversing camera.
Performance and Driving Experience
The 1.2-litre MPFi turbo-petrol engine impresses with its refinement. Despite being a three-cylinder unit, it feels smooth and quiet.
- Power delivery: Noticeable turbo lag below 2,000 rpm, but once past that, acceleration is strong and urgent.
- Performance band: Feels most effortless between 2,000–4,500 rpm.
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 11.58 seconds, significantly quicker than the XUV300’s 12.80 seconds.
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual is smooth but has long throws, less slick than rivals.
- Clutch: Light, but long travel may take some getting used to.
Performance Data
| Test | XUV 3XO 1.2 MPFi 6MT | XUV300 1.2 MPFi 6MT |
|---|---|---|
| 0–60 km/h | 5.07s | 5.29s |
| 0–100 km/h | 11.58s | 12.80s |
| 20–80 km/h (3rd gear) | 10.74s | 11.65s |
| 40–100 km/h (4th gear) | 13.38s | 13.96s |
Fuel Efficiency
In real-world tests, the XUV 3XO AX5 with manual transmission returned:
- 10.4 km/l in the city.
- 14.9 km/l on highways.
It also comes with automatic engine start-stop technology, which helps save fuel during idle periods.
Ride and Handling
- Steering: Light and easy to use, with selectable driving modes to alter weight and resistance. However, these modes do not add sportiness.
- Suspension: Well-tuned for comfort, even on bumpy roads.
- Weight: At 1,362 kg, the SUV feels planted but not overly heavy to handle.
Why the AX5 Is in Demand
The AX5 trim strikes the perfect balance of price, features, and performance. At Rs 11 lakh, it undercuts higher trims while still offering:
- A sunroof.
- Dual 10.2-inch displays.
- Wireless smartphone connectivity.
- Comprehensive safety equipment.
- A refined turbo-petrol engine.
For many buyers, the additional power and premium features of the TGDi-equipped higher trims do not justify the higher cost. This makes the AX5 the value-for-money sweet spot in the XUV 3XO lineup.
Conclusion
The Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 delivers an excellent combination of performance, features, and affordability. Its refined 1.2-litre MPFi turbo-petrol engine, spacious cabin, and premium features make it an attractive option for buyers who want more than the basics but do not wish to stretch to top-spec trims.
For buyers seeking a compact SUV under Rs 12 lakh with solid performance, features, and brand value, the AX5 trim stands out as a clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the price of the Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5?
The AX5 variant is priced at Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q2: Which engine does the AX5 trim use?
It comes with a 1.2-litre MPFi turbo-petrol engine producing 111hp and 200Nm.
Q3: Is the AX5 good for long drives?
Yes, with a highway mileage of 14.9 km/l and a comfortable cabin, it is suitable for long trips, although the 295-litre boot may feel small.
Q4: How does the AX5 differ from higher trims?
It misses out on fog lamps, soft-touch dashboard materials, larger wheels, and a few luxury features but retains most key equipment including dual displays, sunroof, and safety tech.
Q5: Why is the AX5 the most demanded variant?
It offers the best balance between price, features, and engine refinement, making it excellent value for money.
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