Looking for a Budget Family Car? Mahindra XUV 3XO Might Be Your Best Bet

The XUV 3XO has taken India’s compact SUV segment by storm. For budget-conscious families and first-time car buyers, this new offering from Mahindra is not only appealing in design but is also packed with features, safety, and practicality that make it one of the most value-rich family vehicles of 2025.

If you’ve been searching for a feature-loaded, safe, and stylish family car without stretching your budget, this comprehensive review reveals why the XUV 3XO might be the best choice.

Key Specifications at a Glance

SpecificationDetails
Starting Price₹7.49 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine Options1.2L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
TransmissionManual, 6-Speed Torque Converter Automatic (Petrol)
Infotainment SystemDual 10.25-inch Displays
Safety Features6 Airbags Standard, ESP, ISOFIX
RivalsTata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza

Why Budget-Conscious Buyers Are Choosing This Car

The XUV 3XO hits the sweet spot for Indian buyers who want premium features without crossing the ₹15 lakh mark. It’s designed with daily usability, family comfort, and modern tech in mind.

What Makes It Stand Out?

  • Feature-loaded base variants
  • First-in-segment panoramic sunroof
  • Strong safety package even in entry trims
  • Diesel engine availability
  • Connected car tech with OTA updates

These features are usually reserved for more expensive cars, but Mahindra brings them down to an affordable price point with the XUV 3XO.


Exterior Styling: Modern, Bold, and Family-Ready

The design language of the This Car gives it the presence of a more expensive SUV. The bold grille, signature X-shaped DRLs, and sculpted sides lend it a strong identity.

Exterior Highlights:

  • LED projector headlamps with DRLs
  • 3D connected LED tail lamps
  • Dual-tone roof options
  • Stylish alloy wheels (top trims)
  • Flush door handles in higher variants

Its design not only makes a statement but also improves aerodynamics and visibility, both of which matter in daily family driving.

Spacious and Comfortable Cabin

Step inside the This Car, and you’re greeted by a surprisingly premium layout for the price. The focus is clearly on practicality and comfort for both driver and passengers.

Interior Highlights:

  • Leatherette upholstery in higher trims
  • Flat-bottom steering wheel with mounted controls
  • Rear AC vents for second-row passengers
  • Adjustable headrests in all rows
  • Smart storage spaces and a cooled glovebox

With ample legroom and headroom, especially in the rear seat, the XUV 3XO is perfect for families of four to five members. The large panoramic sunroof in AX7 variants makes the cabin feel airy and open.

XUV 3XO Performance: Tuned for Family Comfort

The This Car offers two tried-and-tested powertrains:

  • 1.2L Turbo Petrol (110 PS / 200 Nm)
  • 1.5L Diesel (117 PS / 300 Nm)

The petrol variant gets a smooth 6-speed torque converter automatic, making it perfect for city driving. The diesel, meanwhile, offers robust torque for highways and longer trips—ideal for family road trips.

Real-World Performance:

  • Balanced ride quality over speed bumps and rough roads
  • Diesel offers great mileage (claimed 20+ km/l)
  • Petrol automatic is tuned for relaxed driving
  • Light steering makes urban driving easier

As per Autocar India’s review, the ride and handling balance is among the best in its class.

Safety Features: Designed with Family in Mind

The XUV 3XO takes safety very seriously. Every variant, including the base model, comes equipped with six airbags and electronic stability control.

Key Safety Features:

  • 6 airbags standard
  • ESP with rollover mitigation
  • ISOFIX child seat anchors
  • Rear parking sensors and camera
  • TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
  • Hill hold assist (in AT variants)
  • 360-degree camera (top trims)

Being based on the XUV300 platform—which scored 5 stars in Global NCAP—the XUV 3XO is expected to perform equally well in crash safety.

Infotainment and Connected Features

Mahindra has gone all out in terms of tech. The XUV 3XO features a twin-screen layout powered by Mahindra’s Adrenox connected car suite.

Technology Suite Includes:

  • 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment
  • 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Alexa voice control integration
  • Over-the-air updates
  • Remote vehicle tracking and geofencing

Whether you’re navigating school runs, weekend grocery trips, or long-distance travel, the connectivity in the XUV 3XO adds ease and peace of mind.

XUV 3XO Variants and Pricing: Something for Everyone

VariantPetrol MTPetrol ATDiesel MT
MX1₹7.49 lakh₹9.99 lakh
MX2 Pro₹8.99 lakh₹10.49 lakh₹10.99 lakh
AX5₹10.49 lakh₹11.99 lakh₹11.49 lakh
AX7 Luxury₹12.99 lakh₹13.99 lakh₹13.49 lakh

Even the base MX1 variant comes with essential safety and tech, making it an excellent choice for families on a tight budget.

How XUV 3XO Compares to Rivals

FeatureXUV 3XOTata NexonHyundai Venue
Starting Price₹7.49 lakh₹8.00 lakh₹7.94 lakh
Panoramic SunroofYes (AX7)NoNo
6 Airbags StandardYesNoNo
Diesel OptionYesYesNo
Connected Car FeaturesYesPartialYes

The XUV 3XO not only undercuts many rivals in pricing but also beats them on safety and tech—two areas that matter most to family car buyers.

Who Should Buy the XUV 3XO?

The XUV 3XO is an ideal choice for:

  • First-time car owners who want a modern, stylish, and safe vehicle
  • Budget-conscious families looking for maximum value under ₹15 lakh
  • Urban dwellers who need a compact yet premium SUV
  • Weekend travelers seeking a fuel-efficient diesel option

Whether you’re upgrading from a hatchback or buying your first car, the XUV 3XO fits perfectly into the modern Indian lifestyle.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Strong value across all variants
  • Rich safety features standard
  • Segment-first panoramic sunroof
  • Diesel option with great mileage
  • Connected car technology

Cons:

  • No diesel automatic option yet
  • Boot space is adequate, not segment-leading
  • Rear seat legroom could be better for tall passengers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the XUV 3XO a good family car?
Yes, with its strong safety features, spacious interior, and comfort-focused design, it is one of the best options for small families in 2025.

Does it offer value for money?
Absolutely. With features like six airbags, panoramic sunroof, and connected tech under ₹15 lakh, the XUV 3XO offers exceptional value.

What is the mileage of the XUV 3XO?
The petrol variant offers 16–17 km/l, while the diesel variant can deliver up to 21 km/l in real-world conditions.

Is it better than the Tata Nexon?
In terms of safety features, cabin tech, and pricing, the XUV 3XO does have a competitive edge over the Nexon.

Final Verdict: Is the Mahindra XUV 3XO the Budget SUV You Need?

The XUV 3XO is everything a modern Indian family could ask for—safe, stylish, tech-loaded, fuel-efficient, and easy on the wallet. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or someone looking for a practical second car, the XUV 3XO brings more value to the table than many of its rivals.

If you’re hunting for a budget family car that ticks all the right boxes, the XUV 3XO might just be your best bet.

Sumon Das

Sumon Das

I'm a dedicated automobile content writer with a passion for cars, bikes, and everything in between. I specialize in creating engaging, SEO-optimized articles that cover the latest automotive news, in-depth vehicle reviews, comparisons, maintenance tips, and emerging trends in the auto industry.

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