Mahindra has revealed its upcoming sub-4-metre SUV so far referred to by the codename 'S201' as the XUV300. It will launch the new Maruti Vitara Brezza rival in the first half of February 2019.
Speaking at the name reveal, Rajesh Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, M&M, said -
"The XUV300 is an all-new product that is built on a global platform and comes with many segment firsts. The XUV300's head-turning cheetah-inspired design, 'fun-to-drive' performance, first-in-class hi-tech features, best-in-class safety and class defining interiors, make it an exciting and comprehensive package that will find a strong connect and appeal among consumers. We will offer XUV300 in both petrol and diesel options."
While the Mahindra XUV300 is based on the Ssangyong Tivoli, it features several 'Cheetah-inspired' styling elements, which brings it in line with the aesthetics of the XUV500. At the front, the LED DRLs connect the headlights with the fog lights, the front grille has chrome detailing to mimic the six vertical slats that are a signature element of all Mahindra vehicles. The bumper features a hexagonal air dam along with a faux side plate.
On the sides, the Mahindra XUV300 carries 17-inch machined alloy wheels, ORVMs with traffic indicators and blacked-out pillars. The rear-end is characterised by wraparound LED tail lamps, dual-tone bumper with faux skid plate and a roof-mounted spoiler. In design, the interior of the new SUV mimics that of the Ssangyong Tivoli to a great extent. That said, it features a lighter colour tone and luminescence silver and gloss-black trim combination in the centre console for a more premium look.
The Mahindra XUV300 features segment-first dual-zone automatic climate control and seven airbags. Furthermore, it will offer a touchscreen infotainment unit that is likely to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an electric sunroof. Key safety features will include all-wheel disc brakes, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchorage and front and rear parking sensors with a rear-view camera.
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The Mahindra XUV300 will be available in both petrol and diesel engines, which, as per the company, will deliver segment-leading torque outputs. While the company is yet to announce the engine specifications, reports say that it will offer a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel motor. Both options will come mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. An electric powertrain will be introduced by mid-2020.
The Mahindra XUV300 will be produced at the company's Nashik-based facility and is likely to have a base price of somewhere between INR 7.5-8 lakh (ex-showroom). It will rival the likes of Maruti Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon and Ford EcoSport.
