Mahindra KUV100 NXT – An ideal option for price-conscious motorists

The Indian automaker Mahindra introduced the compact-mini sport utility vehicle KUV100 in South Africa in 2017 featuring bold stance and sporty looks. The company updated the mini SUV in late 2018 and named it KUV100 NXT, giving its rivals the Renault Kwid and Datsun Go some meaningful competition. Below we highlight why the KUV100 NXT is an ideal option for price-conscious motorists.

Mahindra offers seven variants and two engine options for the KUV100 NXT. The Petrol 1.2L, 3-cylinder is available for the K2+, K2+ #Dare Petrol, K6+, K6 #Dare Petrol and K8+ models while the Diesel 1.2L, 3-cylinder is accessible for K6+ and K8+. The petrol engine generates 82 horsepower @5,500 rpm and 115 Nm of torque, whereas the Diesel mill creates 77 horsepower @3,750 and 190 Nm of torque.

The micro-hybrid technology (engine start/stop on K8+ Only) makes the SUV highly fuel-efficient. As you stop moving, the engine stops as well and resumes operation as you hit the pedal. The automaker says the mFalcon G80 Petrol engine delivers 5.9 L/100 km (Combined Cycle) while the mFalcon D75 Diesel renders 4.4 L/100 km (Combined Cycle) fuel economy.

The aggressive design features start from the new grill with chrome inserts, dual-tone front bumpers with silver skid plate, dual-chamber sunglass-inspired headlamps with LED DRLs, and modern fog lamps with bezel surround. On the side, it has new muscular body lines and flared wheel arches with new side ridge cladding. At the rear, it boasts modern double-barrel clear lens tail lamps, new dual-tone rear bumper with silver skid plate, and new integrated spoiler with aero corners.

The 2020 Mahindra KUV100 NXT comes with new upholstery, piano-black detailing, and a unique temperature control panel on the climate control system. Opt for the flagship K8+, and you get a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and audio, image, and video playback. The K8+ also boasts power windows, air conditioning, foldable rear seats with a centre-mounted armrest, cup holders at the front and rear, underfloor storage bins, a cooled glove box, and front and rear 12V power outlets, remote keyless entry, a new gearshift indicator display, Intellipark reverse parking sensors, and electric folding side mirrors.

What makes the 2020 Mahindra KUV100 NXT stand out is its focus on the safety of passengers. The vehicle comes equipped with dual airbags, corner brake control, ABS and EBD, a collapsible steering column, an engine immobiliser, child safety locks on rear doors, speed-sensing automatic door locks, automated hazard warnings, and above all, anti-slip clips for driver side floor mat. The follow-me-home and lead-me-to-vehicle headlights feature, is impressive.

The price starts at R148,999 for the K2+ Petrol and goes as high as R239,999 for K8+ diesel (prices are VAT inclusive). All variants offer a 3-year/100 000 km standard warranty, 2-year/50 000 km powertrain warranty, and 3-year roadside assistance.

The 2020 Mahindra KUV100 NXT has everything you would expect from a mini SUV; ruggedness, good looks, fuel-efficient engines, and a range of accessories, all at an affordable price. It is a perfect choice for price-conscious motorists here in South Africa.

If you’re looking to compare this SUV to others, be sure to check out our blog. We review at least two cars every month. Click here to read the MotorHappy blog.

Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.group1mahindra.co.za