The Mahindra XUV300 comes with a five-star rating from the Global NCAP, a voluntary safety performance assessment programme for new cars. Mahindra promotes the 5-seater compact SUV as the “safest new car in South Africa”. But as important as it is, safety is just one of the many things to consider when buying a new vehicle. Let’s see what other traits Mahindra offers in its XUV300 product range.
Nowadays, it’s difficult to find bold, unique designs in medium and entry-level models. And, although the XUV300 isn’t flashy, its design has character. In the front, a prominent lower grill stands out, surrounded by the LED daytime running lights that seem integrated into the headlights and fog lights in the medium and higher trims.
Even the base models without these features look amazing with the satin black upper and lower grills framed by matching covers for the missing DRL and fog lights. From the sides, all versions feature black fender flares and rock panel covers with glossy black pillars to achieve a floating rood effect, making the XUV300 look lower. The rear spoiler and the LED taillights in the top-notch models complete a design full of captivating curves, well balanced with simpler but interesting linear sections.
Mahindra offers two engine options for the XUV300: a petrol 3-cylinder 1.2-litre turbo engine with 81kW at 5,000 RPM and 200 NM of torque in the range of 2,000 to 3,500 RPM and a 4-cylinder 1.5-litre turbo Diesel engine producing 86kW at 750 RPM and 300 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 2,500 RPM. Both engines are paired with an efficient 6-speed manual transmission. The petrol engine is available in all trim levels, while the diesel engine is offered from the W6 trim level, which is the tier just above the first two most basic trims, the W4 and the W4SE.
Both engines make this compact SUV run smoothly and deliver enough power to make all versions reach an electronically limited speed of 175 km/h. Acceleration is not exhilarating, but it's good enough for an enjoyable driving experience.
Besides, both engines are among the most economical in the category. The petrol engine has an average fuel consumption of 6.1 l/100km and 5.1 for the diesel. These are excellent figures, especially considering today’s elevated fuel prices.
Mahindra has prioritised safety and habitability for the XUV300. The interior is roomy and suitable for five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in all seats. It's noticeable how well the space has been optimised in a vehicle with an overall length of a little less than four meters. The suspension is firm for enhanced handling but soft enough for a comfortable ride.
The design is sober with a dark finish in all trims, and the material quality is above the average for a vehicle of its price range. All trim levels, W4, W4SE, W6, W6SE, and W8, include two airbags (seven in the W8 version), ESP (Electronic Stability Control), disk brakes on the front and rear wheels, ABS with EBD (Emergency Brake force Distribution), collapsable steering column, seat belt pre-tensioners, ISOFIX-compatible child’s safety seats, and automatic door locks. Besides the additional airbags, the W8 trim features dynamic cornering brake control, an emergency braking system, and a hill-start assist. It’s uncommon to see such fantastic safety features on vehicles in this price tier.
From the W4SE trim, only a price tier above the base model, all versions bring a complete infotainment system with a 9” touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The W6, W6SE, and W8 versions include cruise control, satellite navigation, and steering wheel controls. In addition, the W8 includes a dual-zone HVAC system, auto start-stop, sunroof, faux leather seats, LED headlights and taillamps, rain and crepuscular sensors, keyless entry, and a rearview camera, among other wonderful features.
The Mahindra XUV300 is cheaper and offers better value for money than its direct competitors’ models. This compact SUV has a solid construction, which you can tell is made to last. The interior is made of high-quality materials, something it’s not expected to see in vehicles with this price tag, and as you climb up to the most equipped versions, the price of the XUV300 is still considerably lower than other vehicles with similar or inferior specs.
The entry-level W4 1.2T Petrol Mahindra XUV300 starts at R270,099. The top-of-the-range W8 1.2T Petrol is available at R358,099, while the W8 1.5T Diesel goes for R378,099. (Prices correct at time of publication.)
All the above being said, the Mahindra XUV300 is an excellent choice for people looking forward to buying their first SUV or for families seeking a practical and affordable utility vehicle with outstanding safety features, impressive fuel economy, and lots of extras.
If you’re looking to make a smart investment the next time you purchase a car, our recommendation is to do ample online research. Start right here on the MotorHappy blog, where we review at least three new cars every month.
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