GOOD FOR: Punchy engines, spacious cabin
LOOK OUT FOR: Clutch wear, AMT gearbox
The Mahindra XUV300 was launched in 2019 in the fiercely contested compact SUV segment, to go up against the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon and Ford EcoSport. It didn’t quite make the splash as its fellow country mate, the Nexon, but it is available with good deals in the used car market, with prices comparable to a new Tata Tiago. Its refined engines, a good features list, safety kit, and an enjoyable driving experience make it a compelling used buy.
The XUV300 has a spacious cabin for a sub-4-metre SUV that can comfortably accommodate five people, including three adults at the back. But the boot space, at 257 litres, is the XUV300’s Achilles heel.
Mahindra XUV300 powertrains
Chopped off rear looks awkward but the alloys and cladding do help aesthetics.
At launch, the XUV300 came with two engine options: a 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel making 117hp and 300Nm, and a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol putting out 110hp and 200Nm. Both engines are available with 6-speed manual and 6-speed AMT gearbox options. In October 2022, Mahindra introduced a third engine option with the TurboSport: a 131hp, 230Nm (250Nm with overboost), 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, direct injection, turbo-petrol, available only with a manual transmission.
All three engines perform well, but the diesel strikes the best balance between performance and efficiency. For frequent outstation trips, the manual gearbox is preferable, while the AMT is more convenient for city driving. However, it won’t be as smooth as other automatic gearboxes. Meanwhile, enthusiasts will find appeal in the TurboSport.
Mahindra XUV300 trims and features
Dash design is straightforward and material quality in general is good.
The XUV300 came in four trims: W4, W6, W8 and W8 (O). Features standard across the range include two airbags, ABS, disc brakes on all wheels, LED tail-lights and power windows. The W8 trim adds dual-zone automatic climate control, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a reverse camera and cruise control, among other features. The range-topping W8 (O) also includes front parking sensors, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a class-leading seven airbags. Mahindra also launched an entry-level W2 variant in August 2023, which missed out on a few features and was offered only in the base petrol-manual powertrain.
It’s worth going for the top-spec W8 (O) for its extensive features, but the W8 should also serve you well, as it still includes all the basics.
Mahindra XUV300 maintainence
Mahindra’s XUV300 has proven to be a reliable SUV, with reports of problems or faults being few. As standard, it came with a 3 year/1,00,000km warranty and buyers could even opt for an extended period for an additional cost. Spare parts are also readily available and is backed by Mahindra’s wide network of service centres and dealerships in the country.
What to look out for in a used Mahindra XUV300?
Clutch wear
Some owners have complained about premature clutch wear on their XUV300s. Take a test drive and check if the car’s clutch pedal feels spongy or springy, and if it takes some effort to slot into gear. Also listen for any squeaking or rattling sounds when you depress the clutch. These are signs of a worn-out clutch plate.
AMT gearbox
Although there have rarely been any problems, it’s worth inspecting if the car you’re looking at is equipped with the AMT automatic gearbox. On a test drive, notice if the car takes off from a standstill easily and without hesitation, and also check that the shifts are not clunky. These are signs of a healthy AMT.
Touchscreen
Owners have also faced glitches with the XUV300’s touchscreen, like the Bluetooth disconnecting randomly. Before buying, pair your phone to the infotainment system and ensure everything works as intended.
Also worth knowing
Mahindra also issued a recall for select units of the XUV300 to inspect and replace a faulty clutch disc assembly, on both petrol and diesel models. Similarly, a recall was also issued to inspect an AC gas leakage from a hose assembly. Before purchasing, enter your car’s VIN on the Mahindra website and check if it was part of the recall and if the work was carried out.
Second hand Mahindra XUV300 price and resale value
| Mahindra XUV300 factfile | |
|---|---|
| Years produced | 2019-2024 |
| Price when new | From Rs 7.90 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Engine | 3-cyl, 1197cc turbo petrols/ 4-cyl, 1497cc diesel |
| Power | 110/ 131 (TGDi)/ 117hp |
| Torque | 200/ 250 (TGDi)/ 300Nm |
| Ground clearance | 180mm |
| Boot space | 257 litres |
The XUV300 is around 5 years old, and with the XUV 3XO now replacing it, you can use this to your advantage to get a good deal on a used model. Remember, irrespective of which one you go for, don’t spend over Rs 8.5 lakh.
Also see:
Buying a used Volkswagen Virtus: what to look out for
