Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Tata Nexon: Battle Of The Indian Sub-4 Metre SUVs

The newly launched Mahindra XUV 3XO has spiced up the sub-compact SUV segment with its refreshed design and unique features. With a number of rivals in this segment, it receives tough competition from the Tata Nexon, which was also updated recently. Here’s how both these subcompact SUVs stack up against each other on paper, before we bring out a detailed drive comparison of them both. 

Dimensions

It is pretty evident from the table above that the Tata Nexon is longer than the Mahindra XUV 3XO and gets a larger boot space and higher ground clearance. The XUV 3XO is wider, taller, and has a longer wheelbase. 

Powertrain & Mileage

The Mahindra XUV 3XO and Tata Nexon both provide options of 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. However, Mahindra offers two variations of the turbo-petrol engine, the second one equipped with direct injection for enhanced performance.

Similar to the Mahindra XUV300, the 3XO boasts higher torque across its engine range than the Nexon. Moreover, it provides more powerful turbo-petrol and diesel engine options. While the Nexon offers four transmission choices with its turbo-petrol engine, including both AMT and dual-clutch automatics, the XUV 3XO offers one manual option and a new torque converter automatic. Both SUVs offer manual and AMT options with their diesel engines.

Regarding claimed fuel efficiency figures, the Mahindra 3XO's turbo-petrol engines outperform the Nexon's turbo-petrol engine. However, the Tata Nexon's diesel engine promises significantly higher mileage than Mahindra's counterpart.

Feature Highlights

When comparing standout features, the Mahindra XUV 3XO edges slightly above the Tata Nexon. This advantage comes mainly because of the inclusion of a segment-first panoramic sunroof, ADAS suite, and dual-zone climate control. However, the Nexon maintains its own strengths with a more futuristic LED lighting setup both inside and outside the vehicle, ventilated front seats, and a premium 9-speaker JBL audio system.

In areas such as the infotainment unit, digital driver’s display, airbags, and 360-degree camera, both sub-4 metre SUVs appear evenly matched on paper. Additionally, it's essential to consider reports of reliability issues with the Tata Nexon and concerns regarding the quality of after sales service. If Mahindra's new 3XO can steer clear of these issues, the decision between these two cars would become significantly easier.

Prices

All prices are ex-showroom

According to the price table, the Mahindra XUV 3XO emerges as a more cost-effective option when compared to the Tata Nexon, boasting a lower price tag at both the entry level (by Rs 76,000) and in its top-end variants. The XUV 3XO lineup consists of 9 variants, while the Nexon offers a wider selection with 12 major variants along with an additional Dark edition. 

The XUV 3XO, with its updates, now gives an even more tough competition to the Tata Nexon. Competitors of both of them in the subcompact SUV segment include the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor and Kia Sonet.